Puig de sa Selleta: Hiking Mallorca’s Quiet Tramuntana Peak

Why Puig de sa Selleta Stands Out

At 492 metres, Puig de sa Selleta rises gently above the western foothills of the Serra de Tramuntana. Unlike the crowded summits of Puig Major or Es Teix, this peak offers solitude, terraced olive groves, and unobstructed panoramas of the Mediterranean and the distant Formentor peninsula. The route passes through classic Mallorcan landscape: dry-stone walls, carob trees, and Aleppo pines that shelter endemic birds such as the Balearic warbler.

Planning Your Visit

The best months are April–June and September–October, when temperatures stay comfortable for walking and wildflowers or autumn light enhance the scenery. Summer brings intense heat and occasional thunderstorms; winter trails can be muddy after rain. Allow three to four hours for the round trip, including time at the summit.

Getting There and Trail Access

Drive from Palma via the Ma-1101 to the village of Puigpunyent, then continue toward Es Capdellà. Park in the signed lay-by at Coll de sa Creu (limited spaces). The trail begins on a wide track that narrows into a marked footpath (PR-Mallorca 5 variant). No permit is required, but the route is unsigned beyond the first kilometre, so a good map or GPS track is essential. Public buses reach Puigpunyent; from there a taxi or 45-minute walk gets you to the trailhead.

What to Expect on the Hike

The path climbs steadily through terraced farmland before entering pine woodland. After 45 minutes you reach a saddle with views toward Andratx. The final rocky section to the summit trig point is short but requires sure footing. At the top, the 360-degree vista takes in the Bay of Palma, the dramatic cliffs of Na Burguesa, and on clear days the island of Cabrera. Return by the same route or extend the walk along the ridge toward neighbouring Puig des Cairells.

Nearby Attractions Worth Combining

• The historic village of Puigpunyent with its weekly market and cafés.
• Finca Es Rafal, open for olive-oil tastings.
• Coastal walks at nearby Port d’Andratx, 20 minutes by car.
• The larger but busier Puig de Galatzó, reached from the same valley.

Combine the hike with a relaxed lunch in Andratx or a swim at Cala d’Egos for a full day exploring the southwest corner of the island.