Run the traverse of Mallorca's Serra de Tramuntana
Trail run the rugged spine of Mallorca along the GR221, a spectacular trail that traverses the Serra de Tramuntana mountains - a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s most inspiring destinations for trail runners.
This route is a dream for runners: wild limestone peaks rising above a jade-green sea, pine forests lining the ridges, and flowing singletrack connecting timeless mountain villages. The trails weave through olive groves and citrus orchards, over ancient stone paths and panoramic ridgelines, offering both technical challenges and fast, runnable stretches. The Serra de Tramuntana is now part of the UTMB World Series.
This is the hidden Mallorca, far from the crowds - where every stride immerses you deeper into the island’s natural beauty, history, and exhilarating terrain.
Highlights
- Run through this UNESCO World Heritage landscape
- Traverse the Northern Mallorcan coast and mountains
- Rest and recovery time on glorious beaches
- Immerse yourself in the islands ancient history and culture
- Stay in characterful and quaint Mallorcan villages
- Spend the night at the world famous Lluc Monastery
- Be prepared to be amazed by this island landscape
The island of Mallorca, in the Mediterranean Sea, has been a stop off for seafarers since antiquity, giving the landscape a rich and varied history. Throughout our journey we pass through quintessential Mallorcan villages linked together by ancient mountain trails.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Serra de Tramuntana has been awarded this status in recognition of its unique Mediterranean agricultural landscape. A landscape that over the centuries has been transformed by humankind from a scarce resource into a 'productive and well-adapted settlement'. This has been achieved through a system of terraces and cobbled roads, combined with a network of irrigation channels. The landscape illustrates the fascinating mix between the Muslim and Christian cultures. A combination of the Arabic water harvesting and management technology with the agricultural know-how introduced by the Christian conquerors who took over the island of Mallorca in 13th century AD.
Holiday Reviews
Grade: Intermediate
READ GRADE DESCRIPTIONAt a Glance
| Holiday Type | Trail Running |
| Duration | 9 Days |
| Group Size | 4-10 |
| Minimum Age | 18 |
| Maximum Altitude | 1365m (4477ft) |
| Countries Visited | Spain |
Dates and Prices
2027 Departures
| Code | Start Date | Return Date | Duration | Price | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTR1 |
15 May 2027
Saturday |
23 May 2027
Sunday |
9 days |
£2,745
Deposit: £700 |
Spaces Available | Book Now |
2028 Departures
| Code | Start Date | Return Date | Duration | Price | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTR1 |
13 May 2028
Saturday |
21 May 2028
Sunday |
9 days |
£2,910
Deposit: £700 |
Spaces Available | Book Now |
What's Included
- The services of a fully qualified International Mountain Leader
- Six nights half board accommodation in 2/3/4* hotels; breakfast and dinner, based on two sharing
- Night in the world famous Monastery of Lluc, very comfortable and with modern facilities
- Night in a traditional Mallorcan mountain refuge at Tossals Verds, dormitory style accommodation
- Transfer back to Palma airport from Port de Pollença at the end of your trip
- Daily transfer of your luggage, except for Refugi Tossals Verds
- Picnic lunch from Refugi Tossals Verds
What's Not Included
- Lunches on 6 days
- Travel to meeting point
- Travel Insurance - required
- Miscellaneous personal spending
Itinerary
Today you arrive in the Balearic Islands ready to start your journey. You will most likely arrive into Palma de Mallorca, the capital. The city itself is worth a visit, and arriving a day early allows you to explore the shops and alleyways. From here, you need to travel west to the picturesque fishing village of Port d'Andratx, where we will spend the first night. Your guide will meet you at approximately 1800 hrs on the first evening where you will discuss the days ahead and ask any questions you may have.
