Cycling in Mallorca It has been a dream for cyclists from all over Europe for years. The largest island in the Balearic Islands combines sunshine, sea and challenging routes to become one of the most popular cycling destinations on the continent. Whether you are planning a training week for the first time or want to improve your form as a seasoned rider: Cycling in Mallorca Basically, it offers everything you could possibly want. Think of iconic climbs like Sa Calobra, miles of coastal paths, and hidden gravel routes inland. Due to its size and variety, you can literally go in all directions.
Why choose to cycle here? Mallorca is completely designed for cyclists and specifically for cyclists. The road network is paved and traffic-safe, with numerous bicycle-friendly hotels, cafes and bike rental companies scattered across the island. Thanks to the Mediterranean climate, you can ride almost all year round, although the spring and autumn (February-May and September-November) are the perfect seasons. No scorching heat, but plenty of sunshine, dry roads and ideal conditions to enjoy everything this cycling paradise has to offer.
By: Sander Kolsloot
Cycling routes Mallorca: where should you be?
Serra de Tramuntana
The Serra de Tramuntana is an absolute must for anyone who comes to cycle in Mallorca. This impressive mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stretches across the north-west coast and offers countless climbs, descents, and breathtaking views. The roads are well maintained, and thanks to the bike-friendly local population, this is a paradise for cyclists.
Sa Calobra: the most famous climb on the island
No visit to Mallorca Cycling without the mythical climb to Sa Calobra. To ride this 10 km long climb (7% on average), you first have to descend. That makes it unique: you have to climb it back up. With 26 hairpin bends, rocky tunnels and sections above 10%, this is a climb you won’t soon forget. The view over the bay and the winding road is legendary.
Ideal base and training climb: Coll de Soller
Another beautiful training climb is the Coll de Soller (outsparks: So-jer). From Soller, you have to climb 7.5km in 5% stages. This climb is ideal for training. Moreover, it is car-free because all the cars go through the tunnel. Cyclists are not allowed to go through the tunnel. Every disadvantage has its advantage, said a great philosopher once. If you ride the climb both way, you can then enjoy delicious local (fish) dishes in the port of Soller. It is always atmospheric there. From Soller, you can also combine Coll de Soller with a round via Alaro and Orient. A nice route, with little traffic and as a bonus you get to take in the beautiful Coll d’Honor.
Coll de Soller, Sóller, Spain
• Distance: 7.4 km, Elevation difference: 417 m, Average gradient: 5.7 %
Sobremunt: steep slopes
A less well-known but steep climb is Sobremunt, west of Palma. The 6-kilometer climb has an average grade of 7.6%, with peaks up to 18%. Compared to Sa Calobra, this climb is steeper and more challenging. Perfect for those who enjoy steep and technical terrain, but who also want to avoid the madness of Sa Calobra.
Sa Fita des Ram Sobremunt, Puigpunyent, Spain
• Distance: 6.6 km, Elevation difference: 585 m, Average gradient: 9.8 %
Cap de Formentor: cycling to the lighthouse
One of the most beautiful routes on the island is the road to the Cap de Formentor lighthouse. From Port de Pollença, you first climb the Coll de sa Creueta (4 km), then drive along a winding, panoramic route along cliffs and bays to the far end. This route is never really steep, but offers a unique driving experience.
The return journey is just as spectacular, and because the climb isn’t steep, you won’t end up completely exhausted. That’s a nice bonus if you park your bike at the beach in Port de Pollenca at the end of the ride. This village isn’t particularly charming, but its location on the beach makes up for it. Head to Pollenca itself for a truly charming Mallorcan village. There you can also work up a sweat climbing the more than 100 steps to El Calvari for some much-needed blessings. Another matter of concern.
Other beautiful climbs and routes
Of course, we can’t list everything here, because the island is first and foremost very large and very diverse. For cyclists who just want to spend a few kilometers in the sun, the base of departure in Palma or just below is very suitable. Enjoying a long ride along the coast, with some gentle slopes every now and then, but with nice weather. The south of the island also offers those possibilities, where you can still tick off some tough climbs, such as Castell de Santueri. The roads here are a bit narrower than in the north, so be careful with cars.
Mallorca cycling tips
Best time to travel
Avoid the summer months of July and August: it is hot and crowded. The best periods to cycle on Mallorca are March to early June and September to mid-November. Then the temperatures are mild and the roads are quieter.
Bike rental Mallorca
There are numerous bike rental companies on the island. Famous names include Huerzeler, Pro Cycle Hire (Pollenca), Fred Rompelberg and Clips Mallorca. Rent on time, especially in the spring, because it’s extremely popular. I myself have rented from Pro Cycle Hire several times and can highly recommend it. Just be aware: they are British, so the brakes may be mounted the other way around from the EU standard.
Bike hotels and bike holidays
From complete holidays to separate stays with bike rental: if you’re looking for bike hotels on Mallorca, you’ll find it all. Well-known Dutch providers like Fred Rompelberg and Bike Villas Travel offer custom-made services. Below, we’ve put together a selection of well-known bike hotels on Mallorca, from which you could choose for your next cycling adventure.
- El Vicenç de la MarLocated on the north coast near Cala Molins, this boutique hotel combines natural beauty with luxurious facilities, including a 24-hour fitness room and a fully equipped bike center.
- PortBlue Club Pollentia Resort & SpaStrategically located between the bay of Pollença and the Albufereta nature reserve, this resort offers an extensive cycling center with storage, changing rooms, a workshop, and changing rooms. In addition, it features a 25-meter swimming pool and a spa.
- Aparthotel VIVA Blue & Spa: Located next to the s’Albufera Nature Reserve in Playa de Muro, this hotel features various swimming pools, spacious rooms, and a specialized bike center, ideal for both professional and recreational cyclists.
- Hotel Hoposa VillaconchaThis aparthotel in Puerto de Pollença offers facilities such as a semi-Olympic heated outdoor pool, a large fitness center, a spa and an oxygen chamber, specially designed for athletes who want to train at high altitude.
- Helios Hotel Mallorca: A well-known offer of bike hotels. The Mallorca location is a favorite spot for many cyclists. It is located in Palma de Mallorca.
Bike-friendly villas on Mallorca
Below you will find a selection of villas that promote themselves as bike-friendly.
- Finca Can Riera
- Can Font Costitx
- Villa Can Siquier
- Finca Son Tia -> With cycling owners
- Villa Tia Joanaina – Villa Casa Monjas
- Ca Na Barons
- Can Pere Bou Holiday
- Villa Palmeras – Pollenca
- Rainbow Home Mallorca
- Finca Sa Tanca
- Es Pla Cycling House
- Casa Campet
Also at Bike VIllas Travel, From Dutch owners Wies and Ed, you will also find a zip line with bike-friendly villas.
These hotels are just a few examples of the many bike-friendly hotels and accommodations on Mallorca. The island is an ideal destination for both recreational and serious cyclists. Below you have a handy map where you can choose from hotels on the island
Transport on the island
Most cyclists fly to Palma de Mallorca. From there you can rent a car or use a transfer to your accommodation. If you want to travel with your own bike and car, you can take the ferry from Barcelona.
Mallorca has a mega airport and that is actually the only real option to get there. Unless you would like to drive to Barcelona with your own bike and car and then take the boat. It would make for a great road trip. But otherwise, you would fly to the airport and then rent a car or arrange transportation with your hotel.
Cycling routes on Mallorca
Here is the link to the most beautiful cycling routes on Mallorca. With our own experiences and tips from editors Ruben and Sander.
Questions & tips
Do you have any questions about this route, or have you been there yourself? Share them here. We read everything and usually respond within a few days.