An ancient olive tree points its weathered arms back down towards the soil it grew from, 1000 years ago, when it was planted by Moorish settlers. A cobblestone path snakes its way up the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, a path trodden by charcoal burners, farmers, pilgrims, and those in search of the true essence of Mallorca.

Here, perched above the island’s stunning coastline, our expert guides at Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa offer two day hiking routes from the town of Biniaraix. The first of these is Barranc de Biniaraix, an ancient path that takes an hour and forty five minutes to complete – perfect for a morning’s stroll. For more experienced hikers, our expert guide can lead you on a second, slightly longer walk, extending out from the Barranc de Biniaraix into a loop higher into the mountains, providing even more scenic views looking back across the coast.

Explore ancient roads

Starting from the town of Biniaraix, a former Moorish stronghold whose name comes from the Arabic for pirate’s son, the Barranc de Biniaraix path leads to the old country house of Ca’Silles, also known as Can Silles, high up in the mountains.

The trail is a cobblestone path referred to as cami de pedra en sec – or drystone way – a reference to the local drystone construction method used for centuries to build terraces, paths, and shelters without using any mortar. The Serra de Tramuntana is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, honouring the cultural significance of the skill of drystone walling, a traditional technique.

Discover vibrant flora and fauna

Depending on the time of year, you'll be treated to a burst of various wildflowers. In spring, you can admire the delicate white-pink flowers and marble green stems of the Balearic Cyclamen. In summer, the air is filled with the pleasant aroma of wild thyme, lavender, and rosemary. When autumn arrives, the landscape is adorned with pink flowers from the strawberry trees.

As you look up to the sky, keep an eye out for the graceful Eleonara’s Falcon or the Black Vulture, Europe's largest bird of prey, soaring with its impressive 2.8-meter wingspan, skillfully riding the warm currents and patrolling the heavens. Closer to the ground, you may hear the melodic chirping of the Balearic Warbler, the gentle buzz of local grasshoppers, or the sound of water splashing from the nearby Biniaraix ravine, following the path. If you're fortunate enough, you might catch a glimpse of the elusive Algerian hedgehog or the swift stone martin, about the size of a cat, as it darts through the tall grass.

The rocky scrub landscape is adorned with rows of lush green vines, charming white stone churches topped with terracotta roofs, and orchards filled with sturdy, rugged trees whose broad leaves provide shelter from the scorching sun.

The destination

Eventually, you will reach Ca’Silles, a traditional stone-built country house perched high in the mountains, with spectacular views over the rugged landscape. Here you can find an array of traditional Majorcan gourmet products including the region’s famed olive oil. Here you turn back, or you can extend the walk by carrying on up, potentially visiting the Cúber and Gorg Blau reservoirs.

Our sanctuary overlooking Port de Sóller is perfectly placed for exploring Mallorca’s stunning coastline and vibrant coastal towns. Our concierge team will be delighted to help you book your dream escape to Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa.