“explore, conserve, and appreciate the wonders of mallorca”
The discerning ecotourist is going to feel very at home in Mallorca.
Eco-friendly lodgings, protected natural parks and eco-friendly activities are so plentiful you’d need several months vacation to see and experience just half of them.
Mallorca is an island known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity and now the island has really embraced the concept of sustainable tourism.
Preserving its natural heritage and fostering sustainable economic development by green tourism is actually a local government priority.
What’s in the Article
Bodega Ribas
So What is Ecotourism?
Before we delve into Mallorca’s eco-adventures, let’s try and understand what ecotourism is all about.
So without getting into the weeds about “soft path” and “hard path” ecotourism, let’s assume you’re arriving in Mallorca on a jet plane.
Not a great start, but let’s be realistic you’re not going to jump onto a hot air ballon and hope for favourable winds.
Now you’re here, you’ve arrived, it’s time to enjoy all the green tourism opportunities Mallorca has on offer.
Ecotourism isn’t just about walking in the mountains, it’s taking care your route isn’t being “hiked to death”. it’s a mindful way of traveling that focuses on preserving nature and supporting local communities, and minimising environmental impact everywhere you can.
It’s about immersing oneself in the natural wonders of a destination and its culture, while leaving behind a zero; or at least a positive footprint.
Let’s move on…….
Bodega Ribas
Eco-Friendly Activities in Mallorca
Visitors to Mallorca can enjoy so many environmentally-friendly and eco-friendly activities that it’s hard to list them all.
But in this article I’ll showcase some that take in the island’s natural beauty, and at the same time those that promote environmental conservation.
So when you might like to consider.
Bodega Ribas
Mallorca’s Natural Parks and Nature Walks
Serra de Tramuntana:
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a rugged mountain range that stretches down Mallorca’s northwest coast.
You’ll need a strong pair of hiking boots and embark on a journey along the GR 221 hiking trail, which winds through picturesque villages, ancient olive groves, and breathtaking peaks.
The whole route is 140 kilometres long but you can obvious choose a section of it to pass a pleasant days walking on
Keep an eye out for the Balearic mountain goat and the rarely spotted black vulture as you walk this breathtaking landscape.
Cabrera Archipelago:
You’ll need to take short boat ride to reach the Cabrera Archipelago National Park. ( daily boats depart from Colonia de Sant Jordi )
This is a wonderful protected marine reserve of 19 uninhabited islands and islets.
Brilliant pristine beaches, and underwater caves to snorkel down to, or just enjoy the park’s crystal-clear waters.
A great place for photographers to capture sightings of dolphins, sea turtles, and the abundant bird life.
S’Albufera Natural Park:
Up on the northern coast of Mallorca, Albufera Natural Park is an extensive wetland reserve teeming with biodiversity and particularly birdlife.
Plenty of walking and cycling trails to explore winding through marshes, sand dunes, and sparse pine groves.
Keep an eye out for native bird species such as purple herons, ospreys, and marsh harriers as well as flamingo flocks.
Torrent de Pareis:
Tucked away down by the seashore of the North West Serra de Tramuntana,
Torrent de Pareis is a simply spectacular gorge accessible only by foot, or there are boat trips from the Port of Soller.
It’s quite a challenging but dramatic hike through the rugged terrain carved straight out of a fairy tale. It’s a bit of a geological wonder and well worth a visit.
Cap de Formentor:
Located at the northern tip of Mallorca, Cap de Formentor is a rugged peninsula with dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and panoramic viewpoints.
The walks here are quite challenging bur so worth It. Breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and pine forests.
Stop at viewpoints like Mirador des Colomer to capture photos of this coastal paradise.
Sa Dragonera Natural Park:
A boat trip is required to visit Dragonera Natural Park. It’s a pristine island sanctuary located off the southwest coast of Mallorca
The boat trip through the park’s crystalline waters passing by rugged cliffs, hidden coves is brilliant on it’s own.
When you arrive on the island there’s walking trails, ancient watchtowers, and plenty of wildlife and bird species.
Llevant Peninsula:
Untouched beauty here. The Llevant Peninsula is rugged region on Mallorca’s northeastern tip. Plenty of walks here from easy through to challenging.
Which ever one you choose you’ll be impressed by the pine forests, rocky cliffs, and eventually the secluded beaches.
Take your camera because you should encounter native wildlife such as wild goats, eagles maybe vultures, and plenty of bird species.
Puig de Galatzó:
This is a true mountain walk, definitely not for the inexperienced hiker.
The Puig de Galatzó is Mallorca’s second-highest peak, located deep in the heart of the Serra de Tramuntana.
Lace up tight your hiking boots to tackle the trail. It should take around 4 hours to reach the summit, where your rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and coastline
The green tourist will appreciate the precious Holm Oak trees that grow here amongst the limestone rock formations.
In each of these stunning locations, birders can really appreciate Mallorca’s natural beauty and I think you’ll be impressed at the incredible array of avian life that calls Mallorca home.
Whether you want to explore flora and fauna on coastal cliffs, tranquil wetlands, or rugged mountains, then you’ll find Mallorca offers you endless opportunities to enjoy your birdwatching passion.
Mix it in with a lot of photography, discovery and a little adventure.
So my advice is grab your camera, lace up your boots and don’t hesitate.
Birdwatching in Mallorca isn’t going to disappoint you.
Bodega Ribas
Some other interesting places to visit next
Nev xxx
YOU CAN FOLLOW ME ON
SHOUT OUT FOR THE BRILLIANT PHOTOGRAPHS TO
MonDrago National Park.
Rafael Ortega Díaz CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=37673268
Puig de Galatzó