This guidebook describes the GR221, a 140km (87 mile) long-distance trail through northwestern Mallorca, from Port d'Andratx to Pollenca. Also known as the 'Ruta de Pedra en Sec' ('the Drystone Route'), the GR221 is a celebration of Mallorca's limestone heritage, taking in many historic drystone structures as it traverses the rocky peaks of the Serra de Tramuntana. Following old stone-paved paths and mule trails, it showcases the region's beautiful landscape of mountains, forests and cultivated terraces, as well as its spectacular coastline. The GR221 can be walked in 1-2 weeks, although the guide also covers 3 alternative start-points and 3 alternative finishes, which would allow for a shorter trek. The main route is presented in 10 stages of 8.5-20.5km (5-13 miles), with a handful of optional detours to bag neighbouring summits. Detailed route description is accompanied by 1:25,000 mapping and inspirational photography, plus a wealth of information on local points of interest. Accommodation and travel are also thoroughly covered: the trail boasts good transport links and plentiful facilities on route, with accommodation in welcoming mountain villages and the occasional 'refugi'. A comprehensive introduction offers the opportunity to discover more about the region's diverse plants and wildlife and unique history and culture, and an English-Spanish-Catalan glossary can be found in the appendix. With a favourable climate and stunning scenery, the Serra de Tramuntana has much to tempt the walker. The GR221 Drystone Route represents an ideal way to explore this fascinating World Heritage Site.
Map key Overview map Introduction Serra de Tramuntana GR221 - Ruta de Pedra en Sec Brief history of Mallorca Plants and wildlife Travel to Mallorca Travel around Mallorca When to go Accommodation Language Money Food and drink Water Walking the GR221 Emergencies Using this guide GR221 - The Drystone Route Stage 1 Port d'Andratx to Sant Elm Stage 2 Sant Elm to Ses Fontanelles Stage 3 Ses Fontanelles to Estellencs Stage 4 Estellencs to Esporles Stage 5 Esporles to Valldemossa Stage 6 Valldemossa to Deia Stage 7 Deia to Soller Stage 8 Soller to Tossals Verds Stage 9 Tossals Verds to Lluc Stage 10 Lluc to Pollenca and Puig de Maria Alternatives Alternative start A s'Arraco to Ses Fontanelles Alternative start B es Capdella to Estellencs Alternative start C Calvia to Estellencs Alternative finish D Soller to Cala Tuent Alternative finish E Tossals Verds to Alaro or Orient Alternative finish F Lluc to Caimari via GR222 Appendix A Route summary table Appendix B Glossary Appendix C Public transport Appendix D Accommodation Appendix E Useful contacts
Activities
walking, trekking, long distance
Seasons
Possible nearly all year round, but it can be very hot in summer, while rare winter snowfall can cover the paths on the higher parts.
Centres
Port dAndratx, Sant Elm, Estellencs, Banyalbufar, Esporles, Valldemossa, Deià, Sóller, Tossals Verds, Lluc, Pollença, Peguera, Calvià, Puigpunyent, Alaró, Caimari
Difficulty
Mostly on clear paths and tracks, but some of these can be rough and stony underfoot, and occasionally steep. Some parts require careful route-finding, though many stretches have been signposted and waymarked. The whole route can be completed by anyone with a little previous long-distance walking experience.
Must See
Serra de Tramuntana, Sa Dragonera, La Trapa, Puig de Galatzó, Puig des Teix, La Granja, Vall de Sóller, LOfre, Cúber, Tossals Verds, Puig de Massanella, Lluc Monastery, Puig de María, Castell dAlaró
