I always loved the book just because of its title. “Ardiente Paciencia” is the wonderful story about the friendship between a postman and Pablo Neruda. Every day, the young man goes all the way to the secluded home of the poet and delivers the letters from his devoted followers. In return, the famous writer teaches him the power of poetry. And thus helps him to conquer the heart of his beloved. Each time I walk along the old postman’s route from Esporles to Banyalbufar, this novel comes to my mind.

The Camí des Correu, literally the postman’s route, is an easy hike through light holm oak forest. Along ancient dry stone walls and past former charcoal burner’s fireplaces. Every now and then, the path opens up to magnificent views of the Tramuntana mountains, the sea and the nearby villages with their perfectly terraced slopes. Don’t miss the many strawberry trees along the route. Children love the idea of strawberries growing on trees. This time of the year, their yellow, orange and red fruit are fully ripe.  And yes, you can eat them. 

Starting from La Granja, the postman’s route slowly ascents on cobblestone and soft forest soil. The old path was already used in the Middle Ages by postmen and merchants. Today, the route is a great tour for the whole family. All the more so, since there are a couple of very nice places like Son Tomas or 1661 for your lunch break in Banyalbufar. Next time I’ll bring my copy of “Ardiente Paciencia” by Antonio Skármeta to read a few pages before heading back.