GR 226 Long-Distance Trail: New East Mallorca Route Opens in December

Finally Official: GR 226 Connects Llevant

You can feel it for days in villages: more backpacks, conversations about maps and a few new signposts that still smell of fresh paint. The planned long-distance trail GR 226 is expected to be opened to the public in December, according to the people in charge. The route runs through five Llevant municipalities – Artà, Capdepera, Manacor, Sant Llorenç and Son Servera – and finally brings a long-awaited route to the east of the island.

What’s coming: length, stages, difficulty

In total, about 100.4 kilometers are indicated. The main path is divided into four stages and comes to around 89.6 kilometers; there are also two short access routes. The planners emphasize that the route is overall not technically demanding – ideal for families, older hikers or those who prefer walking along the coast and through pine forests. If you start in Capdepera, you quickly notice: tradition meets new hiking enthusiasm here.

Who’s behind it and what has been invested?

The responsibility lies with the Mallorca Island Council (Consell), which oversees the construction work and estimates the investment at just under one million euros. On Thursday there was a tour in Capdepera around 11 a.m., with almost late-summer weather – 20 degrees and a light breeze. In addition to the president of the Island Council, representatives from the Environment and Tourism departments were also present. In brief speeches, the idea was emphasized: stretch the season and orient tourism more sustainably.

Work that is still ongoing

What you can currently see: removal of obstructive vegetation, earthworks and leveling. There will be safety barriers later and proper signage. Anyone who has stood at the edge with a dog named Toni (true story, I saw it) knows: good markings are worth their weight in gold.

Why this is important for the East

GR 226 complements the existing long-distance routes in the west and north of the island – the well-known GR 221 and GR 222 – and lifts the overall scope of the long-distance paths even higher. For the five involved municipalities, that means new visitors who come outside peak season and the chance to strengthen local businesses in the off-season. At the same time remains the challenge: maintain the paths, protect nature, balance residents and visitors.

One final tip: If you want to start in the first weeks after opening, go in the morning hours. The air smells of pine, the cafés in the towns open early – and you’ll usually meet friendly locals who are happy to show you a stretch of the way.