I hiked Puig de Galatzó from both Estellencs and Puigpunyent. Here’s why this epic trail should be on your Mallorca hiking list.

Puig de Galatzó is one of my favorite hikes on Mallorca. The views are incredible, the trail is peaceful, and it gives you that satisfying mix of effort and reward. I’ve done it more than once, and it’s the kind of hike that always delivers: a good challenge, a sense of escape, and a serious payoff at the top.

In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know before heading out — how to get there, two routes to the top, what to expect on the trail, and a few personal notes from my own hikes.

Welcome to your next adventure!

Puig de Galatzó Trail Details

Trail Overview

There are two main trails to reach the peak of Galatzó – one short, and one longer. Here’s an overview of the two trails:

Feature	Puigpunyent Route	Estellencs Route
Type	Out-and-back	Loop
Distance	~5 km	~10 km
Duration	2.5–3.5 hours	4.5–5.5 hours
Elevation Gain	~500 meters	~730 meters
Difficulty	Moderate – short but steep in places	Moderate – longer, sustained ascent
Starting Point	Near Puigpunyent	Near Estellencs
Trail Markings	Sparse – use GPS/cairns	Partial – some signposts and cairns
Scenery	Rocky paths, forest, panoramic summit views	Varied terrain, forested sections, sea views
Best For	Quick hikes, sunrise/sunset, limited time	Longer hikes, full-day adventures, seasoned hikers
Facilities	None – bring all supplies	None – bring all supplies
Parking	Limited roadside parking	Limited roadside parking

Puig de Galatzó Hiking Trail Map

This map shows the approximate hiking trail. The purple path is the short route from Puigpunyent, and the red path is the loop trail from Estellencs.

You can also find a downloadable map of the shorter route and longer route on Alltrails.

Which Trail Is Right for You?

If you’re short on time or prefer a shorter but steeper adventure, the Puigpunyent route is a great choice. It’s perfect for sunrise hikes, cooler days, or if you’re combining the hike with other plans in the area.

On the other hand, if you’re after a more scenic and challenging experience, the Estellencs route is truly rewarding. With more varied terrain, coastal glimpses, and fewer people on the trail, it’s ideal for hikers who enjoy solitude and don’t mind a bit of a workout.

Both trails lead to the same incredible summit — and no matter which one you choose, the views from the top of Puig de Galatzó are nothing short of spectacular.

Safety Tips

• Start early: Especially in warmer months. There’s no shade near the summit, and the heat can be intense by midday.
• Bring enough water: There are no water sources on the trail — carry at least 1.5 to 2 liters per person.
• Wear proper footwear: The trail is rocky and uneven in places, especially near the top. Good grip is essential.
• Check the weather: Avoid hiking in strong winds or fog — the summit ridge is exposed.
• Download a map: Trail markings can be sparse in sections. Use GPS or download an offline map (I use Maps.me)
• Let someone know your plans: Especially if hiking solo or during off-season.
• Watch for goats: Wild goats are common and harmless, but can be startling if you meet them on a narrow path!

Getting There

By Car

Puigpunyent Route

From Palma, take the Ma-1041 Puigpunyent. The drive takes around 30 minutes. The trail starts at the end of a narrow mountain road with limited roadside parking. There are no official signs, but on Google Maps the trail start is located at “Font Des Pi”, where you can park your car.

Estellencs Route

From Palma, follow Ma-1 and continue on Ma-10 along the scenic west coast until you reach Estellencs (~50 minutes drive). Parking is limited but usually available along the road or in small lay-bys near the trailhead. Plot in “Accés refugi Sa Coma d’En Vidal” on Google Maps — this is where the trail starts.

Tip: Both roads involve mountain driving with tight curves. Take your time, especially in high season or on weekends.

By Bus

To Puigpunyent

• From Palma Intermodal Station, take Bus 201 towards Galilea.
• Get off at Puigpunyent (stop: Puigpunyent)
• From the village, it’s approx. 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach the trailhead — note that the path is uphill and partly on rural roads.

To Estellencs

• From Palma, also take Bus 202 (Palma – Estellencs – Banyalbufar).
• Get off in at the stop Estellencs 2 at the outskirts of town.
• The trail starts on the side of the Ma-10 about 40 minutes walk from the bus stop.

Check the latest schedules via TIB Mallorca’s website.

My Experience

I’ve hiked Puig de Galatzó twice — once via the short, punchy route from Puigpunyent and once via the longer, winding trail from Estellencs. And I loved both.

I remember coming down from the summit that first time, legs trembling, cheeks flushed, utterly convinced I’d walked at least 15 kilometers. I checked my step count: just over 5k. What? No way. I’d just returned from Narnia. Surely.

That’s the thing about Galatzó — it swallows you whole. You’re hiking through pine forest and rocky gullies, meeting only the occasional goat, and suddenly the world feels vast, cinematic, mythic.

Anyway — the hike described below is from the long route starting near Estellencs, which is my favorite of the two. Mostly because I like to walk. A lot.

No Rest For The Wicked

The trail doesn’t ease you in. It just goes straight up. No warm-up, no mercy. In the heat of the sun, I always find myself muttering the same thing: Why am I surprised that hiking is hard? Like… it’s hiking. And yet, here we are — thighs burning, lungs adjusting, regretting all life choices — again.

We’d parked on the side of the road after driving one of the most beautiful stretches of the island — the rugged west coast — a twisty, stomach-turning drive that always makes me feel slightly car-sick and slightly in love. Stepping out of the car, the Mediterranean air snapped me back to life.