Setting off from the Coll de Sa Gramola we have a short downhill before our climb of the day into what feels like wild, rocky and unspoilt terrain. On the route we will pass remote farm houses and rocky pasture lands where the local people graze their flocks in the springtime. As with much of the Serra de Tramuntana there is a feeling that few people venture along today's trail, and it is unusual to meet other groups. The route at times is barely distinguishable, with just the occasional rocky cairn to indicate that we are still following the GR221. All the while the views stretch to the Mediterranean in the west, and to the mountains of the Serra to the north. Eventually, the path gains the ridge line and we climb steadily to our high point of the day at 800m (2624ft). It provides time to reflect on the local name for the GR221 - Ruta de pedra en sec, Dry Stone Route - which pretty much sums it up! It owes its name to the local craft of constructing dry stone walls without the use of mortar, with the stones ordered according to a tried and tested technique. This method is used for houses, wells, underground springs, snow huts, paths, canals, tanks, and of course paths! We finish our day by traversing under the limestone peak of Moleta de S'Esclop, then dropping downwards to the village of Estellencs where we spend the night. The town is a typical jumble of houses between steep and narrow streets, really lovely.
Ascent: 571m (1872ft) Descent: 771m (2528ft) Distance: 14km (9 miles) Duration: 4h30 - 05h00
Today is a runnable stage with panoramic views, and time to enjoy an old royal route which joined the towns of Estellencs and our destination at Esporles. We'll run on paved and terraced bridle paths, passing stately homes of the nobility, such as Son Serralta, Es Rafal and Es Collet, and the other families who continue to be part of the history and economy of the area. Leaving the village of Estellencs, we take the trail towards Banyalbufar, working our way past the historic 'grand' houses of the past. An old stone opening leads us into the holm-oak wood and a well defined bridlepath. Holm-oaks, with their evergreen leaves, are to be found all over the Serra and provide welcome shade on hot summer days. We follow the line of the coast north-eastwards until we arrive at a pass offering splendid views of the Planicia valley, while in the background the peaks of the Serra - Punta de Soller, Sa Foradada, and Puig Major, which sits at 1445m (4739ft) and is the highest peak in Mallorca. Arriving at the beautiful terraced village of Banyalbufar is a highlight of today with its ancient houses and views to the sea. Leaving the village we climb east towards our destination at Esporles, enjoying the last of the 'Cami des Correu', the name given to the royal way which dates back to 1401.
Ascent: 530m (1738ft) Descent: 490m (1607ft) Distance: 14.5km (9 miles) Duration: 04h00 - 05h00
Leaving the ancient village of Esporles we climb steadily this morning until La Mola de Son Pacs which gives a surprising diversity of habitats; limestone hills, deep watercourses, woods, rocky outcrops and fissures. In the past the woodland provided raw materials for road building, coal mining, and lime working, as well as supplies for the shepherds, hunters, and lumberjacks. It's a true journey into history with a sense of prehistoric and Islamic times. After our climb we are rewarded with views out to the sea and a cliff top resting point to reflect on our efforts. We continue through woodland, first keeping our height and then starting to descend. We have constant reminders of the land-use of previous generations. At the end of our descent we find the gorgeous village of Valldemossa where a coffee/ice-cream stop is a must. This is the village of composer Frédéric Chopin and Aurore Dupin. Aurore, a French novelist who wrote under the pseudonym George Sand, had a much publicized affair with Chopin. The GR221 then leaves Valldemossa and enters a private natural conservation area managed by the ‘muntanya del voltor’ organisation (literally meaning the mountain of the vulture). A steady climb through the woodland along the Ranxo d’en Sutro gains the Mirador de ses Basses before linking with the Archduke's Trail to reach Deia. Arguably one of the best runs on the island the Archduke's Trail offers fabulous sea views before we move on to an old mule track down to reach Deià, yet another 'gem' of a village.
