Mallorca's Cycling Routes: From Idyllic Coastal Tours to Challenging Climbs

Mallorca shines as one of Spain's finest destinations for road cycling enthusiasts, thanks to near-flawless road surfaces, wonderfully varied terrain and an enviable year-round climate. The island offers routes to suit every ability, leading you along breathtaking coastal roads, over gently rolling hills and up to challenging mountain passes. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or longing for a relaxed ride, Mallorca's diverse topography is sure to hold the perfect route for you. Discover the very best routes for memorable road cycling on Mallorca right here.

Cap de Formentor

For keen cyclists hungry for a challenge to show off their form, the route to the Cap de Formentor lighthouse is ideal terrain. This 35-kilometre ride, packing in almost 1,000 metres of climbing, rewards your effort with breathtaking panoramas and asphalt that is close to flawless. The opening section offers a spectacular view over the Bay of Pollensa before winding on to a more secluded stretch of coast, finally arriving at the picturesque lighthouse, the proud goal at the end of the road.

The road to the Cap de Formentor lighthouse is in excellent condition following a recent resurfacing. On the first part of the climb you may encounter some traffic, but this is mostly tourists who pose little obstacle to cyclists. Once you've conquered the first ascent, the volume of traffic drops noticeably. If you fancy a breather, the Mirador de la Creueta viewpoint is the perfect place to pause and take in the overwhelming scenery. The panorama is already impressive, but a short walk down to the very edge of the viewpoint rewards you with even more spectacular views of the rocks soaring majestically into the sky and the islands jutting out into the sea.

Port de Sóller

If your heart is set on cycling through picturesque villages, then I warmly recommend a trip to Port de Sóller. This delightful resort on Mallorca's west coast nestles within a broad, horseshoe-shaped bay and is considered one of the island's best-kept secrets, and it's a wonderful place to explore by bike. Sitting at the foot of the majestic Serra de Tramuntana, Port de Sóller was a secluded gem until the Sóller tunnel was built in the 1990s. Cycling through this very tunnel makes for an unforgettable and thrilling adventure. Thanks to its isolated setting, Port de Sóller has held on to its authentic, traditional charm.

Framed by the striking backdrop of the Tramuntana mountains, Port de Sóller is one of only a handful of villages on Mallorca to offer a captivating combination of breathtaking sea views and surrounding mountain scenery. Its position on the west coast also guarantees some of the most spectacular sunsets on the island. Port de Sóller welcomes you with picturesque sandy beaches, perfect for lingering and taking a refreshing dip. And not forgetting the lively pedestrian promenade, lined with restaurants and cafés that invite you to enjoy little treats and refreshments.

Puerto Pollensa

Puerto Pollensa, a jewel on Mallorca, enchants as the ideal destination for cycling enthusiasts. This picturesque spot, tucked into a sweeping bay and framed by a majestic mountain backdrop, makes a wonderful stage for exploring by bike. Worth highlighting is its role as a landmark waypoint on the route of the renowned Mallorca 312 sportive, which makes it a magnet for ambitious cyclists.

For those who prefer to enjoy the scenery at a gentler pace, Port Pollensa's long beach promenade offers an idyllic route. Here the panorama of the bay unfolds along its entire length, an ideal place to experience the joys of cycling out in the open.

The promenade at Port Pollensa is a pleasure for young cyclists too. It's especially appealing in the early morning, when the stillness is broken only by the soft rise of mist over the enchanting bay, a scene of rare beauty. In the evening the promenade comes alive with a lively atmosphere, yet in the morning it offers perfect conditions for a peaceful ride. Port Pollensa is also a favourite rest stop for cyclists setting off on the scenic loop around Cap de Formentor.

Alcúdia

Amid the idyll of northern Mallorca rises Alcúdia, a historic town of enchanting grace that makes an ideal stop on your cycling journey through the region. A proverbial stone's throw from Port d'Alcúdia, Alcúdia is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the island's rich cultural heritage without straying too far from the more familiar paths. A journey of discovery by bike through Alcúdia leads to fascinating sights, including the smallest Roman amphitheatre in Spain, about a kilometre south of the town centre near the harbour. It is a relic of the ancient city of Pollentia, which also included the forum and La Portella, a Roman necropolis.

Visit Alcúdia on a Tuesday or Sunday and a charming open-air market awaits. It is divided into two areas: one where farmers sell their local produce, and another presenting a variety of accessories, handbags, shoes, clothing and souvenirs. When hunger calls, park your bike near Alcúdia's pedestrian zone, a gathering point of cosy restaurants and cafés whose inviting terraces beckon you to linger and enjoy the delicious Mallorcan cuisine. Suitably refreshed, you can then stroll through the picturesque cobbled lanes, past striking medieval houses all the way to the town hall, a walk that touches and delights the soul.

Palma

A cycling adventure on Mallorca would be incomplete without a detour into the vibrant capital, Palma. Known as the "Pearl of the Mediterranean", Palma exudes a pulsing charm with Mediterranean flair and draws millions of visitors under its spell each year. Treat yourself to a luxurious stay in one of the capital's magnificent five-star hotels, which not only offer breathtaking views but also sit just a stone's throw from Mallorca's finest beaches.

During your stay in Palma, a visit to the impressive Santa Maria de Palma cathedral, known as La Seu, a Gothic masterpiece of Roman Catholic architecture, is a must. Discover the city's cultural variety in its museums too, such as the Es Baluard museum of modern and contemporary art, which proudly presents works by some of Spain's most renowned artists, from paintings to sculptures and ceramics. The seafront promenade is a paradise for cyclists, offering picturesque coastal views past endless sandy beaches, idyllic coves and elegant beach clubs. Treat yourself to a break in the shade now and then to relax and enjoy the colourful bustle around you.