The Puig de Massanella is commonly known as the second highest mountain in Mallorca, with a height of 1,365 m (4,475 ft). Some mountaineers say, however, that it is only Mallorca’s fourth highest summit. Be that as it may, the mountain forms part of the Sa Serra de Derrera range, which in itself is part of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. The Massanella lies within the municipality of Escorca.

The Tramuntana mountain range is approximately 90 km long, running from Cap de Formentor in Pollença to Cap de Sa Mola in Andratx, with an average width of 15 km. It runs from south west to north east. 12 km² of the Tramuntana lies above a height of 1,000 m. At that height, there is an average of 14 days of snowfall per year in Mallorca (yesterday was one of them). The highest mountains are found in the central section of the range, with Puig Major (1,447 m), Puig de Massanella (1,365 m), Puig de Tossals Verds (1,115 m) and Puig Tomir (1,103 m) being the highest peaks.

The Massanella mountain offers a relatively good and safe area for a number of walks and hikes, ranging from Grade I+ (easy, but slightly testing) to Grade III+ (slight difficulties). Make sure that you are in a fit state of health when you embark on a mountain tour, though. It is best to consult a guide book of which there are many. Do not embark on a hike beyond your experience or abilities, and best not go it alone.

The photo was taken near Mancor de la Vall, Mallorca, Spain. The date: November 30th, 2008. The time was 13:00:50.