Ascent: 1345m (4411ft) Descent: 1420m (4657ft) Distance: 20km (12.4 miles) Duration: 06h00 - 06h30
We are in no rush to leave Deià with its steep narrow streets and ancient houses as we have a relatively short day to our destination at Port de Sóller. So why not start with a morning dip as the cove at Deià is stunning with jade green and blue waters, go do some stretches to give our body some love after the efforts of the last days. Deià has been and still is a refuge for painters, writers and musicians, among them author Robert Graves who penned 'I,Claudius'. He spent much of his life in Deià and his mortal remains lie in the village cemetery. Our run today has views of the Llucalcari coastline, and the village of Deià itself which seems trapped in a time warp surrounded by palms and wild flower meadows. We'll run towards the coast until we reach the Muleta refuge, next to the lighthouse which illuminates the port of Sóller. We aim to arrive at Port de Sóller by mid afternoon, giving plenty of time to explore the Port, or simply lie on the sandy beach and soak up the sun.
Ascent: 242m (793ft) Descent: 424m (1390ft) Distance: 12km (7.5 miles) Duration: 04h00 - 04h30
An easy start to a long day with a ride on the only operative tram in Mallorca, a true relic from the past, all mahogany and bass fittings. Or we can start running from our accommodation to the town of Sóller. We'll run through the town, with ancient streets and villages, before we begin our climb through a spectacular rocky gorge. Much of the path is paved and feels ancient, passing as it does by the raised waterways and irrigation channels that for centuries have fed the pastures and communities. We follow the Barranc de Biniaraix, an old stone path made up of 2,000 stone steps, which leads us deep into the valley of Ofre, overlooked by the rock formation of the same name. Arriving at the Coll de L'Ofre we are rewarded with views to the green waters of the Cuber Reservoir below us, and views of the islands highest peak, Puig Major at 1445m (4739ft). After reaching our second pass of the day, the Coll des Coloms, we drop onto the south side of the Serra on a rocky path until we reach the ravine of the Torrent d'Almadra. Here we will use chains as a handrail to climb a spectacular rocky ledge, with some exposure, to ascend the Pas llis. The trail remains challenging as we contour round the mountain to arrive at the lovely Refugi Tossals Verds, a traditional stone mountain refuge set amid orchards.
Ascent: 1310m (4296ft) Descent: 857m (2810ft) Distance: 17.5km (11 miles) Duration: 06h30-07h00
No access to luggage tonight
Leaving the Rifugio we have a steady climb through the oak woods, as we head towards our high pass via ancient trails, taking us past natural fountains, and stone built aqueducts. There is history at every turn! The way now crosses the heart of the Serra de Tramuntana: the limestone mountain range with its sculpted ridge lines, views to the sea, and the fascinating 'snow storage huts' built into the mountain. We pass the highest peaks - the Puig Major, which is the highest mountain in Mallorca, but is not accessible due to a military installation on its summit, and the Puig de Massenella, the highest trekking peak at 1364m (4473ft). At the Coll de n'Argento we continue on our route to the Monastery of Lluc where we will spend the night. The Monastery, dating to the 13th century, is unique in the Serra de Tramuntana and it is a rather special place to spend the evening. En route there are up to twelve examples of the traditional 'snow huts', Les Cases de Neu, where the snow was collected during the winter and then stored for many months. In Mallorca the first reference to obtaining ice from snow was recorded in 1564.
Ascent: 784m (2571ft) Descent: 823m (2699ft) Distance: 14 km (9 miles) Duration: 05h00 - 06h00
The Monastery of Lluc has long been considered the spiritual heart of Mallorca, and before we leave we hope that you have found time to learn about the history and culture of an island people. So, leaving the tranquility of the Monastery behind us we begin today's run. It is a gentler run than previous days, and begins by climbing through the oak woods, to the Son Amer Refuge: another fine example of the stonework of the local craftsmen, and which has connections dating back to the Templar Knights. On our way through the forest we see further fine examples of stonework, in particular the 17th century raised irrigation canal of the S'Ermita spring. A reminder of the importance of the ability to channel water to the fields and the livestock. We finish our GR221 of the Serra de Tramuntana by running along the river valley to the ancient town of Pollença. The town is situated between two small hills: the Calvari with its 365 steps that takes you to the oratory that crowns it, and Mount Maria at 325m (1066ft). We then take a transfer to our overnight by the sea at Port de Pollença.
