Why Cycling in Mallorca Is The Bucket List Destination
Mallorca, the jewel of the Balearic Islands, is renowned among cycling enthusiasts as a mecca for riders, somewhere every cyclist MUST visit at least once, for an unparalleled experience on two wheels.
We have all heard the legend of cycling in Mallorca, so having moved to the island last year I have had the pleasure of discovering why Mallorca is considered the ultimate cycling destination globally and share how you can make the most of your cycling holiday or ride here on the island.
Just why is Mallorca the best location for cycling?
The secret is that Mallorca’s diverse landscapes offer a unique blend of challenges and scenic beauty, making it a haven for cyclists of all levels. Honestly, it’s one of the things I love about the island; it’s just so varied in terms of terrain; each route is equally as stunning as the next, which lends itself perfectly to cycling.
From the majestic Tramuntana mountains to the pristine coastal roads, the island has you covered for every cycling preference. If those well-maintained quiet roads (if you pick the time of your visit right), incredible warm sunny Mediterranean climate, and breath-taking views are not enough, then the routes even include historical castles, mountain top monasteries, lighthouses, and, of course, some incredible Mallorcan cuisine.
Quite simply an unmatched cycling experience, a far cry from the gloomy grey rides in the UK, even if you are missing the classic British Country Pub stop-off.
When is best to visit?
While Mallorca welcomes cyclists year-round, with many of the pro teams descending on the island in November & December, the optimal time for a cycling holiday is from late winter to early summer and autumn. I’d recommend avoiding January and February as these are the likely wettest months. December is a beautiful time of year on the island.
The mild winter and spring temperatures generally provide a pleasant riding experience, but it is best to avoid the scorching heat of summer. Spring, particularly, showcases the island’s beauty with blooming flowers and lush landscapes.
March to May is peak cycling season, with most restaurants and hotels open from March onwards, so this would get my vote.
Best location to stay for easy access to the best routes
There are three main options for a cycle and holiday base, depending on what you are looking for:
1. The North
The top cycle base on the island is undoubtedly the North of the Island Pollensa & Alcudia, both good options; we will focus on Puerto Pollensa, situated in a stunning bay with easy access to several popular cycle routes. Although be aware the North of the island is more seasonal, from April to the end of October, there’s plenty of post-ride entertainment, a picturesque town with many great restaurants and bars, although not so much by the way of late-night clubs if that’s what you are looking for. The old town, however, is worth a visit, and the market held every Sunday between 0830 and 1330 is a must with 300 stalls.
Cycle Friendly Hotels Masenses Puerto an adult only hotel and Aparthotel Duva & Spa
2. Playa de Palma
Why not consider basing yourself in the heart of the action if you’re looking for a more high-energy location? Palma de Mallorca, the island’s capital, is an ideal hub. This vibrant city has the best year-round post-ride nightlife, as you would expect incredible restaurants, bars, cafes, art galleries, historic attractions, shops, Port side strolls, and so much more.
Although not in the traditional heartland of cycling on the island, it still provides easy access to an array of cycling routes, ensuring that you can embark on your adventure without wasting precious time commuting, saving on transfer times as it’s closer to the airport and it’s a year-round destination.
Cycle Friendly Hotels Occidental Playa de Palma and Iberostar Crystina
3. Sóller & Port De Sóller
If you’re seeking a base in the mountain region of Mallorca for your cycling holiday, consider the picturesque town of Sóller. Nestled in the heart of the Tramuntana mountains, Sóller provides an excellent starting point for exploring challenging mountain routes while immersing yourself in the island’s natural beauty.
It is a stunning town with some of the island’s best restaurants, coupled with the enchanting Port de Sóller, just a short cycle or tram ride (yes, they have a tram) away with easy access to iconic cycling routes. The renowned Sa Calobra and Puig Major are within reach, providing challenging ascents and rewarding descents amid stunning landscapes.
