Why Mallorca Is Europe's Cycling Capital
Every winter, thousands of professional and amateur cyclists descend on Mallorca for training camps. Teams from the WorldTour, including Movistar and UAE Team Emirates, have long used the island as their early-season base. But what makes this Balearic island so special for cycling?
The answer lies in a near-perfect combination of climate, terrain, infrastructure, and scenery. With average winter temperatures of 12-16 degrees Celsius, smooth tarmac roads, and a compact geography that packs mountain climbs, coastal roads, and flat plains into an area of just 3,640 square kilometers, Mallorca delivers an unmatched cycling experience.
The Serra de Tramuntana: Mountain Riding at Its Finest
The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range runs along Mallorca's northwest coast for approximately 90 km, forming a dramatic backdrop of limestone peaks, terraced olive groves, and medieval stone villages. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011, this landscape offers some of the most rewarding climbs in the Mediterranean.
Must-Ride Climbs
- Sa Calobra (Coll dels Reis) - The most famous climb on the island. A 9.4 km descent (or ascent) with 26 hairpin bends dropping 682 meters to a tiny cove. The road's engineering is a marvel, including a 270-degree spiral tunnel.
- Cap Formentor - A 13.5 km ride from Port de Pollenca to the lighthouse at the island's northeastern tip. The road clings to dramatic cliffs with jaw-dropping sea views. Often called the meeting point of the winds.
- Puig Major - At 1,445 meters, Mallorca's highest peak offers a challenging climb via the tunnel road from Soller. The road is well-maintained with smooth asphalt throughout.
- Coll de Soller - A classic 8 km climb from Palma side reaching 496 meters. Popular as a warm-up ride for longer mountain days.
- Orient via Bunyola - A quieter alternative that takes you through almond orchards and the charming village of Orient in a hidden valley.
Climbing Tips
The Serra de Tramuntana climbs are best tackled in the morning before wind picks up. Sa Calobra is particularly popular with tour buses after 10am, so an early start is essential. Carry extra water as there are limited refill points on the higher passes.
Coastal and Flat Routes
Not every ride in Mallorca needs to involve mountains. The eastern and southern parts of the island offer gentler terrain ideal for long, steady rides and recovery days.
Recommended Flat Routes
- Palma to Alcudia - An 80 km route through the central plain (Es Pla), passing through traditional market towns like Sineu and Santa Margalida
- Ses Salines Loop - A 60 km circuit around the salt flats and beaches of Mallorca's southeast, with minimal elevation gain
- Campos to Porto Colom - A scenic 45 km ride through agricultural countryside ending at a picturesque fishing village
Best Time to Visit
Mallorca's cycling season effectively runs from February to November, with distinct advantages to each period:
- February to April - Peak training camp season. Roads are quiet, temperatures are mild (12-20 degrees), and almond trees blossom across the landscape in February
- May to June - Warmer conditions (20-28 degrees) with longer days. The island is green from spring rains
- September to November - Arguably the best period. Warm sea temperatures for post-ride swims, smaller crowds, and comfortable riding conditions
Avoid July and August
Temperatures regularly exceed 35 degrees, tourist traffic makes roads congested, and accommodation prices peak. If you must visit in summer, start rides before 7am and stick to coastal routes where sea breezes moderate the heat.
Practical Information
Getting Your Bike to Mallorca
Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) is well-connected to major European cities. Most airlines accept boxed bikes as checked luggage (typically 30-50 EUR each way). Alternatively, numerous rental shops in Palma, Alcudia, and Port de Pollenca offer high-quality road bikes from around 25-40 EUR per day, often including helmet, pedals, and repair kit.
Where to Stay
The three main cycling hubs are:
- Port de Pollenca - Northern base ideal for Cap Formentor and Tramuntana climbs. Quiet, cycling-focused town with numerous bike-friendly hotels
- Alcudia - Good all-round base with easy access to both mountains and flat routes. More dining and entertainment options
- Palma - Best for combining cycling with urban culture. Direct access to the Tramuntana via the Coll de Soller road
Road Conditions and Safety
Mallorca's road surfaces are generally excellent, especially on main cycling routes. Drivers are accustomed to cyclists and generally respectful. The island's road authority maintains a network of secondary roads that see minimal motorized traffic, making them ideal for cycling.
Spanish law requires cyclists to wear helmets outside urban areas. Carry lights and high-visibility clothing for tunnel sections, particularly the long tunnel on the Puig Major road. Always ride single-file on busy roads.