Ascent: 220m (721ft) Descent: 654m (2145ft) Distance: 18km (11.5 miles) Duration: 03h30 - 04h00
This morning we take a private transfer to Palma airport, which is included in your trip fee and Tracks and Trails services end after the transfer to join your onward travel. We will aim to arrive at the airport for 1000hrs. Do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your flight departure times. If all guests are due to fly out later in the day then we can consider a later transfer to the airport. Otherwise, you are welcome to take the local bus service at a time which suits you. You may choose to spend another night in Palma, or extend your trip for a few days on the beach at Port de Pollença.
It is our aim to complete the proposed itinerary outlined above, however, it may be necessary for our guides/instructors to adjust the daily itinerary based on the weather conditions, group safety and enjoyment.
Accommodation
We aim to accommodate our guests in well-situated, clean, characterful, family run accommodation. Our trip fees are based on two people sharing a bedroom, what we call a 'twin' means two single beds in one bedroom. If you are booking as a single traveller you will share with someone of the same gender. A single room may be available for your private use, but requires early booking and will incur a supplementary charge. For further details refer to Trip Information > Single Supplements. Our suggested accommodation, listed below, is subject to availability at the time of booking and is an indication of our accommodation, not a guarantee. Note it is unusual to have air conditioning in bedrooms in the mountain areas where our trips take place. If you have any questions about the accommodation please contact us.
On this trip the accommodation will be in hotels which range from 2* to 4* depending on the location. There will be one night in a refugi, a Spanish mountain hut, at Tossals Verds, where accommodation will be in mixed gender dormitory style rooms. This type of rooming is quite normal in the mountains and is all part of the experience. Please note that the Spanish title of 'Hostal' simply means hotel, and should not be confused with the English word 'Hostel' which refers to more basic accommodation used by groups.
Hotel Brismar, Port Andratx
The Hotel Brismar is situated in the heart of Port Andratx, a beautiful natural harbour, only 50 m from the beach and the town centre.
The promenade with its harbourside restaurants, bars and shops is just 100 m away from the Hotel Brismar. The location will provide a fitting start to your holiday. You can relax with an early morning coffee with stunning views over the water and prepare for days walk.
Hotel Maristel, Estellencs
The 4* Hotel Maristel is a traditional Mediterranean-style building situated woodland in the hills.
At the Hotel Maristel Many of the rooms have sea or mountain views, are all en suite, often with marble floors, and with a terrace or balcony. The hotel also has a spa with a swimming pool, sauna, Turkish bath, and jacuzzi. The bedrooms all have air conditioning.
Hostal Sa Baronia, Banyalbufar
Hostal Sa Baronia is a charming, family-run guesthouse nestled in the picturesque village of Banyalbufar on Mallorca's tranquil northwest coast.
Set between the sea and the mountains, this historic 16th-century building offers a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the UNESCO-listed Serra de Tramuntana mountains.
After a hard day on the trail, the pool at Hostal Sa Baronia is the perfect place to unwind. With panoramic views over the Mediterranean and the surrounding terraced hillsides, it’s a peaceful, sun-drenched spot to cool off tired legs, stretch out in a lounger, and soak in the serenity of Banyalbufar.
Hoposa Costa D'or Lluc, Llucalcari
After a rewarding day on the trails of the Serra de Tramuntana, arriving at Hoposa Costa D'Or feels like stepping into a dream.
Whilst Hoposa Costa D'or Lluc may prove to be a bit of a mouthful you will appreciate the location of the hotel, perched above the sea in the peaceful village of Llucalcari, this adults-only hotel offers us a serene retreat to recover and recharge. The infinity pool, with its sweeping views over the Mediterranean, invites you to sink into stillness, while the scent of pine and sea salt lingers in the air. Whether you're sipping a cold drink on the terrace or easing tired muscles in the calm water, it’s the perfect end to a day of wild beauty and mountain adventure.
Hotel Gran Soller, Soller
Hotel Gran Soller is tucked away in the heart of Sóller, this refined hotel offers a tranquil oasis just steps from the lively town square.
