GR 221: the Dry Stone Route

The Dry Stone Route (GR 221) crosses the Serra de Tramuntana from Port d'Andratx to Pollença along old cobbled paths, dry-stone walls and terraces, the landscape UNESCO declared a World Heritage Site. The Consell de Mallorca has waymarked around 260 km including the main route and variants; the full trek takes about 8-10 stages.

Along the way there are Consell refuges (Coma d'en Vidal, Can Boi in Deià, Muleta in Port de Sóller, Tossals Verds, Son Amer in Lluc and Pont Romà in Pollença), which you book in advance on its website. The best season is October to May; in summer it's too hot and there's hardly any water. Many single stages make perfect day hikes, such as Deià-Sóller or Sóller-Tossals Verds.

According to the Consell's 2026 leaflet, the route has 261.1 km open and waymarked: 150.1 km of main route and 111 km of variants. The long-standing refuges have been joined by one at Galatzó, beside the houses of this large public estate, and another on the Puig d'Alaró. Each has its own character: Can Boi is in the middle of Deià, in a house with an old olive press; Muleta, on Cap Gros above Port de Sóller, was a radiotelegraph station; and Tossals Verds sits at 540 m on a 578-hectare public estate.

What people underestimate most is water: there are hardly any reliable springs between refuges, and almost no shade on the ridges. Carry mountain boots, a map, a torch, a first-aid kit and a phone, which is exactly what the Consell recommends. Book the refuges on its website well ahead, especially in spring and over long weekends.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the GR 221 in Mallorca?

According to the Consell de Mallorca (2026), 261.1 km open and waymarked: 150.1 km of main route between Port d'Andratx and Pollença and 111 km of variants. Walked in full, it takes about 8 to 10 stages, sleeping in the refuges along the way.

Do you need to book the Dry Stone Route refuges?

Yes, always book on the Consell de Mallorca website, especially in spring and autumn. The route has Galatzó, Coma d'en Vidal, Can Boi (Deià), Muleta (Port de Sóller), Tossals Verds, Son Amer (Lluc), Pont Romà (Pollença) and the Puig d'Alaró refuge.

Can you hike the GR 221 in summer?

You can, but it is not the best time: it is very hot, there is little shade on the high sections and almost no water along the way. If you go between June and September, start at dawn, carry plenty of water and choose short stages.

Updated in October 2026