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GR221 Stage 1 — Es Capdellà to Estellencs

Coastal cliffs on the GR221 near Estellencs
11 km 4.5 hours 480 m of climbing Es Capdellà Challenging

The opening stage of the Dry Stone Route — tranquil estate tracks, a satisfying steep climb to a high col, then a mossy descent to a remote coastal village.

The route in brief

Start
Es Capdellà
Finish
Estellencs
Distance
11 km
Walking time
4.5 hours
Climbing
480 m of climbing
Terrain
Estate tracks, then a steep stony goat path to the col and a soft woodland descent.
Grade
Challenging
Area
South West Mallorca

Best if you walk regularly and are steady on rough ground — it is steep and long, with a little easy scrambling over rock. Not the one if heights make you uneasy.

The walk

The walk starts gently on country lanes and tracks through the Galatzó estate, passing restored charcoal-burners' huts and a working historic well, before the wild part: a steep climb through rough terrain with big views back down the valley.

A narrow stony goat path leads to the col between the peaks of S'Esclop and Galatzó, with an optional summit detour. From there it is soft woodland underfoot — pine and holm oak — down across the mountain road and on through woods and smallholdings to Estellencs, a small, rather remote village hanging above the sea.

Guide’s tipA proper mountain day: pace the estate tracks, keep something in reserve for the goat path to the col, then enjoy the soft, mossy descent into Estellencs.

A bit of history
The GR221 Dry Stone Route runs the length of the western range on the paths that linked the villages before the roads. Stage 1 is where it begins, on the Galatzó estate, once worked for charcoal and lime.

Why we like it

  • Restored charcoal huts and a historic well
  • The col between S'Esclop and Galatzó
  • Mossy woodland descent
  • Finishing in cliff-top Estellencs

Where you'll walk

Starts at Es Capdellà, finishing at Estellencs. It's in the South West of the Serra de Tramuntana.

South West Mallorca
Serra de Tramuntana

Approximate start area. Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors. We send exact directions and the meeting time when you book, and can arrange a transfer or point you to the bus.

How the day runs

We usually meet mid-morning at the start point. Plan on about 4.5 hours of walking plus stops for photos, a breather and something to eat — so, a full day out — back in the late afternoon, depending on the group. Your guide confirms the exact meeting time and place when you book.

What's included

A private guide booked exclusively for your party, plus civil liability and accident insurance. Transport, food and drinks are not included — your guide will suggest where to stop.

What to bring

Sturdy boots with good grip and ankle support — there is some easy scrambling over rock — plus a 25–30 L daypack, 1.5 L+ of water, snacks, sun protection, a light waterproof and walking poles. See the full what to bring list for a day's walking.

Common questions

How do we get to the start?

The walk starts at Es Capdellà, in the South West of the Serra de Tramuntana. There is parking near the start if you drive; otherwise we can arrange a private transfer or point you to the nearest bus. We send exact directions and the meeting time once you have booked.

Is this walk right for us?

It is graded Challenging — steep, 480 m of climbing, with some easy scrambling over rock, and demanding underfoot. It suits people who walk regularly and are steady on rough ground, and it is not the one if you are wary of heights. Tell us about your recent walking and we will say honestly whether it fits, or suggest an easier route in the same area.

Can we bring children?

For this one we would usually steer families with younger children to a gentler route — ask us and we will suggest a good alternative nearby.

When is the best time of year to do it?

Best in spring and autumn. In winter the tops can hold snow and ice; in high summer the climb is hot. We will tell you honestly if conditions are not right.

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Ready to walk this one?

Tell us your date and group size and we'll confirm a private guide for your party.

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Private walk From €339 VAT incl.
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