There are many ways to discover Mallorca, but exploring the island on two wheels feels a little different. Cycling through almond groves and quiet country roads, stopping for a coffee in a village square and finishing the day by the Mediterranean.
Mallorca is one of Europe’s best-known cycling destinations, and for good reason. The island offers everything from gentle, almost flat rides through the south to challenging mountain roads in the Serra de Tramuntana.
If you are thinking about planning a cycling holiday in Mallorca, here are a few things worth knowing before you set off.
Why is Mallorca so good for cycling?
Variety is probably its greatest strength.
You can start your ride at sea level and, a few hours later, be climbing through the mountains. You can choose a demanding route in the Serra de Tramuntana or follow quiet country roads through the island’s flatter southern landscape.
Mallorca also has a well-established cycling infrastructure, with plenty of specialist bike shops and rental companies offering road bikes, e-bikes and other options for different types of riders.
And then there is the climate. Cycling is possible for much of the year, with spring and autumn being particularly popular for longer rides and more comfortable temperatures.
A route near Ses Salines: cycling to Es Trenc
If you are staying in the south of Mallorca, you do not need to travel far to find a beautiful ride.
From Ses Salines, you can head towards the coast through the surrounding countryside and continue towards the Es Trenc and Ses Covetes area. The landscape takes you past fields, rural roads, salt flats and the protected surroundings of the Es Trenc-Salobrar de Campos Natural Park.
One particularly lovely option is to ride towards the salt flats and continue in the direction of Es Trenc. The scenery changes as you go: dunes, pine trees, wetlands and the Mediterranean appear almost one after another.
There is no need to rush this ride. In fact, that is part of the appeal. Take plenty of water, stop to enjoy the landscape and, if the weather is right, leave some time for a swim afterwards.
A useful tip: some paths within the protected natural area are unpaved or subject to specific restrictions, so check your exact route before setting off and always follow local signs and regulations.
Looking for a challenge?
Then head towards the Serra de Tramuntana.
Mallorca’s mountain roads are one of the island’s biggest attractions for experienced cyclists. Sa Calobra, Sóller and Cap de Formentor are well-known names among riders looking for climbs, altitude and spectacular scenery.
But you do not have to tackle one of Mallorca’s famous mountain passes to have a great cycling experience.
Some of the most enjoyable rides take you along quieter inland roads, where the landscape changes slowly and the journey becomes just as important as the destination.
What should you take and when should you ride?
In Mallorca, starting early is usually a good idea, particularly during the warmer months. Bring enough water, sun protection and something to eat during your ride.
If you are cycling on roads outside built-up areas, remember that helmets are compulsory and that cyclists must follow the applicable road rules.
It is also worth planning your route in advance and checking the surface, elevation and places where you can stop along the way. A 60-kilometre ride can feel completely different depending on the wind and how much climbing is involved.
After the ride, enjoy Mallorca
One of the best things about a cycling holiday in Mallorca is that the whole trip does not have to revolve around cycling.
After a morning in the saddle, you can return to Ses Salines, take a swim, relax in the garden and enjoy a good meal. And the next day, you can do it all over again.
That is exactly what we love about staying at Ca’n Bonico: having Mallorca right outside your door, while also having somewhere peaceful to return to at the end of the day.
Because a cycling holiday is not only about the kilometres you cover. Sometimes, the best part of the ride is knowing when to stop.