Top hiking trails in the Balearic Islands

The magnificent beaches of the Balearic Islands attract thousands of visitors each year, but that is not all they have to offer. The natural riches of the Balearic Islands have caught the attention of mindful tourists with a desire to get back to nature. 

These islands are home to dramatic landscapes, breathtaking bays and spectacular peaks, which reward walkers of all abilities with stunning panoramic views.

So, tie up those trusty walking boots, apply sun lotion, slide on the sunnies, and get ready for the top 4 hiking trails around the Balearic Islands. Some are short, some are long, all of them are amazing!

Two people hiking along a forest trail with lush greenery

1. Cala Galdana to Santo Tomas on the Cami de Cavalls (Menorca)

It would take about 20 days to hike the entire Cami de Cavalls. In order to make things a little bit easier to manage, it has been divided into 20 smaller sections.

If you have to choose just one section, we recommend this one. The route that links Cala Galdana to Santo Tomas is a beautiful excursion with incredible views, where you can enjoy the coastal scenery of Menorca. 

Along the 11 km hike, you will walk through peaceful forests and the coast. Keep an eye out for Cala Mitjana, a remote white sand beach with turquoise waters. Is there any better reward after a long (or short) walk than a dip in the cooling sea? 

With moderate difficulty and at a medium pace, it will take you about 1 hour to reach your destination.

The crowded Cala Mitjana beach, along the Camí de Cavalls trail, in Menorca

2. Colonia Sant Pere to Es Caló de Betlem (Mallorca)

Would you be interested in taking a short, relaxing hike to a remote bay, which you might even be fortunate enough to have all to yourself? 

Then head out to the small town of Colonia Sant Pere on the east of Mallorca and hike for 1 hour to reach Es Caló de Betlem. This 3 km walk will take you through beautiful pine forests before reaching Es Caló de Betlem, a cove so remote, that those willing to make the journey may find themselves all alone there - with the only other probable visitors being rock climbers. 

The mountain views and the turquoise waters make this beach the perfect reward after a hike.

Natural shade at the lovely Es Caló de Betlem cove in Mallorca

3. Cami de sa Pujada (Formentera)

There are excellent trekking opportunities on even the smallest of the Balearic Islands. Formentera’s Sa Pujada route (that is, Roman Route), declared a Site of Cultural Interest, is a paved road used during the first half of the 20th century and dates back to ancient Roman times. 

Connecting the towns of Es Caló, a small, traditional fishing town, and La Mola, the 4 km hike takes about 45 minutes one way. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to views over the Racó de Sa Pujada and the Pou des Verro, the best panoramic views in Formentera. 

Along the way you will find the viewpoint of Les Petjades del Diable (the devil’s footprints), a cross engraved on the ground and a small cave called Cova de sa Mà Peluda. When the La Mola plateau is reached, the journey continues, passing by the Terramoll Winery's vineyards. 

The route ends in El Pilar de la Mola, from where 6 other new routes start.

A hiking trail passing through a forest in El Pilar de la Mola, Formentera

4. Sa Talaia (Ibiza)

Sa Talaia is the highest mountain in Ibiza (475 m). You can set off on this trail from the plaza in front of the church of Sant Josep. Continue along Sa Talaia street, where you'll find the Punic-Roman rural settlement of ses Paises de Cala d'Hort. Shortly after you go up the street you’ll head into a country path with native vegetation and an aromatic forest. 

From here, one can proceed by following the signs that will indicate to them how to reach the top of Sa Talaia hill. In the first stretch, there are fabulous panoramic views that you can enjoy. There's also a chance you'll come across a jineta on a lucky day, Ibiza's most exotic mammal. 

Helpful info: can’t choose 1 only route for your trip to the Balearic Islands? Why don’t you hike all of them? Check out our complete guide to island hopping in the Balearic Islands.

Top view of Sant Josep village and Sa Talaia, the highest mountain of Ibiza

Tips for your hiking adventures in the Balearic Islands

• Make sure you wear comfortable and suitable footwear. Although sports shoes can be used on routes of medium to low difficulty, hiking boots are ideal. 
• Find out about the routes before doing them and make sure they are suitable for your physical condition and experience, as in many trails there is no mobile signal.
• Always carry a bag to collect your garbage and do not leave any waste behind you.
• Respect the flora and fauna and avoid disturbing wild animals or playing music at a high volume.
• Make sure you bring enough water and food, as well as something with sugar in case you run out of energy.
• Start the routes early to avoid the hottest hours and do not go hiking if there is rain forecast.

Book ferry tickets to the Balearic Islands

Are you already putting on your trekking boots? On Ferryhopper, you can book your ferry tickets to the Balearic Islands online. Find all the information you need on our Map of ferries and plan your trip in just a few clicks and with no hidden fees.

Tip: if you want to book your tickets even more easily, download the Ferryhopper App!