Cycling guide: Sóller to Sa Calobra – Mallorca’s Legendary Cycling Climb
🌟 Why Cycle Sa Calobra?
Ask any cyclist who’s ridden in Mallorca — Sa Calobra is the climb everyone talks about. With 26 hairpin bends, a tunnel carved into rock, and an average gradient of 7%, it’s a true test of endurance. Starting from Sóller, this route is as much about the breathtaking scenery as it is about the challenge.
💡 Fun fact: Pro cycling teams often train here in winter and spring, making it one of Europe’s most famous off-season climbs.
📍 Route Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Start Point | Sóller town |
| End Point | Sa Calobra beach (then climb back out!) |
| Distance | ~90 km round trip from Sóller |
| Elevation Gain | ~2,000 m |
| Gradient | Avg. 7% with sections over 11% |
| Difficulty | Hard |
| Best For | Experienced cyclists chasing iconic climbs |
🚴 Route Highlights
Coll de Sóller Warm-Up ⛰️
Many riders begin with the Coll de Sóller climb — a classic ascent full of switchbacks — before heading deeper into the Tramuntana.
Puig Major Approach 🌄
The highest road in Mallorca, Puig Major, takes you into the heart of the mountains. This section sets you up for the descent into Sa Calobra.
Sa Calobra Descent & Climb 🚵♀️
The only way in is down — and that means you have to climb back out. The 9.5 km ascent has become legendary: 26 switchbacks, sheer cliffs, and iconic views.
🛑 Tips for the Ride
- 🥤 Refuel in Lluc or Sóller before tackling the climb — facilities are limited in Sa Calobra itself.
- 🌤 Best Season: Spring & autumn (summer can be brutally hot).
- 🚦 Traffic: Tour buses use the road — mornings are quieter.
- 📸 Photo Stop: The famous tie knot bend (Nus de Sa Corbata).
🏨 Where to Base Yourself
| Base | Why Stay Here? | Example Stay |
| Sóller | Classic base for Tramuntana rides | Cycling-friendly hotels |
| Port de Pollença | Popular pro-team training hub | Bike hotels with storage |
| Palma | City access + car rentals | Boutique urban hotels |
🚲 Bike Hire & Tours
- Sóller has several bike shops for day rentals.
- Palma & Alcúdia also have pro-level carbon rentals.
- Guided Sa Calobra tours are available if you prefer support vehicles.
👉 See our Bike Hire in Mallorca guide for full rental options.
🧭 Pro Tips
✔ Save energy for the climb — the descent is steep and technical.
✔ Carry plenty of water — there are no refill points on the climb.
✔ Ride with compact gearing (34×28 or 34×30) unless you’re a pro.
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