ENNatural Parks in Mallorca – Complete Guide to Hiking, Beaches & Wildlife
Mallorca isn’t just about beaches and nightlife – it’s also home to some of Spain’s most breathtaking natural parks and reserves. From mountain peaks and wetlands to untouched islands and wild coves, these protected areas showcase the island’s diverse landscapes and unique biodiversity.
Whether you’re into hiking, birdwatching, photography, or simply escaping the crowds, here’s your complete guide to Mallorca’s natural side. Each section links to our in-depth park guides.
A Guide to the Island’s Best Green Escapes 🌿
From coastal reserves with turquoise waters to mountain ranges with dramatic cliffs, here’s a complete guide to Mallorca’s must-visit natural parks.
🗂️ Quick Comparison of Mallorca’s Natural Parks
| Park | Location | Best For | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serra de Tramuntana ⛰️ | Northwest Mallorca | Hikers, cyclists, road trippers | Puig Major, Sa Calobra, GR221 trail |
| Cabrera National Park 🏝️ | South of Mallorca (boat from Colònia de Sant Jordi) | Snorkeling, boat trips, photographers | Blue Cave, pristine beaches, Cabrera Castle |
| Parc Natural de Llevant 🌾 | Northeast Mallorca (near Artà) | Wild hikes, remote coves, wildlife | Cala Matzoc, Ermita de Betlem, Talaia Freda |
| S’Albufera Natural Park 🐦 | Near Alcúdia & Playa de Muro | Birdwatching, easy family walks | Bird hides, flat trails, flamingos |
| S’Albufereta Nature Reserve 🌊 | Between Alcúdia & Pollença | Quick nature trips, birdwatching | Over 200 bird species, coastal views |
| Mondragó Natural Park 🏖️ | Southeast Mallorca (near Santanyí) | Families, swimmers, photographers | Cala Mondragó, S’Amarador, pine forests |
| Sa Dragonera 🦎 | Off Mallorca’s west coast (boat from Sant Elm) | Day trips, wildlife, sea views | Lizards, lighthouse hikes, cliffs |
1. ⛰ Serra de Tramuntana – UNESCO World Heritage Mountains
📍 Location: Western Mallorca
🌿 Best For: Hiking, cycling, photography
🚗 How to Get There: Drive from Palma (~30 mins) or take the scenic Sóller train
The Serra de Tramuntana stretches along Mallorca’s northwest coast, combining dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and charming villages like Valldemossa, Deià, and Sóller. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s a must for hikers and cyclists.
Highlights: Puig Major (Mallorca’s highest peak), Sa Calobra & Torrent de Pareis gorge, and the GR221 “Dry Stone Route.”
👉 Read our full Serra de Tramuntana guide
2. 🏖 Mondragó Natural Park – Beaches & Coastal Trails
📍 Location: Southeast Mallorca, near Santanyí
🌿 Best For: Beach lovers, nature walks, family trips
🚗 How to Get There: Drive from Palma (~1 hour)
In the southeast near Santanyí, Mondragó blends nature with turquoise waters. Families love its easy walking paths and two stunning bays – Cala Mondragó and S’Amarador.
Highlights: Pine-shaded coastal trails, snorkeling-friendly waters, and picnic spots.
👉 Read our full Mondragó guide
3. 🌊 S’Albufereta Nature Reserve – Compact Wetland by the Sea
📍 Location: Northeast Mallorca, near Alcúdia
🌿 Best For: Birdwatching, nature photography, peaceful walks
🚗 How to Get There: 10-minute drive from Alcúdia or take Bus 324
Between Alcúdia and Pollença sits the smaller but equally beautiful S’Albufereta reserve. It’s perfect for quick birdwatching trips and easily combined with nearby beaches.
Highlights: Over 200 bird species, quiet trails, and views over Pollença Bay.
👉 Read our full S’Albufereta guide
4. 🏝 Cabrera Archipelago Maritime-Terrestrial National Park
📍 Location: Off Mallorca’s southern coast
🌿 Best For: Boat trips, snorkeling, untouched nature
🚤 How to Get There: Boat from Colònia de Sant Jordi (~45 mins)
Just south of Mallorca lies Cabrera, a protected island chain only accessible by boat. Its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and untouched bays make it a paradise for divers, snorkelers, and nature lovers.
Highlights: The glowing Blue Cave (Cova Blava), Cabrera Castle, and quiet beaches with no crowds.
5. 🌾 Parc Natural de Llevant – Wild Northeast Escape
📍 Location: Northeast Mallorca, near Artà
🌿 Best For: Wild hiking, off-the-beaten-path adventures
🚗 How to Get There: 15-minute drive from Artà
Located near Artà, this park covers rugged mountains, farmland, and pristine coastline. It’s one of Mallorca’s wildest areas, with hiking trails leading to remote coves and hilltop hermitages.
Highlights: Cala Matzoc (hidden beach), Ermita de Betlem hike, and birdwatching opportunities.
👉 Read our full Parc Natural de Llevant guide
6. 🐦 S’Albufera Natural Park – Wetlands & Birdlife
Mallorca’s largest wetland reserve, located near Alcúdia, is a haven for birdwatchers. With easy trails and viewing hides, it’s a peaceful place to spot flamingos, egrets, and marsh harriers.
Highlights: Flat cycling & walking paths, spring bird migrations, and family-friendly routes.
👉 Read our full S’Albufera guide
7. 🦎 Sa Dragonera Natural Park – Island of Lizards
Off Mallorca’s west coast near Sant Elm lies Sa Dragonera, a small island and protected park famous for its lizards, hiking trails, and views across the sea. Accessible only by boat, it’s a favorite day trip.
Highlights: Lighthouse hikes, rare reptiles, and dramatic cliffs.
👉 Read our full Sa Dragonera guide
🚗 How to Visit Mallorca’s Natural Parks
- By Car – The most flexible option, especially for Serra de Tramuntana and Llevant.
- By Bus – Some parks (like S’Albufera, Mondragó) have seasonal connections.
- By Boat – The only way to reach Cabrera and Sa Dragonera.
- With a Guide – Book guided hikes or tours for easier logistics and local knowledge.
Tips when Visiting Mallorca’s Natural Parks 📌
✔ Respect the environment – Stay on trails, don’t leave litter, and follow park rules
✔ Best time to visit? – Spring & autumn are ideal for hiking, summer is great for beaches
✔ Bring water & snacks – Many parks have no shops or facilities
✔ Check accessibility – Some trails are challenging, while others are perfect for families
Experience Mallorca’s Natural Beauty! 🌍
Mallorca’s natural parks and reserves offer endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and exploration. Whether you want to hike through mountains, snorkel in marine reserves, or relax on unspoiled beaches, these parks showcase the best of Mallorca’s diverse landscapes.
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