Cycling in the Balearics
General
The Balearic Islands are a group of islands in the Mediterranean Sea and are officially an autonomous region of Spain. Located to the east of Spain, the archipelago consists of four islands. From large to small, they are Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera. Although the islands are close to each other, they differ in terms of atmosphere and infrastructure.
Mallorca and Ibiza are clearly the most popular destinations for cyclists. But did you know that the less touristy Menorca is also great for gravelling and mountain biking? Formentera is the smallest island, but when staying in Ibiza, a day trip to this islet should not be missed.
Still not sure which island best suits your travel plans? Find out on this page where the best places to cycle are in the Balearic Islands.
cycling in mallorca
Mallorca is one of the most popular cycling destinations in Spain. Alongside the Costa Blanca, this Balearic island also dominates as a perfect training location for professional cycling teams and recreational cyclists. And for good reason; the varied landscape, good road network and fine climate make for insane cycling here. The island has both impressive mountain ranges such as the Serra de Tramuntana as rolling hills and quiet coastal roads. As a result, cyclists of all abilities can find suitable routes here. Whether you are looking for challenging climbs, such as the iconic Sa Calobra or Puig Major, or prefer a leisurely ride along the coast or through picturesque villages; Mallorca offers something for every cyclist.
Moreover, the good facilities for cyclists - such as many bicycle rental shops and bicycle-friendly hotels - ensure that you can fully focus on cycling.
cycling in ibiza
Ibiza may be a lot smaller than Mallorca, but this island is also becoming increasingly popular among cyclists. You can make beautiful cycling routes here, but above all, the island is known for its various mountain bike trails. The island is about 40 kilometres long and 20 kilometres wide. Yet you can go in many directions, allowing you to cycle a different round every time. The varied landscapes, from rugged rock formations and green valleys to hidden coves, make Ibiza an ideal destination for cyclists.
Although Ibiza is known for its nightlife, the interior is surprisingly quiet. The summer months can be busy, but out of season you can enjoy almost deserted mountain bike trails and quiet roads.
Ibiza is big enough to cycle different routes, both for cyclists and mountain bikers. Still, have you 'played out' the island? Then plan a day trip to Formentera. With an area of only 83.2 km2, this fourth Balearic island is too small for good cycling. But if you are staying in Ibiza, you can take a day trip to this island from Ibiza to explore the island from a bike.
cycling in menorca
Menorca has some nice roads and climbs, but as there are few ring roads across the island, your ride quickly becomes a 'round trip'. Many roads turn into gravel roads or end at the coast. However, this allows you to w ell gravelling and mountain biking in Menorca! The coastline has almost no paved connecting roads between the villages, but on a mountain or gravel bike with +40 mm tyres you can follow almost the entire coast via the 185-kilometre-long Camí de Cavalls route. There are also plenty of gravel roads inland. Are you a good mountain biker and looking for challenging trails? Then you should go mountain biking in Ibiza.
