Cycling in Ibiza: on- and off-road cycling fun
General
Ibiza; for some, it is a party destination, but cyclists who have visited this island once will especially have memories of its beautiful cycling routes. Located in the Mediterranean Sea, Ibiza is part of the Balearic Islands, an archipelago belonging to Spain. The island is located about 150 kilometres east of the Spanish mainland and close to other Balearic islands such as Mallorca, Menorca and Formentera. Cycling in Ibiza is becoming increasingly popular, both among cyclists and mountain bikers.
Especially the north of Ibiza is quiet, with lots of green nature, beautiful bays and clear blue sea. In Ibiza town, on the other hand, you can find some more hustle and bustle. Wherever you stay; you can discover all the island's beautiful spots by bike. Ibiza is about three times the size of Texel, and about 40 kilometres long from north to south. However, you need not be afraid of 'playing out' the island too quickly. There are plenty of beautiful roads, allowing you to make endless routes on flatter roads or challenging climbs.
Ibiza is becoming increasingly popular as a cycling destination. The landscape is rolling, and climbs are usually short. These vary between short and punchy, or rather a bit longer (up to 6 kilometres) and undulating. It is an ideal destination for cyclists who want to go on a cycling holiday, but do not necessarily want to climb a lot like in mountain areas. Looking for adventure? Then go mountain biking in Ibiza. With a mountain bike, you can see even more of nature and hidden coves. There are trails for beginners and advanced mountain bikers.
You can cycle in Ibiza all year round, but in the summer months the island is especially popular with tourists who come to seek out the sun, beaches and big parties. During that period, accommodations are more expensive and roads busier. Therefore, it is recommended to take a cycling holiday to Ibiza in the autumn or early spring plan. In winter, temperatures are mild, around 10 to 15 degrees. That's why Ibiza is also popular among cyclists in the winter cycling holidays want.
There are several bike rental companies in Ibiza. Make sure you book in time, especially in high season.
At Bike Ibiza you can not only rent a fine Cannondale or Merida road bike or (e)MTB, but also request a (optionally Dutch-speaking) guide tour. In addition, they can further help you plan your cycling holiday in Ibiza.
It is usually not a problem to bring your bike to your hotel room. However, we do recommend checking with the hotel in advance. There are also specific bicycle-friendly hotels such as the Tropic Garden Hotel.
tips for cycling on Ibiza
Around Ibiza on a road or gravel bike
Did you know you can cycle around the whole of Ibiza in a day? In about 140 kilometres and 2000 altimeters (you can make it as crazy as you want) you can cycle around the island on paved roads. The best roads are slightly off the coast, but by looping the route past quaint coastal towns like Portinatx or bustling Ibiza Town, you can take lovely breaks by the beautiful sea. Tip: take your time cycle the route in two or three days as a bikepacking route. You can also ride on the gravelbike cycle around Ibiza. That way, you will discover even more beautiful spots, such as hidden coves that you can only reach via unpaved paths. We recommend setting aside more days for this.
Beautiful climb: from Cala Sant Vicent to Sant Joan de Libritja
This is one of the longest and most beautiful climbs in Ibiza. You start in Cala Sant Vicent, located on the northeast coast of the island. From there, you climb to 240 metres altitude in 6 kilometres. With an average gradient of 4%, this climb is not too difficult, but be prepared for some tough sections up to 12% where you will definitely feel your calves. Continue your route from Sant Joan de Libritja with a loop past the pretty coastal town of Portinatx.
Mountain biking in Ibiza
Ibiza is a crazy mountain biking destination. You will find trails for beginners as well as advanced cyclists. Mountain biking is possible almost everywhere here. Both from well-known Ibiza Town and bustling Sant Antoni de Portmany you have access to plenty of great MTB trails. Mountain biking is also good in the north-east of Ibiza. Here the area is quieter in the more touristy months.
Travel tips
Best Travel Time: Avoid the summer months if you don't want to be in the middle of the tourist season. Spring and autumn are a lot more attractive for cyclists. The weather is fine for cycling and the days are long, allowing you to go out all day. Ibiza is also good for cycling in winter, but bear in mind that this is the low season in Ibiza, so beach bars and some accommodation may close.
Traffic information: The roads can be busy in high season (summer). Especially around Ibiza town there are many tourists, but the roads are also crowded with tourists taking tours by car or hiking on MTB trails. Quiet roads and trails can be found mainly in the north of the island, and outside the summer months.
Bike rental: There are especially many mountain bike rental companies in Ibiza, but you can also rent high-quality road bikes in gravel bikes. Book well before you go so you don't miss out.
