Which areas of Mallorca offer opportunities to observe free-range goat farming?

Mallorca, known for its diverse landscapes and rich agricultural traditions, offers several areas where visitors can observe free-range goat farming, an important aspect of the island’s rural life. The mountainous regions of the Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provide a natural setting for goat farmers. Here, the rugged terrain and Mediterranean vegetation create ideal grazing grounds. Farmers in villages such as Sóller, Fornalutx, and Pollença often raise goats that roam freely across rocky slopes and olive groves, reflecting age-old pastoral practices.

In addition to the Serra de Tramuntana, the central plains around the towns of Alaró and Mancor de la Vall are also notable areas for free-range goat farming. The relatively open farmland and gently rolling hills allow goats to graze naturally on local scrub and pasture grasses. These areas have a longstanding tradition of producing dairy products, particularly artisanal cheeses made from goat’s milk, which visitors can sample at local markets or farm shops.

Exploring these regions, travelers can often witness herds of goats grazing alongside shepherds who maintain these free-range systems in a sustainable way. This not only preserves Mallorca’s agricultural heritage but also supports biodiversity and landscape conservation. Whether hiking through trails in the Tramuntana or visiting rural farms inland, there are ample opportunities to see this authentic aspect of Mallorcan rural life up close.