At the Hotel Gran Soller you can relax in the serene garden and pool area - an ideal way to soothing tired legs. Others may wish to relax on the rooftop terrace and soak up the mountain views.
St Lluc Monastery, Deia
Overlooked by the Puig de Massanella mountain, the highest trekking peak in Mallorca, the St Lluc Monastery is a haven of tranquility and contemplation.
When you walk off the trail and into the stone paved courtyard it really does feel as though we have arrived somewhere a 'little different' to our normal accommodation. The Monastery has been an integral part of Mallorca life for many centuries.The bedrooms are not exactly monastic! The rooms are bright, and spacious and all have private bathrooms and central heating, with several offering wonderful views to the mountains. The restaurant at the Monastery serves Mallorcan cuisine, and the grounds hold a Museum where you can learn about Mallorcan life and culture, and there is also a Botanic Garden.
Hotel Sis Pins, Port de Pollença
Hotel Sis Pins is to be found on the beach front in Port de Pollenca. It is close to the marina, restaurants, and various shops and is a great base for this coastal village.
The rooms at the Hotel Sis Pins are all twin rooms with two beds, but they can arrange a double bed if you wish. Rooms have en suite bathrooms, hairdryer, air conditioning, fridge, as well as tea and coffee making facilities. There is wifi throughout the hotel. If you would like a beach towel you can get these from reception.
Trip Information
Arriving by ferry
Ferries can be taken from mainland Spain with frequent crossings from Barcelona, Valencia and Denia on the east coast. If choosing to drive you will then travel to our meeting point in the lovely seaside village of Port d'Andratx.
Arriving by air
You can fly to Palma de Mallorca, often known simply as Palma, from a range of international airports. Flights are usually frequent from the major cities of Europe. Information about Palma Airport can be viewed here.
You can then take the bus from Palma Airport to Port d'Andratx, changing in Palma centre. It is a 15 minute bus ride to Palma centre and then 1 hour to Port d'Andratx. Buses run regularly throughout the day and timetables can be found here you can also use Rome2Rio to view the schedules. Private airport taxis can be booked from Palma Airport to Port d'Andratx for up to 4 people, book here or with Taxi PMI who work across the island.
Departure
This morning we take a private transfer from Port de Pollença to Palma airport which is included in your trip fee. We will aim to arrive at the airport for 1000hrs. Do not hesitate to contact us to discuss flight departure times. If all guests are due to fly out later in the day we may adjust our departure time. Otherwise, you can take the local bus service at a time which suits you. You may choose to spend another night in Palma, or extend your trip for a few days on the beach. Bus timetables can be found here.
It is your responsibility to ensure any insurance taken out is appropriate for your trip and the activity you will be undertaking. Tracks & Trails cannot advise on insurance policies or be held responsible if, in the event of a claim, your insurance is inadequate.
Activity, Injury and Mountain Rescue It is a condition of booking you are insured for mountain rescue, medical expenses, injury, illness, death, cost of repatriation and personal accident risks. The exception to the mountain rescue insurance requirement is if the trip is taking place in the United Kingdom or Norway where mountain rescue is free of charge. Ensure your insurance covers you to the maximum altitude given on your trip itinerary. The maximum altitude can be checked in the 'At A Glance' box on the trip page.
Trip Cancellation/Curtailment Insurance Insurance should be booked as soon as we confirm your trip is going ahead. Deposit and balance payments are non-refundable unless it is Tracks and Trails who cancel the trip due to a failure to reach the minimum numbers required. In this case we offer a full refund or the option to transfer to another trip.
Baggage Loss/Equipment Damage We advise insurance which covers baggage loss/equipment damage.
All the above is detailed in our Terms and Conditions. For further information on insurance options click here.
When packing for a trip in the mountains it is important to have appropriate equipment and clothing. This kit list features items we believe are necessary for the weather you might encounter and accommodation you will be staying in. If you have any questions with regards to what to bring, do not hesitate to get in touch with us.