The first part of the trail was a dusty, rocky track — steep, wild, overgrown in places — but it began to soften as we climbed, and eventually leveled out just enough for conversation to return.

Your Dog Is Running

Somewhere along the way, we passed old stone furnaces and a small circular hut. These are remains of Mallorca’s charcoal-making past — back when men lived in the mountains during the warmer months to harvest timber and slowly burn it into charcoal. I’ve passed these before and just assumed they were shelters. This time, there was a sign. I love when a hike teaches you something.

The forest began to thin, and golden grasses took over. The sea appeared — shimmering, immense — as the mountain slowly pulled back the curtain.

A dog came sprinting toward us, tail high, ears flapping. It gave us a quick sniff, then vanished down the path. Five minutes later, a man appeared, calling out. “Tu perro está corriendo!” I shouted, pointing. I really hope they found each other again.

From dense woodland to rocky scrambles, the trail opened up into a high meadow, and Galatzó’s jagged profile appeared in the distance. A stunning and slightly menacing reminder that we still had a lot of climbing to do.

Muscle Memory & Muesli Bars

The higher we got, the smaller the trees looked behind us, and the ocean grew wider, deeper, bluer. Sailboats below moved like slow brushstrokes across the sea.

Two mountain goats crossed our path — I greeted them like old friends. A butterfly hovered for an impossible moment over a ledge.

Eventually, we reached the point where the two trails converge. A wooden sign pointed to the summit. We picked up the pace — passing a few hikers, powered by muscle memory and anticipation.

At the top, we did what we always do at the top: we feasted. Muesli bars, bananas, corn crackers — all tasted like gourmet picnic food at that altitude.

It was warm when we started, but up here, the mountain breeze crept in. I threw on a windbreaker. I’d only brought one liter of water — rookie move — and tried not to finish it all at once.

I took my photos. Fifty versions of the same frame. Because I couldn’t help it. It’s just that beautiful up there. I probably would’ve taken more, if not for a thick, dramatic cloud rolling toward us like a weather warning. We packed up quickly, determined to beat the rain. We did.

So Close, Yet So Far

Here’s the thing: the loop back was longer than we thought. You know that feeling when you keep telling yourself “we must be close,” and you’re not? That happened. A lot.

The trail led us into forest, then up again, then back down, twisting and turning endlessly. It was beautiful — but by that point, we were ready to be done.

In hindsight, I maybe should’ve just packed more snacks. But that’s how you learn.

We ended the day the way every hike should end — with a swim. We drove to Andratx and slipped into the sea at one of our secret spots. I won’t tell you where. Some things you’ve got to find on your own.

Happy hiking.

Other Mallorca Hikes You Might Love

If you’re into hikes with a mix of views, vibes and a little storytelling magic, here are a few more of my favorite trails around Mallorca:

🏰 Castell d’Alaró

A hike that feels like you’ve stepped into a Mallorcan legend. This trail leads to the dramatic ruins of a cliff-top castle, with panoramic views and sheep bells echoing in the distance. There’s even a restaurant halfway up if you need a little motivation. History, views and a touch of myth — it’s all here.

⛰️ My Favorite Short Hike Near Andratx

A quick escape into nature that delivers way more than its short distance suggests. This one’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want that “I just walked through a postcard” feeling. You’ll get views over sea and pine forest, and probably won’t meet a soul.

🌊 Calo de s’Estaca Coastal Hike

This one’s for the sea lovers. A coastal trail near Valldemossa that winds through old olive groves and pine woods before dropping you into a hidden cove that feels completely off the map. Crystal water, a few crumbling fishermen’s huts, and utter stillness.

FAQ: Visiting Mallorca

What’s the best way to get to Mallorca?

Mallorca’s main airport is Palma de Mallorca (PMI), with direct flights from most major European cities. It’s well connected and just a 15–30 minute drive from many of the island’s key hiking areas.

Do I need a car to explore Mallorca’s hikes?

Yes – renting a car is highly recommended if you want to reach trailheads and explore hidden corners of the island. Public transport is decent between big towns but limited in rural areas, especially on weekends.

What’s the best time to go hiking in Mallorca?

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are perfect. Expect mild temperatures, blooming nature, and fewer crowds. Summer hikes are possible but best done early in the morning – it gets hot fast!

Can I drink water on the trails?

There are usually no water sources along the trails, so always bring more than you think you’ll need. A general rule: at least 1.5–2 liters per person for half-day hikes.

Will I see goats?

Yes! Mallorcan mountain goats are practically part of the hiking experience. You’ll often see them climbing cliffs like it’s nothing. They’re not aggressive, just curious (and often photogenic).

What should I pack for a hike?

• Good hiking shoes or trail runners
• Sun protection (hat, SPF, sunglasses)
• Plenty of water
• Snacks (always!)
• A light jacket – the weather can change fast in the mountains
• A downloaded offline map
• Camera or phone for capturing the views

Is wild camping allowed in Mallorca?

No, wild camping is not legal in Mallorca. There are some official refuges and campsites, but if you’re hiking, you’ll need to plan to return the same day or stay in nearby villages.

Which hiking apps work best in Mallorca?

• AllTrails – Great trail database and reviews
• Komoot – Good offline maps and navigation
• Maps.me – Reliable for free offline navigation (my preference)
• Wikiloc – Popular with local hikers