Ascending Rateta

The path to Rateta was challenging, with rocky terrain making the air feel even hotter despite occasional patches of shade from trees. We accidentally took a detour but quickly corrected our course. Following blue trail markers and piles of rocks, we navigated the rocky ascent, our attention focused on each step. As we climbed higher, the breathtaking views of surrounding mountains, some covered in grey rocks and stones and others green trees, began to unfold. The final approach to the peak involved a zigzagging path on the mountain’s edge, leading us to a verdant slope before we reached the summit.

Climbing Franquesa

This section was again challenging, with the wind making it feel refreshing despite the day’s high temperatures. We paused for a lunch break under a nice shade from a tree, enjoying our Lidl-sourced meal with a fantastic view of the peak we had just climbed. We also enjoyed the view of two vultures who were majestically flying in the blue skies. After lunch, we continued our ascent, following a zigzagging, rocky path to Franquesa’s summit. The view from the top was breathtaking, but we soon had to tackle another steep descent.

The Steep Descent to the Third Peak, l’Ofre

The descent from Franquesa was steep and required careful attention, but it wasn’t long before we reached a flatter section with more trees and grass-covered stones. We continued on a well-defined path towards our third peak, l’Ofre, enjoying the shade provided by the trees. After a brief break, we encountered another couple having lunch but pressed on, following a pleasant track to l’Ofre’s summit.

Completing the Loop

As we neared the end of our hike, we were rewarded with views of the three peaks we had conquered, standing proudly side by side. The sense of achievement was immense as we closed the loop and returned to Cuber, where we were greeted by wild goats and a herd of donkeys. Exhausted and sweaty but elated, we drove back to our hotel, enjoying showers to wash away the day’s dirt and sun lotion. We spent a cozy evening watching football and enjoying a nice dinner, already planning our next day’s adventure on the Archduke Trail, where we hoped to see even more vultures.

Our loop hike from Cuber to the peaks of Rateta, Franquesa, and l’Ofre was a challenging yet incredibly rewarding adventure. The breathtaking views, encounters with wildlife, and sense of accomplishment made every difficult step worthwhile. Hiking in Mallorca proved yet again to be full of surprises and positive experiences.