The main route through the Sierra de Tramuntana mountain range in Mallorca is the Dry-Stone Route, devised as a long hiking trail (GR-221) covering a distance of 135,26 km, appropriately signposted and approved by the Spanish Federation of Climbing and Mountain Sports, with a backup of a network of publicly-run hostels located in refurbished houses owned by the Consell de Mallorca. The trail is divided into 8 stages with ten variants. 

As the name suggests, the Dry Stone Route is characterized by its dry stone walls, which have been meticulously constructed over centuries by local farmers to divide land and create terraces for agriculture. Admire these impressive structures as you hike. 

Hiking the entire route of the GR 221 in Mallorca is a challenge, but anyone who has done it would love to do it again immediately! It is considered one of the most beautiful long-distance hiking trails in Europe. The eye is presented with coastal sections, alpine-looking cliffs and peaks, enchanted holm oak forests and an unmanageable number of natural stone walls. On the way you will come across stone villages, old charcoal burners and threshing floors. You’ll find traces of the island’s history; you’ll enjoy the Mediterranean cuisine, and you’ll watch the sunset by the sea. 

This stage starts in the quaint village of  Es Capdellà, surrounded by olive groves and lush countryside. Take a moment to explore its narrow streets and traditional architecture before setting off on the trail. Following its signs, the GR 221 winds through the countryside. As you ascend into the mountains, you'll pass through pine forests and rocky terrain, with occasional views of the coastline below. As you ascend, you'll have the opportunity to summit Puig de Galatzó, a peak offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the Mediterranean Sea. The ascent can be steep in parts, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views. The stage concludes in the picturesque village of Estellencs, nestled in the mountains overlooking the sea. Wander through its charming streets lined with stone houses, and perhaps stop for a meal at one of the local restaurants serving fresh seafood dishes. 

Located between the sea and mountains, the terraces of Estellencs and  Banyalbufar, with their pools, fountains, and paths rooted in Islamic origins, and developed harmoniously across the passage of history,  undoubtedly constitute one of the Route´s most appealing dry stone landscapes. At the other end, the buildings of the town of Esporles maintain the character of an industrious town, in a setting where the  Torrent de Sant Pere divides it into two and takes center stage. From one end to another, the old royal roads go around La Mola de  Planícia and the Moletó de sa Granja and offer glimpses of their century-old past. 

Grade: Average

Time required: 4h50′

Length: 13,4 km

Total Ascent/ Descent: +607/- 549 m

Starting Point: Esporles (187m)

Finishing Point: Valldemossa (413m)

Grade: Average

Time required: 3h30′

Length: 9,2 km

Total Ascent/ Descent: +597/-374 m 

Starting Point: Valldemossa (413m)

Finishing Point: Can Boi Refuge, Deià (125m)

Grade: Average

Time required: 4h30′

Length: 9,6 km

Total Ascent/ Descent: +513/- 842 m

Starting Point: Can Boi Refuge, Deià (125m)

Finishing Point: Sóller (34m)

Grade: Average

Time required: 4h

Length: 13 km 

Total Ascent/ Descent: +292/- 440 m

Starting Point: Sóller (34m)

Finishing Point: Tossals Verds Refuge (525m)

Grade: Difficult

Time required: 6h30′

Length: 17,7 km

Total Ascent/ Descent: +1,072/- 554 m

Starting Point: Tossals Verds Refuge (525m)

Finishing Point: Lluc Monastery (480m)

Grade: Average

Time required: 6h

Length: 14 km 

Total Ascent/Descent: +830/- 870 m

Starting Point: Lluc Monastery (480m)

Finishing Point: Pont Romà, Pollença (50m)

Grade: Average

Time required: 5h

Length: 15,6 km

Total Ascent/ Descent: +330/-760 m