As the vibrant colours of spring paint the landscape, it's the perfect time to head for adventure! This season offers an ideal window for outdoor enthusiasts, allowing you to embark on picturesque journeys before the scorching heat of summer takes hold. We have prepared an overview of our top 3 spring hikes, which all accidentally turn to be island crossings and can be completed in around one week. Brush off those hiking boots and prepare to explore the enchanting terrains of Mallorca, Madeira, and Tenerife.
1. Mallorca GR221 - charming and accessible
Distance: Approximately 135 kilometers
Duration: 8-10 days
icture this – craggy mountains, lush olive groves, and the sparkling Mediterranean playing peek-a-boo. It's like a real-life postcard. So lace up those boots, and let the adventure unfold against the backdrop of Mallorca's stunning landscapes. We recommend to hit the trail in April - chance of rain will be getting low and sunshine will not be draining your energy as fast as in May.
Start: Trail officially starts in Port d'Andratx but more for those short on time it might be more convenient to start from Sant Elm
End: Typically hikers wrap up the adventure in Pollença but those craving for complete through hike might continue to Cap de Formentor
Embarking on the GR221 adventure in Mallorca not only promises stunning landscapes but also comes with the convenience of accessibility and charming towns scattered along the way. As you traverse the craggy mountains, you'll encounter charming towns like Estellencs, Valldemossa, and Deià, each offering a delightful blend of local culture and picturesque surroundings, all of them well connected by public transport. Convenience does not spoil the adventure but you should also not expect complete wilderness experience. Instead you'll have plenty of options to modify your agenda in case after several tough hiking days you would feeling like having a day by the beach!
In fact the key to defining your adventure is choosing suitable accommodation options. Mallorca opens up a wide spectrum options: comfortable hotels, cozy hostels, refuges strategically nestled along the trail or wild camping. Keep in mind that camping is not legally permitted along the GR221 so if you're tempted to pitch a tent or simply sleep under the stars make sure to stick to "Leave No Trace" principle. For those looking for a bit more convenience refuges might be an excellent option as most of them are conveniently positioned along the trail and won't take much from unique experience in exchange for shower and mattress. Most of them have limited space and can fill up quickly, so booking well in advance can save you some hassle.
The journey across Mallorca is as much about the exploration of landscapes as it is about immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of local life along the way. Whether you choose to indulge in local cuisine, visit historical landmarks along the way, or fully dedicate your time to nature - Mallorca and it's Serra de Tramuntana mountains won't leave you disappointed.
2. Madeira's Crossing - wild & green
Distance: Around 100 kilometers
Duration: 4-7 days
Going to Madeira is like stepping into a nature lover's dream: rugged terrains, flourishing laurel forests, and the vast Atlantic Ocean as your constant companion. Madeira is not as easily reachable as Mallorca but recently there are direct flights from most of the western and central European countries. Eventually having a stopover in Lisbon is certainly a good idea!
The island in know for it's "eternal spring" weather conditions all year long but winter and early spring can bring some rain higher in the mountains. Our recommendation is to head out in early May when weather is rather stable. However, do not forget that you're surrounded by Atlantic and some weather surprises could be expected anytime.
Start: Your exploration officially begins in Machico. For those looking to streamline their journey, commencing from Portela might be a practical choice.
End: Trail conveniently descends to Porto where natural swimming pools await
Madeira lacks the convenience of dense mountain hut network and well-developed public transport but you still can get by just fine. Unlike in Mallorca, there won't be many possibilities to stay in hotel but instead you can legally camp for free as long as you book your spot on the official website. This also means that your expedition will have more of a wilderness flavour. However, some parts of the trail might be quite crowded, for example picturesque section between Pico Arreiro and Pico Ruivo. On the other hand, there will be also sections where you will hardly meet anybody else for hours.
A special aspect of hiking in Madeira are levadas - narrow man-made channels that carry water from the mountainous interior to various agricultural regions and settlements along their path. One intriguing aspect of the levadas is the water they carry. The clear, freshwater flowing through these channels is sourced from the island's natural springs and high-altitude streams. While it is generally not recommended to drink water directly from streams or rivers, some hikers choose to purify the levada water using reliable water purification methods. Boiling, using water purification tablets, or carrying a portable water filter can help make this water safe for consumption. Having water accessible through most of the trail can allow you to save couple of kilograms on your back. It's also worth mentioning that most of official camping places have potable water sources.
The journey across Madeira will certainly be one of those adventures you'll remember for long. We suggest to rush as island is becoming increasingly popular and genuine wilderness experience might be slowly fading away. Special tip for the end - you definitely want to see a sunrise from the top of Pico Ruivo!
3. Tenerife GR 131 - walk on the moon
Distance: Approximately 90 kilometers (+ Teide)
Duration: 5-6 days
Tenerife, an island paradise in the Atlantic, does typically associate with year long sunshine and beach holidays but it's also an outdoor paradise! Hiking, cycling or water sports options are almost endless. Our suggestion is though to fully immerse into it's nature while trekking along GR 131 trail. March is time when the island's weather is delightfully mild and perfect for outdoor exploration.
Start: Begin your Tenerife escapade in the town of Arona.
End: Wrap it up at La Esperanza or continue further to Anaga Rural Park.
This hike will require quite a bit of preparation. Trail itself is well signposted and it's hard to get lost even without proper navigation. However, proper planning of overnight stays and efficient management of your food and especially water supplies is essential. There are no springs along the route, it is necessary to replenish in towns along and there won't be many of those on your way.
Camping is unfortunately not legally allowed but if you decide to pitch your tent for the night make sure to adhere to Leave No Trace practices. Nights in Tenerife come with a special bonus - stargazing, which is a truly enchanting experience thanks to clear skies and lack of light pollution. Whether camping or not try get away from town for few hours during nigh time, allowing constellations and galaxies to paint a celestial masterpiece overhead.
Around second or third day of your adventure you'll have to decided whether you want to make a detour and climb Teide. Getting to the summit of the highest mountain of Spain (3715 m. a. s. l.) is rather challenging. Trail itself is smooth but elevation might drain your energy. If you're looking to make it even more special try to ascend it for the sunrise - true a celestial spectacle. A remarkable addition to this experience is the mesmerizing phenomenon of Teide's shadow being cast upon the ocean below.
Going up to Teide will likely require to add an extra day to your itinerary but it's totally worth it. Make sure to pack warm clothes as it gets windy and cold at any time of the year. Also make sure to book your permit for summit access in advance!
offers plenty of options for additional activities. For those still full energy it's worth to consider exploration of Anaga Rural Park, for the others stopover in Santa Cruz de Tenerife can add a touch of cultural exploration or few days at the beach of San Andres can bring your tired legs back in shape.
Wherever you go you'll have a great time!
There are definitely more places to explore in spring but these are definitely our favourites. Mallorca's GR 221 invites you to explore craggy mountains and charming towns, striking a balance between convenience and wilderness. Madeira's Crossing unfolds a wild paradise, complete with levadas and the Atlantic's majestic backdrop. Tenerife's lunar landscapes in the GR 131 culminate with a sunrise ascent of Teide, casting its iconic shadow upon the ocean.
Embrace the adventure wherever you go, and remember, the best view comes after the hardest climb – both on the trail and in life!
Once you are back from you adventure, don't forget to stop by at Mountain Mode and check our latest collections for nature lovers.
