Trekkers of the world to unite

NORDIC walking and hiking are set to bolster the Mallorcan tourist economy during low season as upwards of 300,000 climbers, ramblers and roamers from Germany, Austria and Switzerland look set to take advantage of the island’s fantastic routes and pleasant winter climate. 

The vast numbers expected are no accident. Many towns and regions, including Pollensa, Soller and Arta have been actively pitching themselves at tourist fairs in northern climes for years, marketing Mallorca as a premier hiking destination. 

Tour operators are offering all-inclusive packages which combine hikes catering to all tastes with cultural and gastronomical expeditions. It’s an incredibly popular tourist market and tens of thousands attend fairs in Europe’s colder countries each year, each with an increasing Balearic presence. 

Hiking tourism offers something of a magic elixir for Mallorca, helping the government meet its target of attracting more guests in low season to help balance the economy, while being environmentally friendly and indeed raising awareness of the island’s unique natural highlights.