What to do · Sóller and the Serra de Tramuntana
Biniaraix Gorge, from Sóller to the Coll de l'Ofre
Information
- Price
- Free
- Duration
- 5 h 30
- Distance
- 8.5 km
- Season
- All year; in summer, set off at dawn. Avoid it in rain
- Who it's for
- Fit walkers; with children, only the first stretch
- With a dog
- On a lead
What it is
The cobbled path that climbs through the Biniaraix gorge, among olive terraces and dry-stone walls, from the hamlet of Biniaraix to the Coll de l'Ofre. It is one of the best-known stretches of the Ruta de Pedra en Sec, the GR 221, and a landscape protected as a Site of Cultural Interest.
What it is like
From Sóller's square you reach Biniaraix in about 20 minutes by the path that leaves beside the torrent, about 2.5 km according to the Consell's track. There the climb begins: about 6 km more and 800 metres of ascent on stone steps and ramps to the Coll de l'Ofre, at 900 metres, with the Puig de l'Ofre beside it and, on the other side of the pass, the Cúber reservoir. In all, about 8.5 km and 850 metres of climbing from Sóller. Out and back by the same path, allow 5 to 6 hours. If you just want to see it, walk up the gorge for an hour and come back: it is the prettiest part.
Getting there and parking
On foot from the centre of Sóller. By car, park at the entrance to the town: the centre is a low-emission zone and Biniaraix has very little room. Without a car, bus 204 from Palma drops you in Sóller.
Things to bear in mind
The Consell rates the whole stage as high difficulty because of its length and ascent. The stone steps are slippery in rain and the gorge has no shade in the middle of summer days. There is no drinking water on the path.
Tips
- Do it downhill The Consell notes that the stage is easier in the opposite direction. With a support car or a taxi to Cúber, you walk down the gorge to Sóller instead of up it.
- Set off very early in summer At midday the gorge is an oven.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Biniaraix gorge hard?
It is demanding because of the ascent, about 800 metres from Biniaraix, but the path is good and cobbled.
How long does it take?
About three hours up from Sóller to the Coll de l'Ofre, and a little less down.
Can I take a dog?
Yes, on a lead: it is a public path between private estates.
With teenagersWith a dog
