Sustainable Mallorca: ferry travel and activities

If you like to get off the beaten path, respect the wildlife, and support local businesses and ecotourism, then Mallorca is your next destination!

Going green is how we roll so find below more information about sustainable ferry travel and tips on sustainable practices and eco-friendly activities.

The imposing lighthouse of Formentor overlooking the Balearic Sea

Sustainable ferry travel to Mallorca

Traveling by ferry in a sustainable way is no longer just a ferrytale! The Balearic Islands were always innovative and strong advocates for sustainable ferry travel. Therefore, it’s no surprise that one of the world's first “green” fast ferries belongs to the fleet of the Spanish ferry company Baleària! 

Did you know that you can travel from/ to Mallorca with the sustainable ferry Eleanor Roosevelt? The ferry route Palma de Mallorca - Dénia is operated by Baleària! Following its example, more and more ferry companies apply an environmental policy. 

Ferry companies such as Trasmapi which participates in the “Be blue” Formentera care project to promote marine sustainability and Naviera Armas which takes part in the Plastic Free Project are making a huge step towards a green Future for the deep blue seas.

Tip: you can go on a day trip by ferry from Mallorca to Ibiza and experience a comfortable and most importantly eco-friendly trip on the greenest fast ferry of Baleària. Also, if you want to know more about eco-friendly ferry travel, check out our relevant blog on Ferryhopper.

And now that we covered sustainable traveling and we got you on the ferry to Mallorca, let’s dive into its amazing landscapes and find out all the fun and eco-friendly activities that you can do on the island!

The ferry Eleanor Roosevelt of Baleària heading to Mallorca

Eco-friendly activities to do in Mallorca

Mallorca respects its nature and aims to be a global leader in sustainable tourism. It’s an island with amazing beaches, vertiginous cliffs, natural parks, mesmerizing underwater caves, and imposing mountains. So, what’s not to love here, right? 

If you’re already thinking of your trip, make a list of the most fun AND eco-friendly activities to do in Mallorca! 

Go trekking in Serra de Tramuntana in Mallorca 

What better way to explore and appreciate the beauty of the green island than trekking? Hit the hiking trails of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains snaking across the north. The highest peak is Puig Major and, at 1,445 meters, it offers stunning views of the captivating coastline. 

On your way to the top, you will see enchanting lakes and deep canyons surrounded by verdant hills and dramatic ridges. You will also meet hikers, climbers, and nature lovers visiting the Serra de Tramuntana mountains from all around the world. 

So, put on your hiking boots, grab your backpack, some water, and a few energy bars, and set out to explore the picturesque mountain villages of Deià, Valldemossa, and Sóller, which overlook Mallorca's vast vineyards, olive groves, and almond orchards.

Tip: you can also visit the Parc s’Albufera in the northeast of Mallorca and Mondragó which is located in the southeastern part of the island.

Stunning sea views from the mountainous Serra de Tramuntana

Cycle to the Formentor Lighthouse

Are you familiar with the saying "Think globally, cycle locally"? Bicycle riding is good for the soul, as it uses few fossil fuels and is an environmentally friendly way to get around and explore. Plus, it's enjoyable!

So, take a bike and pedal your way all over the rural areas of Mallorca. One of the most popular cycling routes begins from Port de Pollensa and ends in Cap de Formentor. The scenery makes the effort well worth it with stunning coastal views.

Catch a breath on the instagrammable Es Colomer lookout point and then follow the route through the scented pine forest leading towards the Formentor lighthouse for amazing sea views. It’s a 37-kilometer round trip so you can enjoy a coffee at the Cafeteria Far Formentor, next to the lighthouse.

Tip: alternatively, there is a 3-hour e-bike tour to discover the Old Town of Palma de Mallorca. In 27 kilometers, you will see several top attractions including the Bellver Castle and the Basilica de Sant Francesc.

Bicycling towards the Cap de Formentor

Visit the salt evaporation ponds in Es Trenc 

After riding your way to the mountains of Mallorca (and to happiness) on two wheels, it is time to head south near the beach of Es Trenc. Thanks to its crystal-clear waters and the mild climate of the island, artificial salt ponds were created allowing the water to evaporate naturally.

Es Trenc Natural Park is a vast area that becomes the home of numerous migratory birds throughout the year. You can go bird watching and observe many flamingos, sea eagles, marsh harriers, yellow wagtails, and reeds rest and nest in the diverse landscape.

Walk towards the protected natural landscape of salt dunes, observe the fauna and see how the flor de sal is extracted from the Salinas d’Es Trenc (salt flats). Those precious flakes of salt are the local’s white gold as they call it.

Tip: there, you can find the highest quality salt made by a pinch of sea breeze, beams of sunlight, low humidity, and crystalline, pure seawater.

The impressive salt dunes in the National Park of Es Trenc

Explore the mythical Hams Caves 

If you thought Mallorca’s “green” attractions ended at the beaches and natural parks, think again! Explore naturally sculpted underground caves that were discovered in the early 20th century. 

Start your cave hopping from the Caves of Genova in the capital of Mallorca, Palma de Mallorca. Explore the impressive stalactite caves by diving 40 meters and walking the 3-kilometer route. Then, head to the enchanting Hams Caves (the Round Cave, the Blue Cave, and the Classic Cave) in Porto Cristo.

Tip: if you want to be a sustainable traveler make sure to shop and eat locally! The market of Mallorca is full of eco-friendly products.

The impressive Blue Cave of Hams Caves in Mallorca

Ecotourism isn’t a trend, it’s a state of mind and if you’re into exploring natural areas that conserve the environment and support local communities, then take this trip to Mallorca! Book your ferry tickets to the eco-friendly island of Mallorca, make some good memories and leave only footprints😊.

Tip: don’t forget to download our Ferryhopper App to buy your ferry tickets easily!