Puig Gros: Hiking Mallorca’s Overlooked Summit

Why Puig Gros Deserves a Place on Your Mallorca Itinerary

Puig Gros rises quietly above the terraced hills west of Palma, offering hikers a compact yet satisfying summit experience without the crowds that swarm the island’s better-known peaks. Its modest height still delivers expansive panoramas that stretch from the dramatic ridges of the Serra de Tramuntana to the sparkling sea near Andratx and the distant silhouette of Dragonera island.

Getting There

The trailhead sits a short drive from Palma via the Ma-1110 toward Puigpunyent and then the narrow lanes that climb toward Es Capdellà. Most visitors park in the small lay-by near the forestry track that leads directly to the main path. Public transport is limited, so renting a car or joining an organized hike from Palma is the most practical approach. The final approach is on foot only; the road ends well below the summit.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) bring mild temperatures and clear visibility. Summer hikes are possible but start very early to avoid heat and the risk of afternoon thunderstorms. Winter days can be crisp and bright, though occasional rain makes the limestone paths slippery.

What to See and Do on the Trail

The standard route follows a well-marked forestry track that winds through pine forest and past ancient dry-stone terraces. After roughly an hour the path narrows to a rocky scramble that rewards careful footing with 360-degree views. At the summit cairn, look for the trig point and spend time identifying the surrounding peaks—Puig de Galatzó to the north and the rugged coastline to the southwest. Photographers favor the golden light of late afternoon when the sea turns deep turquoise.

• Combine the hike with a visit to the nearby village of Puigpunyent for lunch or a coffee in its shaded square.
• Extend the day with a coastal walk at nearby Cala d’Egos or a stop at the Jardins d’Alfàbia botanical gardens on the return toward Palma.

Practical Considerations

The route is short enough for a half-day outing yet steep enough to require decent fitness and proper footwear. Carry at least two liters of water per person and sun protection; shade is limited once above the tree line. The mountain lies within a protected natural area, so stay on marked paths to protect the fragile vegetation and nesting birds.