Puig des Tresor: Hiking Mallorca’s Lesser-Known Mountain Peak

Why Puig des Tresor Stands Out

At 309 metres, Puig des Tresor rises above the flat farmland and pine groves east of Artà. Its modest height delivers wide vistas across the Bay of Alcúdia and the open sea, yet the summit remains far quieter than the crowded peaks of the Tramuntana. The mountain’s name, “Treasure Hill,” hints at local legends of hidden Moorish gold, but today its real value lies in the easy access to wild Mediterranean scrub and seasonal wildflowers.

Reaching the Trailhead

Drive the MA-12 between Artà and Capdepera and turn onto the narrow lane signed “Camí de sa Muntanya.” A small gravel parking area sits at the base after roughly two kilometres. No public transport reaches the start, so a rental car or taxi from Artà is the practical option. The final approach is unpaved but suitable for ordinary vehicles in dry weather.

Best Time to Visit

November through April offers the most comfortable temperatures and fewer biting insects. Spring brings carpets of wild orchids and asphodels; autumn provides clear air after the summer haze. Summer hiking is possible only with an early start and plenty of water, as the exposed limestone reflects heat.

The Main Hiking Route

The standard out-and-back trail begins with a gentle forest track through Aleppo pines before climbing a series of stone steps and rocky switchbacks. The route is just under three kilometres each way with 250 metres of elevation gain. Most walkers reach the trig point and viewpoint in 45–60 minutes. From the top you look north toward Cap de Pera lighthouse and south across terraced almond groves. A short detour along the ridge adds another ten minutes and reveals the old stone watchtower ruins.

Flora, Fauna and What to Watch For

Look for the endemic Balearic lizard basking on warm rocks and the occasional booted eagle circling overhead. In spring the slopes are dotted with rosemary, thyme and the bright yellow flowers of the endemic Hypericum balearicum. The area is protected, so stay on marked paths and avoid picking plants.

Nearby Places Worth Combining

After descending, continue ten minutes by car to the Ermita de Betlem for shaded picnic tables and further short walks. The walled town of Artà, with its Saturday market and hilltop sanctuary, lies only fifteen minutes away. For a longer day, the coastal path at Cala Torta is reachable in twenty minutes and offers a refreshing swim after the climb.