Equipment
Trail Running shoes - for a variety of trails
Running poles - highly recommended for long climbs/mixed terrain
Running pack/vest maximum 20 litres, ideally with a chest and waist strap. Test your pack for comfort once full
Rucksack liner/cover - to keep contents dry
Water container 1-1.5 litres, or 2 x 'soft' flasks
Survival blanket 1.40m x 2m minimum
Clothing
You must be able to cover yourself with 3 full layers on your upper body and 2 full layers on your legs
Waterproof jacket with hood - waterproof and breathable membrane designed for mountain use
Waterproof over trousers
Mid-length tights and longs socks or long running tights to cover the legs completely
Thermal top – long sleeves
Thin fleece/lightweight down jacket
Running shorts/skort
Breathable t-shirt/vest
Warm hat
Ear/headband
Baseball cap/sun hat
Gloves x 2 - 1 thick and 1 thin pair
Running socks
Recovery socks/compression socks - optional
Scarf/buff for neck
Fleece/ wind stopper waistcoat - optional
Comfort
Lip salve
Sunscreen
Sunglasses – essential
Toilet/tissue paper - we recommend biodegradable bags to dispose of rubbish
Snacks for running - bars/gels /energy drinks/trail mix/recovery drinks etc
For use on the nights when you are in Refuge/Hut accommodation
Lightweight pack towel
Sheet sleeping bag 'liner' - for use under the blankets/duvet provided by the Refuge. We have some for hire if necessary, contact us to reserve
Personal First Aid
Personal medication – if required
Blister Plasters
Normal Bandaids
Blister tape - eg Strappal
Pain relief/anti-inflammatories
Glucose tablets
2 x Re-hydration sachets
A few throat lozenges
Anti-chaffing cream/Vaseline
Antiseptic cream/spray
Bandage/Knee support
Documentation
Cash – Euros
Credit card
Passport
Waterproof bag for documents
Mountain Rescue Insurance - compulsory
GHIC - if travelling from UK for medical cover
Additional Items
Camera
Phone that will function in the countries that you are visiting
Clothing for use in hotels
Swimwear
AirTag or similar to track luggage
Ear plugs – recommended if sharing a room
Head torch - also useful when sharing a room
Maps can be bought locally - not essential
Heart rate monitor – if owned
GPS watch/phone - to track your route, optional
Toiletries - soap/shower gel as not all accommodations supply this
Padlock - for luggage being transferred
1 Medium sized - kitbag/holdall/suitcase
Check out the What kit to bring Blog post on our website for further advice on:
the minimum requirement the racers carry
weight saving ideas
how to waterproof your kit
ideal trail shoes for the route
nutrition advice
Your luggage will be moved each day by a taxi driver. The legal maximum weight limit is 15kg (33lbs) per person. If your luggage exceeds this limit it will not be collected. You can take only ONE luggage bag on the trip. Not all hotels have 'lifts' and you must be able to carry your luggage upstairs.
**Supplementary snacks if you follow a gluten free or coeliac diet**
On many trips there will be an element of 'group kit'. This kit will will be minimal and usually a case of sharing a few lightweight 'survival shelters'. For example, on a week-long trip you may carry a shelter for one day before passing it to the next person. If you are booking a trip in winter there will be a few additional safety items, such as a snow shovel, probe, spare ski pole etc.
When booking a holiday as a solo traveller a twin bedded room comprising of two single beds, is booked as standard. This will be with someone of the same gender unless you request to pay extra for your own room. Single rooms are often limited in supply so if you would like to pay a supplement for a single room we urge you to get in touch as soon as possible. This trip has a single supplement of £690 in 2027 and £730 in 2028.
We have graded this trip Intermediate because they cover medium distances for runners, however keep in mind that the temperatures can be quite warm. You can read the grades in full here. You can also read the statistics with regard to running distance, ascent, descent etc on the daily itinerary.
On this point-to-point trip you will have luggage support on all but one of the nights, which means your bags are transferred each day to the next accommodation and you only need to carry a small/medium sized 'rucksack' for items you might need during the course of the day. Please refer to the kit list for this trip for guidance on the size of rucksack required. On the night you are in the mountain Refugi at Tossals Verds you will need to carry a few extra items in your rucksack.
