Cycling in Mallorca, why Palma is the best spot on the island

Mallorca is an island that attracts tourists all year round, yet its high season is during the summer months when the temperatures are at their highest. However, while the sun is ideal for relaxing on the best beaches, the best time to enjoy cycling in Mallorca is before the high season starts between the months of February and May. The early months of the year also coincide with the almond blossom season, a must-see in Mallorca. September and October are also popular months for cyclists. 

To ensure that you enjoy your bicycle holiday in Mallorca to the fullest, it is important to choose your base wisely. One of the best places to stay in Mallorca for cycling is without a doubt the Occidental Playa de Palma Hotel located just 200 metres from El Arenal Beach. Not only is it strategically located close to some of the best Mallorca cycling routes but it is also used by many professional teams each year for their training.

The hotel’s bike centre and repair shop offer everything you can need for your adventure. Yet, the perks don’t stop there. The hotel also offers parking spaces and washing areas (for both bikes and clothes) in addition to a bike rental service for those travelling light. When not exploring, cyclists can restore their energy with the delicious and nutritious meals served in the restaurant before retreating to their rooms, some of which come with hypoxia chambers so that professionals can optimise their training. The hotel spa is also a must-try to ease your weary muscles.

Using the city as a base allows you to explore some of the best natural areas in Mallorca without straying too far from your hotel. Not sure where to start? Be inspired by our favourite, top-5 trails.

If you want to ease yourself in gently, this easy route is a great way to begin cycling in Mallorca. This flat,15-kilometre stretch hugs the Mediterranean and takes you from the sandy shores of Playa de Palma along palm-fringed promenades, past luxury yachts and down to the Paseo Marítimo, Palma’s iconic avenue. Don’t miss out on catching a glimpse of the Gothic spires of La Seu Cathedral along the way. 

If a scenic ride through quintessential Mallorcan scenery appeals to you, take note of the Port d’Andratx route during your Mallorca cycling holidays.  Cycling this 30-kilometre route will take you west of Palma, snaking through idyllic villages such as Calvià and Es Capdellà. Soak up the picturesque scenery, dotted with almond trees, olive groves and bougainvillaea-covered stone houses as you make your way to Port d’Andratx, one of Mallorca’s most charming harbours. This is a great place to stop for lunch, especially if you like seafood. 

Mallorca bike holidays don’t need to be all about sport. Combine history, culture and nature into one ride by taking the Palma to Bunyola route. If you are up for the challenge, you can extend your route to Soller. Stretching 25-kilometres in distance, this route takes to the quieter side of the island, lined with pine forests and stone terraces with a backdrop of the Tramuntana in the distance. 

Once in Bunyola, head to the Old Town Square where many people cycling in Mallorca stop for a quick coffee. Explore the slow pace of village life or head on to Soller via the Coll de Sóller - known for its heart-pumping climbs and rewarding descents. The reward at the end is Sóller’s gorgeous town square, perfect for watching the world go by and catching a glimpse of the town’s iconic orange tram. 

No holidays cycling in Mallorca are complete without conquering the Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage mountain range, on the northwest of the island. Known as the holy grail for cyclists (and hikers) looking for a challenge. But be warned, this 45-kilometre route is only for advanced cyclists. Start in Palma and snake through the foothills to Esporles, a quaint village famous for its weekly markets. It is here that your route begins to change with hairpin bends winding their way through the limestone mountains, each twist and turn offering views more spectacular by the second. You will eventually reach Valldemossa once home to Chopin and George Sand.

Again, another advanced ride, this 20-kilometre ride is ideal for those seeking dramatic scenery. The Cap de Formentor ride starts outside Palma, just a 1.5-hour drive to the Port de Pollença but the journey is worth every minute. This area is known for the best cycling in Mallorca. Pedal across cliffs, lush pine forests and hairpin bends before arriving at one of the most famous lighthouses in Mallorca, located on the island’s northernmost tip. Be prepared for incredible views across the rocky headlands. Despite this path being demanding and strictly for advanced levels, it is one of Mallorca’s best cycling routes.