Cala Tuent from Mirador de ses Barques
This much enjoyed walk takes you from the Mirador de ses Barques to the unspoiled beach at Cala Tuent passing through the Balitx Valley, over the Coll de Biniamar and along a gentle cliff path. It is one of the most photogenic walks on Mallorca featuring a valley like a rock cauldron and spectacular coastal views. You will also learn about the pirate history of the island and see watchtowers and a defence tower. Depending on the sea conditions you return to Port Soller by boat.
The walk
The walk begins at the Mirador a short distance from Soller. There is a panoramic view over the Port. After a short ascent along an old path you join the Cami Vell de Balitx. It passes beside ancient, twisted olive trees and a finca to the top of the valley. From here you can see terraces reaching high on the side of the valley and a saddle between two mountains (the Coll de Biniamar) in the distance. Following a stone path you descend passing a spring, originally harnessed as a source of irrigation by the Moors 1000 years ago, to the second finca. Adjacent to the finca stands a celebrity olive tree. It is probably the most photographed tree on the island! You continue downhill to the floor of the valley stopping at the final finca, Balitx d’Avall, with its 500 year old defence tower.
After enjoying a freshly squeezed orange juice on the terrace outside there is a steady ascent to the Coll. You then descend through shaded woodland to the coast. The path overlooks the bay of sa Costera. The aquamarine waters shimmer below. You follow this path with its amazing views for almost an hour. Finally you descend to the peaceful Cala and the chance to swim in the clear waters. Overlooking the Cala is the highly regarded es Vergeret restaurant at which a reservation can be made for lunch. The walk concludes with a 40 minute boat return to Port Soller with waterside views of striking cliffs and the chance to see the nest of a sea eagle. Unlike the pirates 500 years ago a friendly welcome awaits at the Port.
“Beautiful countryside, great views and just enough challenges. Jeremy managed to pitch the walk perfectly to all levels.”
Details
Grade: Easy/Intermediate
Distance: 12km
Ascent/Descent: 250m/650m
Duration: About 4 hours
Return time: Usually 5.45pm
Boat options: On group walks we always return by ferry. On private walks there is the option of returning by water taxi or charter boat instead of the ferry.
Extension: Starting the walk in Soller or Port Soller will add an extra 1½ hours to the excursion. Terrain: Earth track and stone.
Checklist: 1.5 litre water, food/snack, hiking shoes/boots, sunscreen and hat or cap.
Price: 50€ per person including ferry ticket. Minimum number for group 4.
For private tour, price on application.