Mallorca Ma-10 Road Trip: The Ultimate Scenic Drive Through the Tramuntana Mountains

Everyone knows Mallorca for is its Mediterranean beaches, crystal-clear waters and lively resorts, but the island has another side that is equally spectacular: the rugged landscapes of the Serra de Tramuntana. Rising dramatically along the north-western coast, this UNESCO World Heritage mountain range combines spectacular cliffs, ancient villages, olive groves, stone terraces and centuries of history. One of the best ways to discover this extraordinary landscape is by car, motorcycle or bicycle along the Ma-10 in Mallorca, one of the island’s most scenic roads.

The Perfect Ma-10 Mallorca Itinerary

Stretching for approximately 110 kilometres from Andratx to Pollença, the Ma-10 crosses the heart of the Tramuntana Mountains and connects some of Mallorca’s most beautiful villages, from Estellencs and Banyalbufar to Valldemossa, Deià and Sóller. But unlike a conventional route connecting towns, this mountain road is an attraction in itself.

The road winds through the Serra de Tramuntana, frequently climbing high above the Mediterranean before descending towards isolated valleys and historic settlements. Around almost every bend there is a new viewpoint. For this reason, it is worth allowing considerably more time than the approximately 110-kilometre distance might suggest. A journey that could technically be completed in a few hours becomes much more rewarding when you stop at viewpoints, explore villages, have lunch and take short walks.

Starting Your Mallorca Road Trip in Andratx

The natural starting point for a Ma-10 road trip is Andratx, in the south-western corner of Mallorca. From here, the route heads towards the mountains and quickly begins to reveal the spectacular scenery of the Tramuntana.

The first section of the drive is characterised by winding roads, wooded hillsides and panoramic views over the Mediterranean. It is an excellent introduction to what lies ahead and a good opportunity to become accustomed to the bends before reaching the more challenging mountain sections.

Estellencs: A Small Mountain Village Above the Sea

One of the first major stops on the Ma-10 Mallorca itinerary is Estellencs, a small and picturesque village built into the steep slopes of the Tramuntana.Its traditional stone houses and narrow streets blend naturally into the surrounding mountains.

The village is an excellent place to take a break from driving, enjoy a coffee or simply admire the relationship between Mallorca’s inhabitants and the mountains. Stone terraces and dry-stone walls have shaped the terrain for centuries, creating a distinctive cultural landscape that is one of the defining characteristics of the Serra de Tramuntana.

Banyalbufar: Terraces and Mediterranean Views

Continuing along the Ma-10, the road reaches Banyalbufar, another spectacular mountain village overlooking the sea.

Banyalbufar is particularly famous for its traditional agricultural terraces descending towards the Mediterranean. These terraces are an impressive example of how generations of Mallorcans adapted the steep terrain for cultivation.

For visitors travelling the Ma-10 from Andratx to Pollença, Banyalbufar is perfect for a short stop. You can explore the village, enjoy the views and, if your schedule allows, take some time for lunch before continuing north.

Valldemossa: History, Architecture and Culture

Further north, the Ma-10 reaches Valldemossa, one of the most famous villages in the Serra de Tramuntana.

Valldemossa is known for its beautiful stone architecture, narrow streets and historic atmosphere. The village is particularly associated with the Royal Charterhouse of Valldemossa, where composer Frédéric Chopin and writer George Sand spent the winter of 1838–1839.

This stop is great for travellers interested in the cultural and historical side of Mallorca. Allow at least a couple of hours to leave the car, walk through the village and visit its historic sites.

Deià: One of Mallorca’s Most Beautiful Villages

From Valldemossa, continue along the Ma-10 towards Deià, another iconic destination in north-west Mallorca.

Set dramatically beneath the mountains and overlooking the Mediterranean, Deià has long been associated with artists, writers and musicians. Its stone houses, steep streets and spectacular surroundings give the village a distinctive atmosphere.

Deià is best explored slowly. Park your vehicle, walk through the historic centre and stop at one of the viewpoints to admire the surrounding mountains and coastline.

For many travellers, the stretch between Valldemossa and Deià is one of the highlights of the Ma-10 scenic drive.

Sóller: A Perfect Overnight Stop

The next major destination is Sóller, located in a fertile valley surrounded by the Tramuntana Mountains. Traditionally associated with citrus cultivation, Sóller combines a historic town centre with easy access to the coast and the nearby Port de Sóller.

If you are planning a two-day Mallorca road trip, Sóller is an excellent place to spend the night. Take time to explore the town, have dinner and enjoy the atmosphere before continuing towards the more mountainous northern section of the route the following day.

Sa Calobra: The Most Famous Ma-10 Detour

One of the most spectacular detours from the Ma-10 is the Ma-2141 road to Sa Calobra. For driving enthusiasts, this is arguably one of the highlights of the entire Mallorca road trip.

The road descends dramatically through the mountains towards the coast, with a remarkable series of hairpin bends. Its most famous feature is the “Tie Knot” (Nus de Sa Corbata), a spectacular 360-degree bend where the road appears to loop back underneath itself.

The road eventually reaches Sa Calobra and the entrance to the spectacular Torrent de Pareis gorge.

Because of the demanding driving conditions and the time required to explore the area, we suggest you to treat Sa Calobra as a dedicated excursion rather than a quick photo stop. Drive carefully, particularly when encountering buses, cyclists and vehicles coming in the opposite direction.

Cap de Formentor: Another Iconic Detour

Towards the northern end of the route, another famous excursion is the road to Cap de Formentor via the Ma-2210.

The road leads across the spectacular Formentor peninsula, where mountains plunge towards the Mediterranean and dramatic viewpoints overlook the coastline. The final destination is the famous Formentor lighthouse, one of the most recognisable landmarks in northern Mallorca.

If you want to include Cap de Formentor in your Mallorca road trip itinerary, check current access regulations before travelling, particularly during the busy summer season, as traffic restrictions can apply.

How Many Days Do You Need for a Ma-10 Road Trip?

For a fast scenic drive, it is possible to cover the main route in a single day. However, this leaves limited time for exploring the villages and taking in the viewpoints.

A better option is a two-day Mallorca Ma-10 itinerary:

• Day 1: Andratx → Estellencs → Banyalbufar → Valldemossa → Deià → Sóller
• Day 2: Sóller → Tramuntana mountains → Sa Calobra → Pollença, with Cap de Formentor as an optional additional excursion.

This itinerary provides a much more relaxed experience and gives you time to stop for photographs, meals and short walks.

Practical Tips for Driving the Ma-10 in Mallorca

Before starting your Ma-10 road trip, keep a few practical points in mind. The route is a mountain road with numerous bends, steep sections and occasional narrow stretches. Drive at a moderate speed and be particularly careful around blind corners.

Cyclists and motorcyclists are common throughout the route, so give them plenty of space when overtaking and expect slower traffic.

It is also worth starting early, especially during the high season. Early mornings generally provide a more relaxed driving experience and better opportunities to enjoy the viewpoints without large crowds.