Mallorca – A Paradise for Cyclists

Home to long-mid gradient climbs and well-maintained relatively traffic free roads Mallorca is a paradise for many cyclists. A haven for both holiday makers and various professional and amateur cycling teams during the off season, Mallorca is famed in the cycling world.

If you and the family or some friends are thinking of looking for a cycling holiday this year, then pack up your cycling clothing and head to Mallorca – it could be your ideal destination. Here is all you need to know.

Where to go

It’s likely that you’ll fly into Palma as there are many budget airlines offering flights here from the UK. To get the best cycling, however, you’ll need to look further afield from the capital and head out to the hilly north and western regions of the island. Just in from the Tramuntana mountain range is where you’ll find the best cycling, but there is much on offer throughout the island. It’s really up to you.

What to take with you

Obviously you’ll need are your cycling gear. If you’re happy to take your own bike you can, but don’t be worried if not as there are a number of fantastic outlets offering everything from bikes for kids to the top of the range road and mountain bikes. Many of them also run cycling tours, which are definitely worth checking out.

The cycling

Wherever you go is of course up to you, but we’d recommend basing yourself in Port de Pollenca sitting on the northern tip of the island. It’s just an hour’s drive from Palma and has a great option for a quiet relaxing coastal route to Port d’Alcudia, or something a little more testing. The 5km climb out to the most northern point of the island – Cap de Formentor – is a personal favourite. Making your way onto the peninsula you’ll find 400m high cliff tops with some of the best views of the island. Things can get a little hairy, but it’s well worth it.

You’ll also find some amazing climbs in the Serra de Tramuntana range, such as the Coll de’Honor.

The climate

It’s no secret that this Spanish island has fantastic weather with the top temperatures in the summer months averaging out at around 31°C. That may be great for lying on the beach and soaking up the rays, but it doesn’t always make those steep hill climbs that enjoyable. If you’re going in the midst of summer the morning is always the best time to ride, whereas you might find it a little more bearable on the hot roads in the spring.

If you’re a budding cyclist, Mallorca should be next on your list.