Places of interest #1 in Escorca

Mirador Embassament de Cúber

4.7 · 1,349 reviews
Quiet and ruggedly expansive
Mirador Embassament de Cúber, 07315 Escorca, Illes Balears, Spain
Interesting facts
1

The Cúber reservoir was formed by damming a natural valley to increase the water storage capacity for the capital city of Palma.

2

Puig Major, which towers over the reservoir, is officially restricted to military personnel at its summit due to radar installations.

3

The reservoir area is a primary habitat for the Balearic toad, a species protected within the Serra de Tramuntana.

4

The site acts as a major junction for the GR221, a long-distance trail traversing the mountain range from Andratx to Pollença.

5

Despite its high elevation, the reservoir is part of an artificial hydraulic system that relies on gravity-fed pipelines to transport water across the island.

Overview

The Mirador Embassament de Cúber serves as the primary observation point for the Cúber reservoir, a critical water supply source for Palma de Mallorca. Located in the Serra de Tramuntana, the reservoir sits directly beneath Puig Major, the island's highest peak at 1,445 meters. The site is a central nexus for hikers navigating the GR221 Dry Stone Route. Its waters are contained by a man-made dam that integrates into the karst limestone topography of the mountain range. The area is characterized by high-altitude vegetation including holm oaks and endemic flora adapted to the rocky terrain. As a protected natural area, the reservoir supports a controlled micro-ecosystem that attracts various species of water birds. The mirador provides clear lines of sight toward both the dam structure and the surrounding jagged peaks. The reservoir's water levels fluctuate significantly based on winter precipitation and seasonal irrigation demands.

Photo spot

The viewpoint platform directly overlooking the dam wall provides the most expansive panoramic framing of the reservoir and Puig Major.

Insider tips

Bring a windbreaker or outer layer, as temperatures at this elevation are significantly lower than on the Mallorcan coast.

The terrain is uneven and rocky; wear supportive hiking boots rather than sandals.

Carry sufficient drinking water, as there are no shops or refreshment stalls at the reservoir itself.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to swim in the reservoir or leave marked trails, as both are prohibited to protect the water quality and local ecosystem.

Etiquette

Strictly pack out all litter to protect the protected water catchment area; swimming and water sports are prohibited.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45 minutes - 1 hour
Best time to visit
Early spring or autumn, when the weather is mild and the reservoir levels are typically higher.
Address
Mirador Embassament de Cúber, 07315 Escorca, Illes Balears, Spain
39.786, 2.793
Get directions
Details
Terrain typeHigh-altitude mountain basin
Hiking connectivityGR221 Dry Stone Route

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45 minutes - 1 hour to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early spring or autumn, when the weather is mild and the reservoir levels are typically higher..

The viewpoint platform directly overlooking the dam wall provides the most expansive panoramic framing of the reservoir and Puig Major.

Close by you'll find Ferrocarril de Sóller - Estació de Sóller, Mirador de Gorg Blau, Coll de L'Ofre.

Spain

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