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.

Scrambling in Mallorca

The Tramuntana mountains of Mallorca are an ideal walking and scrambling destination for those mountain lovers wanting wild mountain scenery, dramatic views and adventurous challenges.

Mallorca was my first introduction to Spanish walking. I first went there in the early 1990′s and was amazed at the scope and variety on offer. I revisited and took walking groups there until the delights of mainland Spain and in particular the Sierra Nevada took over. Last week I returned after a 10 year absence and renewed my acquaintance with the glories of this Mediterranean island.

I believe the best base to be at Puerto Pollensa in the north. This gives easy access to some of the finest walking and scrambling spots. Accommodation is plentiful and reasonably priced, outside the summer and busy times. We can recommend some accommodation there if you are planning your own visit.

Suggested guide book is the excellent “Walking In Mallorca” by June Parker (Cicerone Press). Here are some of our own favourite walks and scrambles:

The Cavell Bernat ridge

On the Cavell Bernat ridge

Quite simply the finest ridge on the island. Similar to the best Skye has to offer yet only 352m above sea level and accessible in under an hour from the outskirts of Puerto Pollensa. No car necessary. Imagine if you could reach the Skye ridge in 45 minutes!

The ridge is for experienced scramblers or rock climbers only. You need a good head for heights and some route finding ability. The rock is sound and sharp but makes for very arduous and slow going. Dramatic views in all directions and especially vertically down to the sea below!

From north to south we usually take a short rope to safeguard  the tricky descent of the double tower (see slideshow below). The crossing of the “window” ledge is spectacular and the initial climb up to the first tower much easier than it looks from the col below.

Much more description is unnecessary. Follow the crest as far as your courage and/or ability will allow. 5hrs. The full ridge from north to south is strictly for suitably equipped rock climbers.

Massanella (1367m)

Looking towards Cuber s.face Massanella

The highest accessible point in Mallorca. A fine peak but better ascended by the quieter route in from Almallutx near Cuber to the south. Long approach gives access to a small col that requires some easy scrambling and then the magnificent south face of the mountain. Few others are seen on this route.

Here you can choose the standard you wish to climb or scramble at (see slideshow below). Make your way up various rock slabs and walls to the summit ridge and the south peak. There is a way to the right for those who find it all a bit unnerving. A short walk and you reach the main summit point.

Descend via the notch some 30m south of the summit. Steep and exposed but feels secure within a crack system (see slideshow below). A rope may be helpful for the nervous here. After that an exposed traverse and short gully lead to easy slopes above the Col des Prat. Return south and rejoin the ascent route after a fine but long mountain day. 6hrs.

Tomir (1103m)

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. Great expansive views northward towards the Formentor peninsular.

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

Torrente de Pareis

The Torrente de Pareis gorge

To vary your scrambling holiday try this gorge walk/scramble. Start at Sa Colobra and and at Escorca. Great if two cars or a friendly driver available, but the latest bus times do not easily mean a return can be made to Sa Colobra. If not possible then ascend and descend the gorge the same way. Twice the fun!

Dramatic scenery. Good scrambling in places. Do not attempt after rain!

About 4 to 5 hours return trip up and down the gorge

Guided Scrambling and Walking

Spanish Highs Mountain Guides run walking and scrambling holidays to Mallorca on demand.

A note on Birdwatching in Mallorca

Marsh Harrier at S'Alburfera

During our week’s wanderings we came across some fantastic bird life. Highlights included:
Tomir – Black Vultures
Massanella – Black vultures, Griffon Vultures
Cavell Bernat – Eleonoras Falcon
S’Alberfura – Marsh Harrier, Osprey, Hen Harrier

Any good bird guide will suggest Mallorca as an ideal birdwatching venue.

Birdwatch Alpujarras are running birdwatching excursions and holidays to Mallorca.

Photos

A slideshow of our latest trip includes some of the main scrambling areas and the descent route off the double tower on the Cavell Bernat which can be hard to locate. Also photo of the south face and descent from the notch on Massanella.