Es Caragoli from Valldemossa
This circular walk starts in Valldemossa, a beautifully preserved Mallorcan village and leads to a trail along a ridge with magnificent views over part of the western coastline. It offers an insight into the life of one of the island’s famous residents, Archduke Ludwig Salvador, and the families who made their living in the mountain forests. It has the option of an extension to the peak of Puig des Teix.
The walk
Shortly after arriving in Valldemossa we enter the Muntanya del Voltor, a preserved area, and follow an uphill path. We ascend through a forest of holm oak trees and pause to catch a glimpse of Palma and its bay. In a sheltered valley we see evidence of the people who once lived there: stone homes, a lime kiln and a number of charcoal hearths. The guide will explain the history surrounding them.
Near the top of the valley we stop at the cave of the hermit monk who lived there about 260 years ago. There is the chance to explore inside the cave. Shortly after we join the Archduke’s trail. The purpose-built stone path snakes along the ridge for nearly 2 kilometres. It towers high above the coastline offering unrivalled views as far as Port Soller to the north, Sa Foradada and Puig de Galatzó to the south. Looking to the east we see part of the central island plain and Palma. The highest point reached on the path is es Caragoli at 945 metres.
Optional Extension
From Pla des Aritges it is possible to follow the GR221 to Puig Gros and, bearing left to Puig des Teix at 1064m which marked the northerly limit of the Archduke’s lands. We retrace the path to Pla de ses Aritges. The extension adds 4km to the distance. At the end of the ridge the trail winds its way across a rocky lunar landscape and into holm oak forest. We reach the Mirador de ses Basses, a rocky viewpoint, which makes an excellent stop for lunch. We descend the mountainside and by early afternoon we complete our return to Valldemossa where a welcome drink awaits.
“Fantastic experience with a guide who knows his way!”
Details
Grade: Medium
Distance: 12km (+ 4km extension)
Ascent/Descent: 650m
Duration: 4hrs (+ 1 hour)
Terrain: Mostly paths and tracks with stony sections
Checklist: 1.5 litre water, food/snack, hiking shoes/boots, sunscreen and hat or cap.
Price: 30€ per person. Minimum number for group 4.
For private tour, price on application.