In the summer months I usually don’t go hiking. Actually, there are a few walks that you can do even in July and August. Recently, friends told me about their favorite summer hike from Esporles to Estellencs. Across fabulous Tramuntana landscape with stunning views of the coastline. And mostly on shady trails.

Starting in Esporles the old postman’s route soon enters ancient holm oak forest. Sunbeams fall through the light foliage on the cobbled path. Maybe you encounter a group of margers, the masons who maintain the dry-stone walls and -trails in the Tramuntana. Currently they focus on straightening the walls on the GR 221, the popular Ruta de Pedra en Sec.

Before the path descents to Banyalbufar we turn left and follow the trail along the coast. Once in a while you get a glimpse of one of the secluded houses on wide private grounds. When we get to a terraced olive grove we meet other busy workers, bees collecting pollen. Then, the landscape changes again. The path gets steeper and for a while it leads through tall grass and low pines.

Finally, we reach Estellencs, the small sleepy village at the foot of the Tramuntana. A couple of bars take care of the hungry and thirsty cyclists and hikers who enjoy their break with a marvelous view of the bay. The yellow-red tib bus will bring you back to Esporles or Palma. At least, if you take the right bus stop at the end of the town. The one at the church is only a drop-off for incoming busses.