Guidebook to walking the GR221 Drystone Route (Ruta de Pedra en Sec) traversing Mallorca's Serra de Tramuntana between Pollença and Andratx. Following rock, paved paths and mule tracks between welcoming villages, the 140km (87 mile) trek is in 10 day stages and showcases the island's forests, mountains and drystone structures
Cicerone says:
This guidebook describes the GR221, a 140km (87 mile) long-distance trail through northwestern Mallorca, from Port d'Andratx to Pollença. Also known as the 'Ruta de Pedra en Sec' ('the Drystone Route'), the GR221 is a celebration of Mallorca's limestone heritage, taking in many historic drystone structures as it traverses the rocky peaks of the Serra de Tramuntana. Following old stone-paved paths and mule trails, it showcases the region's beautiful landscape of mountains, forests and cultivated terraces, as well as its spectacular coastline.
The GR221 can be walked in 1–2 weeks, although the guide also covers 3 alternative start-points and 3 alternative finishes, which would allow for a shorter trek. The main route is presented in 10 stages of 8.5–20.5km (5–13 miles), with a handful of optional detours to bag neighbouring summits. Detailed route description is accompanied by 1:25,000 mapping and inspirational photography, plus a wealth of information on local points of interest. Accommodation and travel are also thoroughly covered: the trail boasts good transport links and plentiful facilities on route, with accommodation in welcoming mountain villages and the occasional refugi. A comprehensive introduction offers the opportunity to discover more about the region's diverse plants and wildlife and unique history and culture, and an English-Spanish-Catalan glossary can be found in the appendix.
With a favourable climate and stunning scenery, the Serra de Tramuntana has much to tempt the walker. The GR221 Drystone Route represents an ideal way to explore this fascinating World Heritage Site.
For nearly 50 years Cicerone have been producing guidebooks on recognised treks, regions, areas and general tips for hikers.
We have used them countless times and they've always provided excellent insight and knowledge that you only get through experience, giving you the edge to make your trip a success and more enjoyable too.
If you're a gram counter you can easily remove sections of the book to take with you making your own ultra-lightweight guidebook with only the essential sections that you require.
Possible nearly all year round, but it can be very hot in summer, while rare winter snowfall can cover the paths on the higher parts.
Centres
Port d'Andratx, Sant Elm, Estellencs, Banyalbufar, Esporles, Valldemossa, Deià, Sóller, Tossals Verds, Lluc, Pollença, Peguera, Calvià, Puigpunyent, Alaró, Caimari
Difficulty
Mostly on clear paths and tracks, but some of these can be rough and stony underfoot, and occasionally steep. Some parts require careful route-finding, though many stretches have been signposted and waymarked. The whole route can be completed by anyone with a little previous long-distance walking experience
Must See
Serra de Tramuntana, Sa Dragonera, La Trapa, Puig de Galatzó, Puig des Teix, La Granja, Vall de Sóller, L'Ofre, Cúber, Tossals Verds, Puig de Massanella, Lluc Monastery, Puig de María, Castell d'Alaró
Edition: Second
Number of pages: 3216
Size: 17.2 x 11.6 x 1.3cm
Weighs 240g
Contents
Introduction Serra de Tramuntana GR221 – Ruta de Pedra en Sec Brief history of Mallorca Plants and wildlife Travel to Mallorca Travel around Mallorca When to go Accommodation Language Money Food and drink Water Walking the GR221 Emergencies Using this guide GR221 – The Drystone Route Stage 1 Port d’Andratx to Sant Elm Stage 2 Sant Elm to Ses Fontanelles Stage 3 Ses Fontanelles to Estellencs Stage 4 Estellencs to Esporles Stage 5 Esporles to Valldemossa Stage 6 Valldemossa to Deià Stage 7 Deià to Sóller Stage 8 Sóller to Tossals Verds Stage 9 Tossals Verds to Lluc Stage 10 Lluc to Pollença and Puig de Maria Alternatives Alternative start A s’Arracó to Ses Fontanelles Alternative start B es Capdellà to Estellencs Alternative start C Calvià to Estellencs Alternative finish D Sóller to Cala Tuent Alternative finish E Tossals Verds to Alaró or Orient Alternative finish F Lluc to Caimari via GR222
Appendix A Route summary table Appendix B Glossary Appendix C Public transport Appendix D Accommodation Appendix E Useful contacts
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