Cycling in Mallorca – Complete Guide to Routes, Bike Hire & Tips

Mallorca isn’t just famous for its beaches and nightlife – it’s also one of Europe’s cycling capitals. Every year, thousands of riders (from beginners to Tour de France pros) train and explore here. With over 900 km of roads, mountain climbs, coastal stretches, and smooth tarmac, the island is built for two wheels.
Palma, with its international airport and world-class bike shops, is the best starting point for cycling adventures. Whether you’re in town for a week or planning a training camp, you can reach the island’s most iconic routes within an hour.
🗂️ Quick Guide to Cycling in Mallorca
Feature | Details |
🚴 Best For | Road cycling, climbs, coastal loops, training camps |
🗓️ Best Time | March–May & Sept–Nov (cooler, less crowded) |
📍 From Palma | Most routes 30–60 minutes away |
🔑 Must-Ride | Sa Calobra, Cap de Formentor, Palma → Andratx |
🛒 Essentials | Bike hire, repair kit, sunscreen, plenty of water |
🌿 Why Mallorca is a Cycling Paradise
Mallorca has become a top global cycling destination for good reason:
- Perfect climate – mild winters, sunny springs, warm autumns.
- Pro-level roads – smooth surfaces and well-marked routes.
- Diverse terrain – flats, rolling countryside, dramatic mountain climbs.
- Cycling culture – cafés, rentals, and bike hotels everywhere.
- Pro teams – Sky/Ineos, Bora, and Movistar all train here.
It’s no wonder Mallorca has hosted the legendary Mallorca 312 endurance race, now one of Europe’s toughest single-day cycling events.
🛣️ Best Cycling Routes in Mallorca
We’ve picked out the island’s most iconic rides, all accessible from Palma within 30–90 minutes.
1. 🌊 Palma → Port d’Andratx – Coastal Beauty
- 📍 Distance: ~40 km (one way)
- 📏 Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
- 🌟 Best for: Scenic coastal riders
This ride starts from Palma’s Paseo Marítimo and hugs the coast westward. You’ll pass Bendinat, Santa Ponsa, and finish at the picturesque fishing port of Andratx. Expect rolling hills and stunning sea views.
2. 🚴 Cap de Formentor – Mallorca’s Iconic Ride
- 📍 Distance: ~40 km round trip
- 📏 Difficulty: Moderate – Hard
- 🌟 Best for: Intermediate/advanced cyclists
A legendary route taking you from Port de Pollença to the Formentor Lighthouse. It’s famous for winding roads, panoramic views, and cliffside descents.
Related Read: Cap de Formentor guide
3. ⛰️ Sóller → Sa Calobra – The Ultimate Climb
- 📍 Distance: ~90 km round trip (from Sóller)
- 📏 Difficulty: Hard
- 🌟 Best for: Experienced cyclists
With 26 hairpin bends and a 7% gradient, the Sa Calobra climb is a bucket-list ride. The descent is equally thrilling — but save energy for the climb back out.
Related Read: Road Trip Sóller to Sa Calobra
4. 🎨 Palma → Valldemossa & Deià – Cultural Loop
- 📍 Distance: ~50 km round trip
- 📏 Difficulty: Moderate
- 🌟 Best for: Scenic riders & culture lovers
Ride inland from Palma into the Serra de Tramuntana. Olive groves, mountain views, and two of Mallorca’s most charming villages (Valldemossa & Deià) await. Perfect for mixing history, culture, and exercise.
Related Read: Valldemossa guide | Deià guide
5. ⛪ Lluc Monastery Challenge
- 📍 Distance: ~80 km from Palma
- 📏 Difficulty: Moderate – Hard
- 🌟 Best for: Climbers & cultural stops
A challenging climb into the Tramuntana, ending at the historic Lluc Monastery. A must-do for those who enjoy long climbs and spiritual landmarks.
6. 🏅 Mallorca 312 – The Ultimate Endurance Ride
- 📍 Distance: 312 km
- 📏 Difficulty: Expert
- 🌟 Best for: Endurance athletes
The Mallorca 312 Gran Fondo is Europe’s toughest single-day ride. Covering almost the whole island, it’s the ultimate test of strength, stamina, and determination.
🧭 Cycling Tips for Mallorca
- ⏰ Start early to avoid heat & traffic.
- 🌬️ Check wind conditions (Tramuntana rides can be tough).
- 🥖 Fuel up with local snacks — ensaïmadas & bocadillos are rider favourites.
- 🛑 Follow traffic laws — Mallorca is bike-friendly, but safety comes first.
- 🧴 Bring sunscreen & extra water bottles.
🚲 Bike Hire & Tours in Mallorca
Cycling Mallorca without your own bike? No problem. The island has world-class rental shops, expert guides, and training camps designed for both holiday riders and professionals.
If you’re based in Palma, check out our full guide to Bike Hire in Palma de Mallorca for insider tips on where to rent.
🔑 Bike Hire
Mallorca has some of Europe’s best rental infrastructure.
- Palma: Dozens of shops near the centre and Paseo Marítimo.
- Alcúdia & Pollença: Popular bases for northern routes.
- Port de Sóller: Best for Tramuntana climbs.
💡 Expect prices from €20–35/day for road bikes; carbon frames cost more.
👨👩👧 Guided Tours & Training Camps
For peace of mind (or serious training), join a guided trip:
- Group or private tours
- Support vehicles for long rides
- Training camps with pro coaches
🏨 Cycling-Friendly Hotels
Hotel | Area | Why Stay Here? |
Iberostar Alcudia Park | Playa de Muro | Secure bike storage, spa recovery |
Zafiro Palace Palmanova | Near Palma | Luxury + cyclist packages |
Monnaber Nou Finca & Spa | Campanet | Rural finca with cycling routes nearby |
❓ Cycling in Mallorca FAQ
When is the best time to cycle in Mallorca?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (Sept–Nov) are ideal: cooler temps, fewer crowds, and perfect road conditions.
Do I need to bring my own bike?
How hard is the Sa Calobra climb?
Very. With 26 switchbacks and a 7% gradient, it’s a challenge even for seasoned riders.
Do I need a car for cycling in Mallorca?
Not always. Many routes start in Palma or are reachable by train/bus. But a rental car makes reaching northern routes (like Formentor) easier.
📱 Useful Resources for Cyclists in Mallorca
Planning your rides is easier with the right tools. Here are some trusted resources to help you make the most of your cycling experience on the island:
- Naviki Mallorca App – A popular route-planning app with GPS tracking and curated cycling maps specific to Mallorca. Great for both road and leisure cyclists.
- Komoot / Strava – Widely used by locals and pros to share routes, track performance, and discover hidden trails.
- Consell de Mallorca – Cycling Routes Map – The island’s government provides official cycling maps and safety information (available in English, Spanish, and Catalan).
- TIB Public Transport – Check bike-friendly bus and train connections if you need to shorten or extend your rides.
- Weather Apps (AEMET / Windy) – Mallorca’s wind can change fast — these apps help you plan the safest and most enjoyable cycling days.
💡 Pro Tip: Always double-check government resources for updated traffic rules and cycling infrastructure improvements – Mallorca is continually investing in safer bike lanes and rural routes.