GR 221 from Valldemossa to Deià, the Dry Stone Route

Valldemossa and Deià are linked by the Ruta de Pedra en Sec, the GR 221 that crosses the Serra de Tramuntana along cobbled paths, terraces and snow houses. The stretch between the two villages is the second half of stage 4, Esporles – Can Boi, which ends at the Consell's refuge in Deià itself. It is a mountain crossing, not a stroll.

The stage in figures

The Consell de Mallorca gives for the whole stage, from Esporles to the Can Boi refuge: 23.1 km, 8 h 10 min, 1,326 m of ascent and 1,387 m of descent, and high difficulty. Starting in Valldemossa saves the first part, but the stretch to Deià is still a long half day with ascent. Along the way, the stage passes the Coma des Cairats and the Son Moragues snow house and has views over Sa Foradada. The Consell warns of a passable but unsignposted stretch through the Son Cabaspre housing estate, on the Esporles side. Download the GPX from the Consell's website before setting out.

How to organise it

The convenient way is to do it in one direction and return by bus. Leave the car in Palma or Valldemossa, walk to Deià and return on TIB line 203, which links Palma, Valldemossa and Deià. Check the day's timetable on the TIB website: at weekends there are fewer departures. If you want to stay overnight, the Can Boi refuge is in the Es Clot district, at the end of the stretch.

What to bring

For the whole route the Consell asks for water and food, a map and torch, hiking footwear, first-aid kit and mobile phone, a cap in summer and a coat and waterproof in winter. Check the forecast before setting out and work out your arrival time carefully: in November it gets dark early.

When to go

Autumn to spring. In summer the heat in open areas is harsh: set off at dawn or choose another route.

With a dog

It can go, always on a lead and under control, as the Consell asks along the whole Ruta de Pedra en Sec. Close any gates you cross: there is livestock.