A circular walk around a lesser-known peak overlooking a tangle of ancient trails and archaeological remains

The Puig dels Avencs (518 m) takes its name from the cluster of vertical chasms near its summit. Though relatively unknown, this peak in the municipality of Andratx stands guard over the Coll de la Gramola, a strategic saddle between valleys, where old paths once converged—and still do today. Historically, this natural lookout likely served as a surveillance point between the northern valleys of Andratx and the great basin formed by the Coma Freda and Coma Calenta.

Numerous trails—many of them now incorporated into the Ruta de Pedra en Sec (GR-221)—have long connected Andratx with the western slopes of the Serra de Tramuntana. One such trail, the Camí Reial d’Estellencs, has since vanished, replaced by the modern road built in the early 20th century.

As for the name Coll de la Gramola, it originates from a historic estate documented in the Llibre del Repartiment (1232), once owned by Robert de Gramola. The estate was later divided, and only one section retained the original name. Just like the old estate of l’Evangèlica, of which only a mountain and a pass still carry the name today.

Along the route, we’ll also pass near a small post-Talayotic and Roman archaeological site close to Can Rodella—poorly preserved and pending further excavation, as noted in the local heritage records.

Public transport is available via the L-131 bus line, connecting Santa Ponça and Banyalbufar, which stops at Coll de la Gramola (check schedules at tib.org). Before we set off, a special thanks goes to Joan Carles Lladó, heritage technician from the Andratx Town Council, whose insights helped shape this short but rewarding route.

The Route

[00 min] The walk begins at the public parking area at Coll de la Gramola (360 m), near kilometer 106 of the Ma-10 Tramuntana road, right where the GR-221 passes. We'll follow this route toward the refuges of Galatzó and Coma d’en Vidal. Though initially heading toward La Trapa, we soon veer right onto a dirt path, clearly marked with GR-221 wayposts. This winds through the Comellar de la Guixeria, taking us to the Camí del Rajolí [15 min].

We join the paved road and follow it uphill until we reach the Ma-10 again [25 min], at the Pla de l’Evangèlica. After walking a short distance toward Estellencs, we spot a metal gate on the right, with a stile on the far left. Climb over and begin the ascent toward the Coll dels Coloms, already visible to the southeast. We pass two small buildings—Can Temaand Can Teixidora, the path skirting the latter [30 min].

The trail snakes gently before heading directly toward the pass. Though the way may be partially obscured by undergrowth and fallen trees from past storms, careful eyes will find it without issue.

[45 min] We reach the Coll dels Coloms (412 m). To the left, the cliffs separate us from Coma Clova, Roca Llarga, and Penyal d’en Rico. Ahead lies Coma Calenta, a vast pine forest that we'll descend through later. For now, we turn right (west) and begin ascending the broad crest toward the summit. The trail is well-trodden, clearly marked, and our target peak is in view the entire way. As we climb, sweeping views of Andratx and its surroundings unfold.

Looking northeast, between Puig de l’Evangèlica and Moleta de l’Esclop, we glimpse the Torre Nova de l’Evangèlica, built in 1619. To the west, the last rugged outcrops of the Serra de Tramuntana fade into the distance, ending with Cap del Fabioler and the island of Dragonera, final sentinels of this UNESCO World Heritage chain.

Near the summit, caution is key—this is where the vertical chasms that gave the mountain its name are found.

[1 h 05 min] A large cairn marks the summit of Puig dels Avencs (518 m), perched beside a lone pine and sheer drop. From here, panning from south to west, the views stretch over Cap Andritxol, Puig de la Talaia del Port d’Andratx, Puig de So na Vidala, Penyal d’Anglada, Puig del Tancat, Puig del Campàs (above the Trapa path), and Puig de l’Evangèlica above Comellar del Rajolí.

Descent Begins

With the memory of stunning views still fresh, we retrace our steps back to the Coll dels Coloms [1 h 25 min]. Here, we turn right, following a faint trail toward some old houses currently under restoration, visible from this vantage point. The path drops left beneath the cliffs, descending gently toward a clearing where a dirt track begins [1 h 35 min]. We pass a renovation shelter on the right, then continue down the wide track, suitable for vehicles.

Soon we reach a gate, which can be bypassed on the right. We then merge onto the Camí de la Coma Calenta [1 h 45 min], and follow it uphill toward the Collet, passing Can Rodella on the right. A few minutes later, we emerge onto the Ma-10 road at kilometer 107.3 [1 h 55 min].

This section of road between Andratx and Estellencs was built in the early 1900s, replacing old mule paths, thanks to an initiative by the Foment del Turisme de Mallorca. To return to our starting point at Coll de la Gramola, we can use a surviving stretch of the Camí Reial d’Estellencs.

Just after exiting Camí de la Coma Calenta, we walk a short distance right along the Ma-10 to reach the start of the Camí de la Coma Freda. A gentle descent leads us to the old road, which continues straight ahead. We ignore the path descending to Andratx on the left and take the final few steps uphill to Coll de la Gramola, where this scenic loop comes to a close.

[2 h 10 min]