Popular with hikers on Mallorca, Sóller is both gateway to the Tramuntana and starting point for coastal tours. The picturesque town is famous for the oranges and lemons grown in the valley. Lesser known yet of stunning beauty is the Sóller garden route. A circular hike through unique cultural landscape.
Along terraced olive orchards and citrus groves. Past blooming gardens and secluded villas. And there is a different view of the mountain range or the sea behind every bend. This pleasure hike may not be as challenging as some of the Tramuntana climbs but it is just as rewarding.
The Ascent
In the morning, the beach promenade of Port de Sóller is still sleepy, the sea calm and crystal clear. Perfect for a swim. Today, however, the path leads uphill from the end of the village. Along ancient olive trees in bizarre shapes sparking your imagination.
You discover dancing couples frozen in mid-motion, bears and elephants. But you also come across real sheep and donkeys. In the course of the hike, a road sign even points out passing cats. And indeed, you’ll meet many of them on the Sóller garden route.
Café with a View
Shortly after the turnoff to Béns d’Avall, a narrow path leads further up to the historic estate Son Mico. Where the sisters Inés and Isabelle Coll run a wonderful small café. Inviting you to take a break on the terrace, savor a piece of homemade cake or quiche and a coffee.
And marvel at the view over the valley before continuing the hike a bit further upwards. Passing more stunning retreats with fabulous gardens, full of flowers and blooming trees.
Cultured Landscape
Cobblestone steps lead you down, then, through the terraced slopes of the valley. You cross the tracks of el tren, the historic railway that has connected Palma and Sóller for more than a century. And as you come across landscaped yards and orchards of oranges and lemons, again, the Sóller garden route lives up to its name, once more.
Historic Train
Heading back to Port de Sóller, there are two options to close the circle. You can either follow the GR 221 or take the tranvía from the center to the harbor. It looks a bit touristy, and it is, of course. On the other hand, locals also use the tram as a regular means of public transport. And the ride in the historic carriages is really quite something.
Anyway, a decent hike should end with a decent refreshment. A dip into the Mediterranean, maybe. Or an ice cream made from Sóller oranges. Enjoying the abundant nature effortlessly, now, the perfect end for a pleasure hike. 
If you want to learn more about the Mallorcan flora, take the opportunity to visit the Jardí Botànic de Sóller. More than 1,000 Mediterranean species are growing here.
