Serra de Tramuntana

Serra de Tramuntana

The Serra de Tramontana is the main mountain range in the Balearic Islands. Located in the northwest of Mallorca, it gets its name from the strong wind that always blows in this direction, as Tramontana comes from the Latin word "transmontanus," meaning "beyond the mountain".

In 2011, the Serra de Tramuntana was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Today, it's one of the most important mountain ranges in Spain and Europe.

The Serra de Tramuntana is famous for its unique cliffs and gorges, which stand out compared to the rest of the island. The rugged, rocky landscape creates a striking contrast with the beaches and coves found elsewhere around Mallorca.

The Highest Peak on the Island

Puig Major is the highest peak in Mallorca at 1,436 metres (4,711 feet). While it’s not among the tallest mountains in Spain, it remains an impressive and awe-inspiring sight.

Thanks to the limestone and the geography of the entire range, the Serra de Tramuntana are made up of impressive natural spaces such as streams, ravines, sinkholes, caves, mountains, and cliffs.

One of the main attractions of the area is its uneven terrain, making it a true paradise for mountain lovers and adventure sports enthusiasts. The surface is completely cracked in some areas, which over the years has led to the creation of several unique caves and sinkholes, some famous all around Europe.

A Protected Natural Area

In addition to its stunning mountainous landscape, the area where the mountain is located is surrounded by a spectacular national park and a protected area with its own unique ecosystem.

The Serra de Tramuntana is home to some of the most important native species of the Balearic Islands, with vegetation that only exists in these regions, such as the nine species of orchids and the wide variety of plants, including some ferns.

The oak forest area also stands out, an ancient native forest to the island that is now the last refuge for trees typically found in colder climates and much larger mountainous areas.