Cycling in Mallorca

Mallorca is one of Europe's road-cycling paradises: many pro teams train here in winter. The best months are February to May and September to November. Legendary climbs:

• Sa Calobra: 9.5 km up from the sea, with the famous "tie knot" bend.
• Puig Major from Sóller, the island's longest climb.
• Cap de Formentor, from Port de Pollença to the lighthouse, with stunning views.
• Coll de Sóller, Orient and Puig de Randa, gentler options.

You can rent road bikes, MTBs and e-bikes in Palma, Port d'Alcúdia, Port de Pollença and at many hotels. Helmets are compulsory on roads and cars must leave 1.5 m when overtaking. In Palma, the Passeig Marítim bike lane runs all the way to Platja de Palma.

Two things catch many riders out: bikes are banned from the Sóller tunnel, so between Palma and Sóller you climb the Coll de Sóller on the old winding road; and on the Formentor road, from 15 May to 18 October, 10 am to 10 pm, only the bus, taxis, authorised vehicles and bicycles may continue to the lighthouse, which makes the ride much quieter during those hours.

In summer start very early: from midday the heat inland is tough and in the Serra there is little water along the way, so plan where to refill your bottles. On Sa Calobra you share the descent with cars and coaches looking for parking, especially mid-morning; take the hairpins carefully. In winter the days are short and the summits can be cold and windy: carry a jacket and lights.

Frequently asked questions

Can you cycle through the Sóller tunnel?

No, bicycles are not allowed in the Sóller tunnel. To ride from Palma to Sóller you climb the Coll de Sóller on the old road, one of the island's classic climbs, full of hairpins and quiet since the tunnel opened.

Can you cycle to the Formentor lighthouse in summer?

Yes. From 15 May to 18 October, 10 am to 10 pm, the lighthouse road is closed to private cars, but bicycles may use it, along with the bus, taxis and authorised vehicles.

Is a cycling helmet compulsory in Mallorca?

Yes, outside towns and villages helmets are compulsory on interurban roads, as in the rest of Spain. Inside built-up areas they are compulsory for under-16s and strongly recommended for everyone.

Updated in October 2026