Where to cycle in the Balearics: Mallorca, the road cycling mecca

If you want to road cycle in the Balearics, Mallorca is where it happens. The island has become Europe's cycling mecca: a mild winter and spring climate, well-maintained roads, and legendary climbs such as Sa Calobra and the Cap de Formentor. Professional teams set up their training camps here.

Why is Mallorca a cyclist's paradise?

The climate, first: mild from December to April, when the rest of Europe shivers, which makes it the pre-season training ground for World Tour teams, from Ineos to Movistar. Then the terrain: the Serra de Tramuntana packs dozens of climbs into a small area, with wide roads and steady hairpins. You can string together sea and mountain in the same ride.

Sa Calobra and the Cap de Formentor, the two must-dos

Sa Calobra is the island's cult climb: around 10 kilometres at a 7 percent average gradient, with sections up to 12 percent and 26 spectacular hairpins; the Strava record is held by pro rider Tom Pidcock at 22 minutes 46 seconds. The Cap de Formentor, meanwhile, plays the panorama card: around twenty kilometres from Port de Pollenca to the lighthouse, above cliffs that drop into the sea.

Menorca and Ibiza suit shorter, more rolling rides; Formentera is best explored by leisure bike, on its flat tracks. To move around without a car, see our guide to ferries between the islands.

Frequently asked questions about cycling in the Balearics

Which is the best island for road cycling?
Mallorca, without question, for its climbs, its roads and its training-friendly climate.

What is Mallorca's best-known climb?
Sa Calobra, around 10 km at a 7 percent average gradient, with its 26 hairpins.

When should you come and ride in Mallorca?
Mostly February to May, when the climate is mild and the pros train on the island.

Timetables, fees and conditions change; check with official sources before you travel. Information verified in August 2026. The Daily Baleares is an AI-assisted publication with human review.