Spring is not only high season for cycling, it’s also my favorite hiking time. Before the summer haze sets in, the air is still clear, the views are unparalleled and the contours sharp against the blue sky. The climb to a puig (hill) of the Tramuntana mountains often rewards you with a spectacular 360 degree panorama of the complete island.

We started our recent hike with a nice and easy walk along the Cúber, Mallorca’s largest water reservoir, heading south on GR 221. Sad to say that after an unusual dry winter the lake is not even halfway filled, now, but the blue water and the gray rocks that surround it still make for an impressive contrast. Eventually we passed an iron cross, where hikers from all directions like to pause, just to enjoy the scenery. I looked up at the mountain top to my left: Puig de L’Ofre – this was where we’re heading.

And sure enough, after about 30 more minutes clambering up we enjoyed the view vice versa: the two signature rocks of Alaró and the valley of Sóller, further down its beautiful port and a stretch of the coastline. The unmistakable radar dome on top of Puig Major, and down below the Cúber, looking like a turquois medal. Got to be careful not to slip over the edge of the narrow mountain top while turning around to admire the breathtaking beauty to my feet. Wow! Sweat and effort are forgotten right away in view of the overwhelming scenery amidst this world heritage landscape.