The MA-10 is one of the most impressive roads to experience in Mallorca. This breathtaking route runs through the entire Serra de Tramuntana, a mountain range in the west of the island that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The road begins in Andratx and winds through the mountains, past the most picturesque villages, all the way to Pollensa. Here you can expect breathtaking views of the sea and the mountains, as well as many hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.
A scenic ride, which has often been used for one or two commercials
Picturesque olive groves, almond trees and pine forests create a fascinating landscape that changes with the different seasons. In spring, the almond trees are in full bloom, while in autumn the leaves of the deciduous trees shine in a beautiful palette of colors. Regardless of the season, the MA-10 road always offers an unforgettable sight and view.
The road has a combination of wide curves and tight hairpin turns that make the ride challenging and exciting. In some places, the road can be so narrow that drivers must be quite careful with the gas. Nevertheless, the ride is very rewarding as the road passes through the most charming and historic points of the Tramuntana. Among them Estellencs, Banyalbufar, Valldemossa, Deià, Fornalutx or Sóller.
From Sóller, you will drive through the mountainous landscape to Gorg Blau. The road winds through the mountain landscape and reaches its highest point on the way to Sóller at the reservoirs Gorg Blau and Cuber. The drive is particularly impressive in the early morning hours, when it is still quiet on the road and you can easily stop and breathe in the landscape. Feel free to read our post about a fantastic hike around the Cuber reservoir.
Another highlight of the route is the section after the Puig Major, the highest mountain on the island. The so-called "Coll dels Reis" leads on narrow switchbacks to Sa Calobra along the coast. The drive is undoubtedly spectacular, but requires some nerve, especially with oncoming traffic. Sheep and donkeys also cross the way. In Sa Calobra, you can park for free before 9am and take a short walk to the impressive Torrent de Pareis. Don't forget to plan your trip carefully and bring enough water and sunscreen, especially in the warmer months.
Top viewpoints
The MA-10 offers many breathtaking viewpoints that offer spectacular views of the landscape and the sea. Here are some that you should not miss and are easily accessible by car:
- Mirador de Ses Animes: The viewpoint El Mirador de ses ànimes is located in the southern part of the Sierra de Tramuntana between the two special towns of Banyalbufar and Estellencs. From here you can enjoy breathtaking sunsets and climb the Verger Tower
- Mirador de ses Barques: About ten kilometers before the small town of Sóller is the Mirador de ses Barques, where many motorists like to stop on their journey between Sóller and Pollenca to enjoy the breathtaking view of the port of Port de Sóller.
- Sa Foradada: To the south of the port of Sóller, is the peninsula of Sa Foradada. The perfect vantage point to take souvenir photos. Sundays are particularly busy.
- Mirador Ricardo Roca: The Ricardo Roca viewpoint, also known as Mirador des Grau, is located on the outskirts of the village of Estellencs. About 4 kilometers from Estellencs, on the road towards Andratx, you reach a small tunnel called "des Grau". The viewpoint is located just above
- Mirador Es Colomer: Mirador Es Colomer is a spectacular viewpoint located a little further north of Mallorca, not along the MA-10. Although Mirador Es Colomer is a bit remote, its unique location at the top of the Formentor Peninsula makes it a must-see for those who want to enjoy one of the best views on the island.
Hidden 'Pearls
There are also several beautiful bays that should not be missed. Here follows a listing:
- Sa Calobra: This is a secluded beach at the end of a long and winding road that descends through a narrow gorge. It is a beautiful place with crystal clear waters and breathtaking views.
- Cala Deià: A beautiful cove surrounded by cliffs, this place is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It is located a short drive from the MA-10 and is worth a visit.
- Port de Sóller: In the northwestern part of Mallorca is the secluded Port de Sóller, a pretty coastal village that has become famous and popular mainly for its historic tramway, the large bay with protected harbor and its natural environment.
- Llucalcari: A secluded cove that can only be reached on foot. This place offers crystal clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Port D'es Canonge: This port is located very close to the town of Banyalbufar. It is a small gravel bay, which has served for decades as a shelter for fishing boats. Since the bay is open to the north, there can sometimes be considerable waves. To plan a day at the beach, it is advisable to keep an eye on the weather forecast
- Port de Valldemossa: An enchanting bay surrounded by former fishermen's huts, which now serve as summer residences. Apart from the breathtaking scenery, the bay also offers small and cozy bars and restaurants where you can enjoy delicious regional dishes.
Local culinary delights along the MA-10
For those who are exploring and need refreshment, there is a wide range of culinary options along the route. There are some outstanding local restaurants to visit, bringing excellent traditional Mallorcan cuisine to the table.
- Restaurant Es Guix: This exceptional restaurant is located in a unique location near Sóller and guarantees a unique experience. Located in the middle of the forest, it blends seamlessly with the surrounding nature. The restaurant's cuisine specializes in fish and seafood dishes and the view of the surroundings is like a fairy tale.
- Restaurant Ca's Xorc: The restaurant Ca's Xorc is located in Sóller and belongs to a boutique hotel in the mountains. From there you have a breathtaking view.
- Restaurant Ca'n BoQueta: Located in Soller, this elegant restaurant with stone floors and a covered terrace specializes in preparing upscale Mediterranean cuisine.
- Restaurant C'an Costa: Located in Fornalutx, the restaurant C'an Costa offers breathtaking views of the mountains and the valley. The restaurant's Mediterranean cuisine is particularly noteworthy and is complemented by an extensive selection of wines. The restaurant is housed in a house dating back to 1594.
- Restaurant Es Raco des Teix: This restaurant in Deià is known for its creative Mediterranean cuisine and wine list. It has a Michelin star and is a popular destination for gourmets.
- Restaurant Patro March: Ca's Patro March restaurant has long had an excellent reputation and is very popular with many guests. It is located right on the water and rises majestically on the left side of the rocky Cala Deià bay. It has always been a place where you could possibly meet a famous person during lunch (or dinner in July and August).
Art and culture along the MA-10
The MA-10 also has a lot to offer culturally. There are both historic monasteries and contemporary art galleries to discover along the route. Below are some of the most outstanding museums that can be visited along the MA-10.
- The Son Marroig Museum: This is an impressive castle in Deià that houses a collection of artwork, furniture and historical artifacts that reflect Mallorca's aristocratic past.
- Can Prunera Museum: A beautiful Art Nouveau building in Sóller that houses a collection of works of art and design objects. Here you can see works by artists such as Picasso, Miró and Warhol, as well as a variety of furniture and decorative objects.
- The House Museum of Robert Graves: Here you can get an insight into the life and work of the famous British writer, who lived in Mallorca for many years. The museum in Deià displays personal belongings, letters and manuscripts of the author.
- Museum of Pollensa: A 16th century monastery that now serves as a museum of art.
- Frédéric Chopin and George Sand Museum: In Valldemossa there is a museum housed in the same premises where Chopin and George Sand lived during their stay in Mallorca in 1838 and 1839. In this museum you can see the original piano that Chopin used to compose his Préludes and other musical works.
- The majestic Charterhouse of Valldemossa. It is possible to visit a palace that was built as early as 1309. In this estate you can admire a magnificent church whose frescoes were created by Bayeu, brother-in-law of Goya. Also worth seeing is a beautiful long corridor with white arches that leads to the various cells where monks found peace and quiet over a period of 400 years.
Have you explored the picturesque MA-10 in Mallorca and discovered the hidden treasures in the Serra de Tramuntana? If not, you are definitely missing out!
I'd love to hear your thoughts on this - it's worth it!
