Ruben’s routes in Mallorca

In the month of February 2023, Ruben Hoogland On the island of Mallorca. A beautiful destination with so many beautiful climbs, backroads and views; you have to have been there. That’s why we have created a short, three-part series in which we show you Ruben’s favorite routes on Mallorca. With the accompanying photos, we can say: ‘The hype is completely justified’.

Text and photos: Ruben Hoogland

Favorite routes

Although Mallorca can be quite touristy, which is not really my thing, I have fallen in love with this island because of the diversity of opportunities. A big plus is the fact that people are generally very friendly and the overall atmosphere on the island is fantastic. The island is more than bike-friendly. All the more reason to share with you my favorite routes featuring the island’s biggest highlights from my perspective in this article.

Selva – Sa Calobra – Soller Serious climbing

This route starts in the idyllic village of Selva, where you might start with coffee and some sweets at Cafeteria Sa Duana, run by a charming Italian duo. You start this route right away with the Coll de Sa Batalla, a well-maintained and very beautiful climb, and then you make the crossing to the famous descent of Sa Calobra. First down, then up again. Enjoy it, it is breathtakingly beautiful with stunning views!

Puig Major – Coll de Sóller

Next, you grab the tail end of Puig Major, the highest peak on Mallorca. The descent towards Soller is really lovely and the asphalt is insanely good! You can really attack this descent. After the descent, you end up in the town of Sóller, where you could stop for lunch or coffee (by the water). From Soller, it’s time to climb again. So get ready for a lot of hairpin bends during the climb up the Col de Sóller, from the ‘better’ side. This descent means new brake pads. As an uphill climb, it’s great for the puncheur and the route is relatively car-free. The continuous road to Palma actually runs through a tunnel, where cyclists are not allowed to come in or go out.

Long straight ahead

Once you’re down in Bunyola, you head on to Santa María del Camí. If you’re really hungry, stop by Can Pulit Cafeteria for delicious bocadillos. Here, you can relax in the picturesque courtyard and recover from what you’ve just seen and done. Then, it’s a relatively flat ride back to the starting point.

Ruben’s routes in Mallorca

Below you will find the link to the described route. There is also the possibility to add an extra loop to this route. You don’t want to miss the corner with the climb to Orient! It’s a lovely, quiet climb, but the asphalt can be a bit rough.

Would you like to see more routes and inspiration about this fantastic island? Then take a look at our ‘diary Mallorca‘Where you will find beautiful routes and tips about this cycling paradise.