Cycle Friendly Hotels Soller Plaza and Fergus style Soller Beach
How to organise the ultimate cycle holiday
So, if you have gotten this far, I’m sure you already have one foot on the plane. Before booking anything, you might want to consider your options in organising the type of holiday you are looking for.
Flying Solo
If you love to organize, flying solo might be your best option, piecing your ideal trip together, booking flights, hotels, bike hire, and of course restaurants.
If you are flying solo then there are many cycle hire places to choose from, here’s a few in our chosen base locations.
Pollenca – Pro cycle Hire
Palma – Palma on Bike
Soller – Ultimate Bike Hire
Book a bike tour
If that seems like too much hard work and you prefer to cycle in an organized group where they book every element of your trip, plenty of options are available.
The all-important routes to take
There are so many routes to choose from across the island for varied levels of rider, each equally as spectacular as the next. Here are our top five must-cycle routes.
The perfect coastal cycle
Southern Tramuntana Costal Road, part of the Tramuntanta Mountains from the town of Esporles to Andratx, is more of a gentle ride in terms of hills, as you would expect from a coastal route; it mirrors the coastline with rolling short hills rather than a sizeable mountainous climb.
The sparkling Mediterranean contracted with the Galatzo peak, a broad, quiet road, and a hugely enjoyable ride for your Mediterranean fix. Why not continue onto Port de Andratx? The former fishing village is now a bustling location, one of our favorite spots on the island; check out Tim’s bar at sunset. For years, this has been our happy place before we had the pleasure of living here.
The Icon
Cap de Fortmentor, one of the most famous routes on the island, is a spectacular ride from Port de Pollensa, a 20km winding route along the Northern Peninsular, finishing at the lighthouse on Cap de Fortmentor. The most challenging part of the ride is the initial climb; although it is never too steep, it is a stunning ride, especially the last 4km—a smooth ride with the benefit of cars being now banned from July to August.
Quite simply a must.
The Climb
Port de Soller to Sa Calobra is the most famous climb on the island, with everything you would expect from a perfect climb: snaking hairpin bends, a fantastic road surface, and stunning scenery. This 38 km ride starts in the pretty Port de Soller, another of our favorite spots on the island; the climb includes Mallorca’s highest peak, Puig Major, and even after the climb is done, watch out for the particularly mentally challenging descent.
If you are looking for a challenge then this is it
The Flat One
As you would expect, the central region of Mallorca is mainly flat rolling terrain combined with beautiful historic villages, a fantastic circular 80km loop starting in Alaro along narrow lanes passing through Llosenta and Sineu. Then it’s onto Algaida for a short climb to Puig de Randa, a steady climb with a good road surface and, most importantly, insane views across what feels like the entire island. Afterward, you will descend back to Randa, Alaro, and finally, Santa Maria.
It’s a great alternative and off the beaten track to see real Mallorca.
Perfect family time
Take advantage of the coastal cycling route, perfect for those with younger families or looking for a nice, easy coastal ride. The shortest of our recommended routes at 15km, this runs from the foot of Mallorca’s Bellver Castle or for those that like to shop Porto Pi in the Port of Palma to El Arenal.
Following the cycle path, it runs east to the center of Palma, along the coast for the entire route, with amazing views of Palma Cathedral and the Old Town, and passes through Portixol, El Molinar, and Ciudad de Jardin. It’s a lovely ride, the best way to get to know Palma’s city promenade with its beaches, clubs, bars, restaurants, and hotels, and, of course, the stunning Mediterranean as a backdrop. Once you reach El Arenal, cycle back to Palma along the same cycle route.
The perfect coastal exploration!
For more detailed information on these and more route inspiration then we recommend you check out this link below
In Summary
Mallorca certainly lives up to its reputation as a cycling haven; the more than 150,000 cycling tourists visiting annually are a testament to that.
If you love cycling, you must visit Mallorca for a cycling holiday. With an abundance of cycle-friendly accommodations, easy bike hire options, incredible routes, and the perfect climate, it’s one you will never forget. What are you waiting for? I look forward to seeing you out there!
