Castell d’Alaró – A Ridge Walk to Historic Ruins
Route Snapshot Above Alaró Village
A stone-path climb through pines and terraces leads to Castell d’Alaró, a dramatic hilltop with sweeping views across Mallorca. It’s a classic half-day hike you can pair with a long lunch in the village. For broader planning, see Hiking in Mallorca from Palma and Best Hiking Trails in Mallorca.
🧭 Start Points, Drive/Bus & Quick Table
From Palma Cathedral it’s ~30–40 minutes by car via Ma-13 to Alaró. TIB buses also serve the village; add lane/time to reach the trailhead.
| Start | From Palma | Time on Trail | Grade | Why choose it |
| Alaró village → Es Verger → Castle loop | 30–40 min drive / bus | 2.5–3 h | Moderate | Classic route, lunch options |
| Shorter out-and-back (village → castle) | 30–40 min | 2–2.5 h | Easy-Mod | Quick win, same views at the top |
| Es Verger car park → castle | 30–35 min | 1.5–2 h | Easy-Mod | Shortest ascent; more time on the summit |
Map: Alaró trailhead area
Helpful reads: Public Transport in Mallorca, Serra de Tramuntana
📏 Distances, Ascent & Times
| Variant | Distance | Ascent | Typical Time | Notes |
| Village loop via Es Verger | 7–8 km | ~450–550 m | 2.5–3 h | Mixed track + stone steps |
| Village out-and-back | 6–7 km | ~450–500 m | 2–2.5 h | Simplest nav |
| Es Verger car park O&B | 4–5 km | ~300–350 m | 1.5–2 h | Good family option |
Allow extra time for castle exploring and photos.
🗺️ Route Notes You Can Scan
Village → Es Verger → Castle (Loop)
Climb shaded tracks and old stone steps past terraces to Es Verger area, then continue up to the ridge. Final meters wind through rock and pines to the castle gateway and chapel. Descend a quieter path to close the loop.
Shorter Out-and-Back
Walk from the village square toward the signed paths; keep the climb steady and enjoy the same summit views with less commitment.
🌄 What’s Special Up Top
- Ruins and ramparts with 360° views across the central plain and Tramuntana
- A small chapel and picnic spots tucked from the breeze
- Best light: morning after clear nights or late-day golden tones
🧳 Pack Smart (Light & Practical)
- Trail shoes with grip, hat, light layer (ridge breeze)
- 1–2 L water (more in summer), snacks or a light picnic
- Phone with offline maps/GPX; small first-aid & plasters
- Coins/app for village parking if you’re driving
For more on GPX and kit, see Hiking in Mallorca from Palma.
🕒 When to Go & Heat Strategy
- Mar–May / Sep–Oct: top conditions and clear views
- Jun–Aug: start before 08:30; consider the Es Verger start to reduce exposure
- Nov–Feb: crisp ridges; bring a wind layer and mind earlier dusk
🦺 Safety, Access & Respect
- Stay on waymarked paths; close gates and don’t shortcut terraces
- Stone can be slick after dew/showers — step carefully on polished sections
- The summit has drops; keep children close and avoid cliff edges in wind
- Pack out all litter, including fruit peels
🗺️ Extra Pins (Parking, Plaza, Photo Spots)
Alaró village parking & square (pre/post lunch)
Es Verger area (shortest start)
❓ FAQ
Is this suitable for kids?
Yes for active kids used to uneven paths; the Es Verger start is the easiest option.
Do I need a car?
Not strictly. Buses reach Alaró; add time to walk to the start. See Public Transport in Mallorca.
Any food tips?
Many walkers pair this with a village lunch after the hike. Carry snacks regardless.
Are there water sources?
Treat as no refill on the hill; stock up in the village.
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