Living Moments - N°3 Edition 2015/16

7TaTYR 8ZXPY_^ Edition 3 · 2015/16 134 tional community of the almost perfect symbiosis of centuries-long influence of mankind and nature, from which an immense human achievement has come into being, where culture, tradition, aesthet- ics, spirituality and identity blend into each other. The first proof of human existence in the Serra de Tramuntana comes from a time 5,000 years ago. Later, the new settlers from the Talayotic, Romanic, Moorish and Christian eras left their traces. The evidence of human intervention in the landscape is clearly shown by the erection of various structures using the dry stone technique: terraces, charcoal barracks, water channels, etc. The country road of the Serra de Tramuntana con- nects 19 villages and offers stunning views of the northern coast of Mallorca. There are numerous historical remains on this road: defence towers, manors, monasteries, churches, Talayotic settle- ments, castles, even palaces from Mallorca’s royal dynasty. Hiking and cycling: The outdoor haven Tramuntana The Serra de Tramuntana is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking and cycling are the preferred activities among holidaymakers who look for more than bathing fun and water sports activi- ties in their vacation on Mallorca. An extensive, ramified network of hiking trails leads past sharp rock edges, dramatic gorges and bizarre stone gar- dens. A holiday home in Sóller, a typical finca in the mountain village of Valldemosa, or a chic pent- house in Puerto de Andratx are the perfect start- ing points for eventful hikes in the Mediterranean climate. Discover the spectacular Torrent de Pareis Canyon with its impressive micro climate and the sombre cave abyss of Sa Fosca. Narrow mountain roads and unpaved paths wind through the Serra de Tramuntana up to the peaks of the mountains. In spring, mountain bikers and racing cyclists bust- le through this mountain region. The rugged na- tural landscapes fascinate both nature lovers and sports-mad holidaymakers. Cultural landmarks and religious sites in the Tramuntana The oldest testimony of human activity in the mountain region is the remains of so-called snow houses near Massanella. Once, the structures situ- ated at enormous heights served for the storage of food and ice. Insulating materials such as straw were used for the construction of huts in order to preserve the ice of the winter from thawing as long as possible. You can view the snow houses on your next vacation in Mallorca. The monastery of Santuari de Lluc is among the most significant reli- Ohne jeglichen Einsatz von Maschinen wurde diese Straße von 14 Kilometern Länge, die sich nur über vier Kilometer Luftlinie erstreckt, von Hand gebaut This 14-kilometre road was built by hand without the use of any machines – it stretches over a distance of a mere four kilometres