Thinking of cycling in Mallorca? You’re in very good company. Approximately 200,000 cycling tourists visit the island every year, both professional and amateur.
Why cycle in Mallorca?
With its Mediterranean climate, sweeping coastlines, spectacular mountains, and diverse terrain, there’s something for every cyclist who visits Mallorca. The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range runs along the backbone of Northwest Mallorca, providing a fantastic challenge for avid cyclists or a gorgeous scenic backdrop for those who prefer a flatter ride.
Many of Mallorca’s most iconic routes aren’t there by chance. Local engineer Antonio Parietti designed roads such as the snaking Sa Cobra with car tourism in mind. Each of his roads has been beautifully engineered to open up the gorgeous landscape to visitors, perfect for cycling holidays in Mallorca.
When to arrive
The most popular periods for cycling holidays in Mallorca are divided into two seasons, from March to May and from September to October. It’s advisable miss out in the summer months in between, when the highest temperatures average around 30°C. Being peak tourist season, the island’s roads and attractions are at their busiest in the summer months, too.
That said, it’s not unusual to see groups of professional cyclists as early as January, zipping around Mallorca for pre-season training. Those with a keen eye might even spot a few well-known faces.
Where to cycle in Mallorca
Mallorca is such an incredible place for cycling that it would be impossible to detail all the routes here. But, we’ve rounded up three popular destinations for inspiration. Wherever you decide to cycle, take care. Always research your routes thoroughly and get advice from experts.
1. Mallorca 312
If you’re looking to ride with others, Mallorca 312 is an annual event which attracted 8000 riders in 2019. Entrants can choose from three route different lengths (one of which is 312 km long), touring the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range and beyond in a spectacular loop.
Mallorca 312 for 2020 and 2021 were sadly cancelled due to the pandemic. We can’t wait to see the spectacular event back in action soon.
2. Cap de Formentor
The Cap de Formentor sits in the North of Mallorca, surrounded by gorgeous scenery. Cyclists often travel through the beautiful seaside port of Puerto Pollensa up to the lighthouse in Cap de Formentor. The route involves spectacular views over Pollensa Bay. Cycling holidays in Pollensa are a popular choice as the area sits conveniently close to stunning routes.
3. Sa Calobra
Sa Calobra is a beautiful, challenging, and very rewarding climb. Following the smooth road across the rugged landscape, cyclists navigate 26 hairpin bends and a unique 270° loop-the-loop turn. According to Cycling Weekly, rumour has it that Sir Bradley Wiggins holds the unofficial record for Sa Calobra.
4. Andratx to Puerto Pollensa
Starting in the gorgeous town of Andratx, cyclists follow the ma-10 road most of the way to Puerto Pollensa. The route can be adapted to suit, making stops in idyllic towns, beauty spots, or key landmarks. As a popular route, you can also find cycling groups who gather together to explore the area.
Where to stay: villas for cyclists to rent in Mallorca
Because cycling is such a popular activity across Mallorca, you’re never too far from a bike rental shop and a scenic route. But, the towns and villages dotted in and around the Serra de Tramuntana mountains in Northwest Mallorca make the perfect resting points for cyclists trying well-tested routes in the area.
For example, you can find stunning cycling-friendly villas near Pollensa or Andratx, which sit at opposite ends of a popular cycling route. Puerto Pollensa lies just below the famous Cap de Formentor, home to a beautiful cycling route with stunning views. Oh, you might prefer to stay in a charmingly traditional Mallorcan town with narrow cobbled streets, like Soller.
Looking for cyclists’ holiday rentals in Mallorca? Have a look at our stunning selection!
What the professionals say about cycling in Mallorca
Cycling in Mallorca is popular with amateurs and professionals alike. Each year, famous teams take advantage of the warm weather and diverse terrain, including Team INEOS (formerly Team Sky), Team GB, and Movistar, to name a few. So, what do the professionals think of Mallorca’s roads?
Sir Bradly Wiggins
Bradley Wiggins is familiar with cycling in Mallorca and was spotted training there before the Tour de France. He even reportedly bought a holiday home in the idyllic North-Mallorcan town of Pollensa, close to some of the island’s most breath-taking cycling routes.
The Tour-de-France champion and five-time Olympic gold medallist told Culture Trip:
“Mallorca is a haven for cyclists. I first came to Mallorca with the British Olympic team at the start of the season in 2000. It’s so beautiful and the roads are perfect – like a Scalextric track. The mountains are ideal for training – not too long, hard or high – and there are lots of flat sections over the plains, too. It’s only a two-hour flight from home, plus the weather in winter and spring is ideal for cycling when it’s miserable in the UK.”
Pedro Delgado
Former road cyclist Pedro Delgado is also a regular visitor to Mallorca. In an interview with The Guardian, the Tour de France and two-time La Vuelta winner he explained why Mallorca is ideal for cycling:
“In Mallorca you can find everything…It’s very close to Britain, it’s only a short flight….Mallorca is a special place to cycle because the weather is good and you can find flat terrain or mountains; Mallorca offers riders of different abilities good opportunities. I think it’s a perfect place to ride.”
Want to find out more about your cycling holiday in Mallorca? Have a look at our island guide and beautiful holiday villas.
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