A hike on the Randa monastery mountain

Distance: 4 km per direction | Duration: approx. 1:15 hours per direction | Level: easily accessible trails, 270 metres of altitude gain

How about a little culture? Stretch your legs and enjoy one of the best views on the island? Then up to the Randa monastery mountain! Yes, that's the mountain you see on the approach to Palma; the hill with the big radar installation on it.

And in fact, Mallorca's flight guidance system is on the Randa mountain.

But climbing a hill for that? Rubbish! There's more! No less than 3 monasteries cling to the mountain like swallows' nests, two of which can be visited.

The road, which is about 5 kilometres long, is a popular training ground for cyclists. So you can't miss the entrance. Park your car in Randa, not far from Llucmajor, and follow the road to the end of the village. Then turn right into the terrain. Leave cyclists and car drivers on your left, cross the road from time to time and don't miss any shortcuts.

At the 1st monastery from the 15th century (Santuari de Nostra Senyora de Gràcia) you can stop for a break. The 2nd monastery (Ermita de Sant Honorat) from the 14th century is something for hermits. You can't get in here. Only a glimpse into the small church is allowed to passers-by. But it is much quieter here and the shady picnic area with a view of the south coast to the Cabrera archipelago is mostly yours alone.

Then it's time to take another bite. The path to the 3rd monastery (Santuari Senyora de Cura de Randa or Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Cura) is long, but worth every metre. Because once you've reached the top, there's hardly a corner of the island you can't see: Alcudia in the north, Arta in the east, Es Trenc in the south, Palma and the legendary peaks of the Tramuntana. What more could a hiker's heart desire? Culture? Coffee? Spanish tapas? Up here on the Randa mountain you get it all. In the monastery garden, the church gates are open, the restaurant spoils you with snacks and plenty of picnic spots are available.

Once you've had your fill, head back along the same path.

And if your stomach is rumbling again at the bottom, treat it to a real local dish at Celler Randa, directly opposite the car park. This is where the taste of the island comes to the table!