Yes, there are several excellent hiking trails within a 2-hour drive from Palma, and many are located in the stunning Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. Here are some hiking options suitable for a group of your size and age, all relatively close to Palma:
1. Torrent de Pareis (Sa Calobra)
- Distance from Palma: 1.5 hours by car
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (depending on section)
- Duration: 3-5 hours (round trip)
- Description: One of Majorca’s most iconic hikes, Torrent de Pareis takes you through a dramatic gorge, ending at the beautiful beach of Sa Calobra. The hike can be rocky and requires some scrambling, but it’s a rewarding adventure through stunning limestone cliffs. It might be more challenging for some in your group, so you can explore part of the trail and then relax on the beach.
2. Cúber Reservoir to Tossals Verds Refuge
- Distance from Palma: 1 hour by car
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 3-4 hours (round trip)
- Description: Starting at the beautiful Cúber Reservoir, this trail offers breathtaking views of the Tramuntana Mountains and leads to the Tossals Verds Refuge. It’s a relatively easy hike with some elevation gain, but the scenery makes it worth it. The refuge is a great spot to stop for a break.
3. Camí de s’Arxiduc (Archduke’s Trail) – Valldemossa
- Distance from Palma: 30 minutes by car
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 3-4 hours (loop)
- Description: This trail begins in the charming village of Valldemossa and offers panoramic views of both the coast and mountains. The Archduke’s Trail was created in the 19th century and is known for its scenic beauty. It’s a good mix of forest paths and open views over the sea.
4. Puig de Maria (Pollensa)
- Distance from Palma: 50 minutes by car
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Duration: 1-2 hours (round trip)
- Description: This short but steep hike leads to the top of Puig de Maria, where you’ll find a small monastery and incredible views of Pollensa and the surrounding area. It’s a relatively quick hike but offers great rewards for the effort, making it perfect for a half-day outing.
5. Sa Foradada (Deià)
- Distance from Palma: 40 minutes by car
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Duration: 2-3 hours (round trip)
- Description: This trail is relatively easy and takes you from the village of Deià to the iconic rock formation of Sa Foradada, which juts into the Mediterranean. The path offers beautiful coastal views, and you can stop for a meal or drink at the Mirador de Sa Foradada restaurant after your hike.
6. Cami de Castell d’Alaró
- Distance from Palma: 30-45 minutes by car
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 3-4 hours (round trip)
- Description: This hike takes you to the ruins of the ancient Castell d’Alaró, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valley and mountains. It’s a bit of a climb but manageable, and there’s a restaurant at the top where you can rest.
7. Es Grau (Puigpunyent)
- Distance from Palma: 30 minutes by car
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 4-5 hours (round trip)
- Description: Starting from the village of Puigpunyent, this hike leads to the peak of Es Grau. The trail passes through pine forests and offers wonderful views of the Tramuntana mountains and the coastline.
These trails range from easy to moderate, and you can choose based on the fitness levels of your group. Additionally, all of them are within two hours of Palma, making them perfect for a day trip. You can bring snacks, water, and other essentials, and some trails even have cafés or restaurants along the way.
traditional Mallorcan dishes we might try preparing
Breakfast
- Ensaimada
- A spiral-shaped pastry dusted with powdered sugar, perfect with morning coffee.
Lunch and Dinner
- Pa amb Oli
- Simple and delicious: bread with olive oil, tomato, and a variety of toppings such as cheese, ham, or tuna.
- Tumbet
- A vegetable dish with layers of potatoes, eggplants, and red bell peppers, topped with tomato sauce.
- Sobrassada
- A spreadable pork sausage that can be enjoyed on bread or as a stuffing for other dishes.
- Frito Mallorquín
- A stir-fry of lamb or pork liver with potatoes, onions, and peppers.
- Arròs Brut
- A hearty rice dish made with meat (usually chicken, rabbit, or pork) and seasonal vegetables in a flavorful broth.
- Coca de Trampó
- A flatbread topped with a mixture of tomatoes, green peppers, and onions.
- Sopa Mallorquina
- A rustic soup with vegetables and thin slices of bread.
Tapas and Sides
- Albóndigas
- Meatballs often served in a rich tomato sauce.
- Calamares a la Romana
- Deep-fried squid rings, great as a side or appetizer.
- Pimientos de Padrón
- Small green peppers fried and sprinkled with sea salt, some of which can be quite spicy!
- Escalivada
- Roasted vegetables such as eggplant, bell peppers, and onions, served with olive oil.
Desserts
- Gató de Almendra
- An almond cake often served with almond ice cream.
- Greixonera
- A custard-like dessert made with leftover ensaimadas.
Drinks
- Hierbas Mallorquinas
- A local herbal liqueur, typically enjoyed after meals.
- Sangria
- A refreshing punch made with red wine, fruits, and a touch of brandy.
Shopping for Ingredients
- Local Markets: Visit local markets like Mercat de l’Olivar in Palma for fresh produce, seafood, and local products.
- Supermarkets: Large supermarkets like Eroski and Mercadona will have all the essentials.
- Specialty Shops: Look for butcher shops (carnicerías) and bakeries (panaderías) for high-quality meats and breads.