As your luggage will be moved along the route by taxi we ask that you keep the weight to a maximum of 15kgs (33lbs), and ONE bag per person. Many of the taxi companies who move your bags impose a 15kg (33lbs) limit and restrict the number of bags simply because they have to unload and reload the vehicle many times each day. If you take more than one bag you may be asked to pay a supplement. Also with regard to weight be aware that you may have to carry your luggage to your bedroom, which may involve climbing several flights of stairs as not all hotels have elevators. Luggage on wheels is generally a good idea.
The statistics given on your itinerary relating to ascent, descent and distance should be used as a 'general' indication of the effort required. This is a guideline to help you decide if, based on previous experience, your fitness and stamina are correct for the trip. We ask you to note that the even the most modern of technology can show considerable variations in terms of ascent, descent, and in particular distance.
In Mallorca, which is in the Balearic Islands, in Spain, the summers are short, warm, humid, dry, and mostly clear. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 5°Celsius (41°F) to 30°Celsius (86°F) and is rarely below 1°Celsius (34°F) or above 33°Celsius (92°F). In the months we run our trips the temperatures are perfect for getting into the mountains. In May the temperatures range from 15°Celsius (59°F) to 23°Celsius (73.2°F) and in September between 20°Celsius (68°F) to 28°Celsius (82.4°F).
Food On our trips we encourage you to experience local tastes and dishes. If you are vegetarian catering for your diet is not generally a problem. If you have a 'special' diet because of an allergy/intolerance we ask that you make your needs clear on your booking form so we can discuss your requirements with the accommodation. A diet that is not related to an allergy/intolerance or beliefs cannot be catered for. It is simply not possible for mountain accommodation to deal with many variations in diet while providing meals for groups.
In addition, if you have an allergy/intolerance we would suggest you bring/purchase suitable snacks as a supplement to the picnic lunches. At times finding gluten free bread, for example, can be an issue. If you would like to discuss the suitability of a trip for a vegan diet, gluten or lactose intolerance please contact us. We request that you do not CHANGE your dietary requirements during the trip as we will have pre-ordered your meals.
Water If the accommodation has a problem with the water supply they will post a sign over the tap indicating that you must not drink the water, otherwise it is normal to drink from the tap. Hotels - It is not uncommon for restaurants to charge for tap water at the evening meal. If this is the case then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost. Mountain Huts - If your trip features a stay in a mountain hut/refuge and the tap water is not potable then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost of bottled water at the evening meal. Sparkling water is not included in this option and any cost should be covered by you.
Plastic credit or debit cards or smartphone pay systems are increasingly accepted throughout the areas where we run trips. Some countries, such as Norway, are moving towards a cashless society. However, in Europe, in the mountain areas where we run trips, a small amount of cash in the local currency is useful. For example, if you stop at a family-run mountain cafe or farm they may not accept cards or smartphone systems, and cash will be necessary. We recommend having enough cash in the local currency to pay for a few snacks and drinks. Whether to bring cash or not is at your own discretion.
A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required. We suggest keeping your passport in your rucksack, and a paper copy of your passport in your luggage. If your trip does not include luggage support carry a paper copy with you, but separate from your passport. You should check passport requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate for the country you are visiting, paying attention to your citizenship. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Visa requirements and charges are subject to change without notice.
NEW European Travel Regulations 2026 If you are travelling to Europe you may be impacted by a change to travel regulations. In the last quarter of 2026, the European Commission will roll out a U.S. style electronic travel authorisation system for visitors from countries that are currently not part of the EU. It is your responsibility to check for updates with regard to the introduction date.
We recommend you check if you require an adaptor for your electrical items at: Plug, Socket & Voltage by Country
If your trip involves staying in a mountain refuge/rifugio/hut a slimline and lightweight 'battery pack' can be useful for recharging phones etc. This type of accommodation will generally have electricity, but it may be limited in supply, and it is not always possible to charge items.
