100 Kilometers through the Llevant: New GR 226 Long-Distance Trail Opened

New trail connects eastern Mallorca: GR 226 has opened

Early in the morning on Plaça d'Artà, when bakers pull the last loaves from the oven and larks sing over the almond groves, you notice: there is room for something new. This new route is called GR 226, officially East Mallorca, a long route now fully walkable that connects 100.4 kilometers of landscape along the Llevant; further coverage is available in East Mallorca GR 226: New Long-Distance Trail Between Opportunity and Strain.

What was built — and by whom?

The route is the result of a joint initiative by the five Llevant municipalities Artà, Capdepera, Manacor, Sant Llorenç de Cardassar and Son Servera. Construction was the responsibility of the Consell de Mallorca. The investment amounts to just under one million euros — not a giant project, but enough to mark paths, install information signs and create two access routes that complement the main trail.

Route profile and intended users

With a total length of 100.4 kilometers, the new long-distance trail consists of a main section of 89.62 kilometers, divided into four stages, plus two side routes as access points. The difficulty level has been deliberately kept low. Families with children, older walkers and leisure hikers should enjoy it as much as day visitors who want to explore short sections.

How does GR 226 fit into the island network?

GR 226 is the third long-distance connection on Mallorca. Together with the well-known routes GR 221 (Ruta de Pedra en Sec) and GR 222, the island's long-distance trail network now covers about 600 kilometers. For the east coast the new trail provides a complement: less steep paths, different vegetation, different villages; it spreads visitors and brings new routes into tourism planning.

Why this is good for Mallorca

The municipalities aim to extend the season and shape tourism more gently — away from heat and crowded beaches and toward hiking, small guesthouses and local experiences. On a sample stage you can hear, apart from hikers' footsteps, the wind in the gorse, the clatter of a textile workshop in Manacor and occasionally the distant bark of Scottish shepherd dogs in Son Servera — this mix of nature and everyday life is a plus for locals and visitors alike.

Practical tips for initial outings

The stages are planned so you can arrive and depart easily by public transport; many starting points are near villages with accommodation options. Sturdy shoes are usually sufficient, and those walking in spring should bring a light jacket — sea breezes can be surprisingly cool. Respect for terraced landscapes, a sense for reducing litter and consideration for agriculture are part of hiking in the area.

Opening day and first impressions

The official inauguration took place near Cala Agulla; the date was 17 February 2026. Anyone strolling on the beach that day saw not only tourists but also locals curiously exploring trail sections. Small bars along the route served coffee, and conversations about weekend plans made it clear: the route is not just being created on paper, it is slowly becoming part of everyday life.

Looking ahead

GR 226 is not a self-starter. For the trail to have impact it needs signage, municipal work and networking with transport and accommodation. The positive is that the groundwork is done. One idea already: a four-day stage from Artà to Capdepera offers culture, quiet coastal views and small country inns — ideal for a short escape from everyday life.

Conclusion: A new trail has opened that gives eastern Mallorca a voice. On an evening walk, when Mallorcans sit on the village square and coffee cups clink, you notice: this is what sustainable tourism can look like — more connected, slower and local.