Looking north along the ridge

There are a few places left on this trip for those interested. Dates 3rd to 10th September. Alternative dates on request throughout the year (except July and August).

Although there is no rock climbing as such, the standard of the scrambling is high and a rope is used for security purposes at times. A good head for heights is necessary! Detours are possible in some places if easier alternatives are preferred. Early starts are necessary due to the afternoon heat, but this ensures an early finish to enjoy other delights of Mallorca.

We have 5 fantastic tours in our itinerary:

(1) The Cavall Bernat Ridge (see below)
(2) The peak of Massenella
(3) The Torrente de Pareis gorge
(4) The peak of Tomir
(5) The Mortitx gorge

More information on each of these is available at Mallorca scrambling and walking holidays. Information about the birding opportunities. Please use our contact form to make any enquiries.

Highlights

The Cavall Bernat Ridge

The Cavall Bernat main tower

A highlight. Within walking distance from our base in Puerto Pollensa. A jagged “Skye” type ridge rising 350m vertically from the sea. The first tower provides a bravery test, but proves to be simpler than it looks when the rock is actually to hand. The rough sharp limestone makes for slow going along the ridge crest. After passing the “window”, a feature of the ridge, we arrive at the descent of the double tower.

This is the crux and the inexperienced or nervous may prefer the security of a rope as they downclimb to the easy col beyond. From  here on the going is much easier although time consuming. Great views to Cala San Vicente to the right and Puerto Pollensa to the left.

For the birdwatchers it is very likely that you will spot the Elonoras Falcon as it swoops in and out of the ridge crest.

High quality ridge scrambling

On arrival at the final peak on the ridge we drop rightwards and pick up a faint path that leads to the flat col and a return to the port and a welcome beer and swim.

7 hours round trip. Scrambling grade 3+. An unforgettable excursion not to be missed!

The Peak of Massenella

A great mountain day walking past Gorg Blau and up through forested areas breaking out onto open hillsides in a lovely valley. Above you are almost certain to see black vultures and maybe griffon vultures riding the thermals.

From a high pass we take an exposed traverse path up to the summit. A rope may be required here for a short section but apart from that it is excellent scrambling terrain of moderate difficulty.

Southwards from Massenella

The lofty summit provides good all round views and a welcome break before we head down the south ridge which gives us more scrambling opportunities for whatever grade you wish. All on quality limestone. A final sting in the tail exists before rejoining the ascent route at the forest.

This is a long day. 8 hours. Scrambling grade 1/2 but a short section of 3+.

The Torrente de Pareis gorge

For variety we always include this gorge scramble. We go from bottom to top. Start at Sa Colobra and and at Escorca. Short sections of scrambling amid wild spectacular gorge scenery before the final push to the waiting cars.

Dramatic scenery. Good grade 2 scrambling in places. 5.5 hrs.

The peak of Tomir

Descending from Tomir

A personal favourite and a fine, friendly mountain. Easy access and a short steep ascent mean the summit can be reached in just a hour 15 minutes after parking the car at Binifaldo. A short easy grade 1 step adds interest to the ascent. Great expansive views northward towards the Formentor peninsular.

For the birdwatchers the vultures accompany us throughout the day, sometimes coming quite close.

We normally descend NE towards the Col del Puig de Ca and then round via Aucanella. About 5hrs.

The Mortitx gorge

Another fine scrambling day but in more gentler surrounding than the Torrente de Pareis. Pathless and difficult, confusing terrain leads down to the coast and the start of the route back up the gorge. Some sections of scrambling and one exposed traverse above some rock pools make this an interesting and enjoyable day. 5 hours.

From Golden Eagle

Who?
Ian Williams is the “heart and soul” of Birdwatch Alpujarras. His enthusiasm for our feathered friends knows no bounds. He has vast experience of birdwatching throughout Europe, but especially in the Alpujarras, where he now lives, and in his native UK.

Kiersten Rowland is resident in the Alpujarras and looks after the website and administration functions. She also helps support Ian on birdwatching tours throughout the region. Contact her if you have relevant and related information you wish to be included on the site.

Both are passionate about the area and it’s birdlife.

The Birds
Resident raptors include Golden and Bonelli’s Eagles and these are joined by large numbers of Booted and Short Toed Eagles over the breeding season. All three of southern Spain’s “exotic” species, namely, Hoopoe, Rollers and Bee-Eaters, breed locally and are seen regularly. Golden orioles nest in and around the village. Chats and Thrushes include the Northen, Black and Black Eared Wheatear. Black Redstart and Blue Rock thrushes. Other seasonal visitors of note include Great Grey and Woodchat Shrikes, with Subalpine Warblers in the spring. Local woodland brings frequent sightings of Crossbills and Crested Tits. Firecrests are another local speciality.

From Bee-Eater

The Tours
They offer guided tours in 4×4 transport in small groups to ensure we get the best the region can provide. Recent days have brought great sightings of Eagle Owl, Goshawk and Iberian Yellow Wagtails. There is always something fantastic to see!

The Website
You will find much information about the tours and birdlife on the site. Also they report any news or frequent sightings. Much of the site is “interactive” and they encourage you to assist with any information you can provide.

Contact:
Via website: www.birdwatchalpujarras.com

A new company has been started in the Alpujarras running Birdwatching Tours. Birdwatch Alpujarras is run by experienced enthusiasts Ian Williams and Steve Edmonds. They are based in their home town of Lanjaron, ideally located for day tours to either the coastal wetlands, moorlands or high mountain environments.

The Alpujarras offer some of Spain’s most spectacular birdlife. Ian and Steve are passionate about the area and it’s birdlife. They offer guided tours in 4×4 transport in small groups to ensure they get the best the region can provide. Recent days have brought great sightings of Eagle Owl, Goshawk and Iberian Yellow Wagtails. There is always something fantastic to see!

You will find much information about the tours and birdlife on their website. Also they report any news or frequent sightings. Much of the site is “interactive” and they encourage you to assist with any information you can provide. You can keep up to date with recent sightings from this news feed.