If you would like help preparing for your adventure you could consider booking a Quick Fix session with personal trainer Kate Brown. This is aimed at those who want to get ready for any of our Summer activities. Your booking with Kate will involve a 45 minute 1:1 video consultation and action plan. You can read more about her ethos and experience here.
We also offer free training videos on our YouTube channel:
Tracks and Trails pays guides/instructors a fair and appropriate fee for their professional service. If you feel your guide/instructor has provided an excellent service that went 'above and beyond' then it is at the discretion of each guest whether to tip or not. Guests will often give a tip of between 2 - 5 per cent of the total value of their trip. It is entirely up to you and any gesture will no doubt be appreciated no matter the size.
Before booking consider whether you expect to be in the appropriate physical condition on the date of your departure to allow you to fully participate in and enjoy your holiday. If you have any doubts because of an illness or injury it would be advisable to check with your doctor. We advise you always carry your insurance documents with details of the Emergency Medical telephone number for your insurance provider, and your policy number.
GHIC For UK residents travelling to an EU country you should obtain and bring your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). The GHIC gives access to state healthcare in Europe either free or at a reduced cost. The GHIC is not a substitute for medical travel insurance.
EHIC If you have a UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) it will be valid until the expiry date on the card. Once it expires, you should apply for a GHIC.
We feel strongly about protecting the environment and do not encourage the use of single-use plastic items. We would ask that you arrive with a ‘water bottle’ or ‘hydration system’ that can be used repeatedly. We operate a zero tolerance for rubbish, and would ask you to remove all items from the mountain, this includes toilet tissue, and those items you consider to be bio-degradable.
The waste water in mountain huts, also known as refuges/rifugios, often runs into nearby streams and rivers with a potential impact on the eco-system, though in many places steps are now being taken to avoid this. Whether or not your trip involves staying in a mountain hut we would nevertheless recommend you consider nature friendly sunscreens which only contain mineral UV-blocking ingredients such as oxide, and titanium dioxide.
Working across international boundaries, and with various currencies means the price of our trips can change overnight. We have undertaken to guarantee that once you have paid your deposit the price of your trip is fixed. The website price may increase due to currency fluctuations, but we guarantee that the price advertised on the date of your booking will be maintained.
We believe in team work, and enjoy working with other small high quality companies. All our trips are organised by Tracks and Trails, but you may be joined by guests from other companies. Partners are carefully selected to ensure they reflect our ethos and standards. By working with other companies your chosen holiday may reach its minimum number earlier, allowing us to guarantee the trip and give you the go-ahead to book your travel. We guarantee that companies with whom we work will offer the same price package. If you have any questions about this policy contact us.
We go to great lengths to work with first class guides who are passionate about their work. They are fully qualified, insured, and hold the correct documentation. Your guide has our authority to make any route changes they believe are necessary in the interests of safety and enjoyment. Your trail running guide will be a qualified and experienced International Mountain Leader. IML's are trained to ensure the safe management of the group, but are also a source of knowledge about the local flora and fauna, culuture and traditions. Many of our trail running guides have competed in mountain marathons, and ultra marathons in the European Alps and further afield. You can learn more about our guides and instructors on the About Us page.
We do not include lunches in your trip fee for various reasons, the most important of which is food waste. Most people have particular tastes and requirements for 'trail' or 'hill' food and it is better you purchase your own snacks rather than throw away items from the picnic lunch which we would supply. Lunches on our trips are 'picnic' style lunches, in other words you take a packed lunch with sufficient snacks, food and fluid to sustain you throughout the day. Buying snacks and trying local specialities is a great way to inter-act with local people and to practise your language skills.
If there is the possibility of lunch being taken at a restaurant/farm/cafe beside the trail, your guide/instructor will advise you of this. Each evening you can order a picnic/sandwich from your accommodation, or your guide/instructor will advise you of options such as a local shop or market. In all cases we would ask you to settle any 'bill' for lunch or drinks the evening before you depart, and not in the morning when there may be a queue.
