Mallorca by Bike: The Island Every Cyclist Dreams Of (And How to Get There Without Breaking the Bank)

Every year, between February and May, thousands of cyclists from all over Europe pack their bags — and take apart their bikes — with one clear destination in mind: Mallorca. It's no coincidence. The island offers a combination that's hard to find anywhere else: mild weather while the rest of the continent is still freezing, perfectly surfaced roads, and mountain passes that will genuinely take your breath away — not just from the effort.

If you're planning to come and train here without spending a fortune, this article is for you.

Why Mallorca Is a Cyclist's Paradise

Professional teams have been choosing Mallorca as their pre-season training base for decades. Trek, Bora, Ineos, UAE — they've all been here. But the island isn't just for the pros: the amateur rider looking to put in a solid block of kilometres will find exactly what they need.

The weather. In March, when Germany or the Netherlands are still under snow, Mallorca sits at 16–18 °C with clear skies. Perfect for clocking long hours in the saddle without suffering the cold.

The roads. Low traffic outside peak season, well signposted and beautifully surfaced. The routes into the interior and through the Serra de Tramuntana are a gift for your legs — for those who want to push them.

The variety of terrain. From the flat plains of the Pla de Mallorca — ideal for power and endurance work — to mountain passes with gradients of 10–12 %. You can structure the whole week with varied intensities.

The Routes You Can't Miss

Sa Calobra / Puig Major — The classic. 9.5 km at an average 7 % gradient up to Puig Major, then the descent to the sea via Sa Calobra with its impossible hairpin bends. Brutally beautiful. Bring water.

Cap de Formentor — In the north of the island, starting from Port de Pollença. Technical, with sea views that force you to stop for photos. Around 20 km of climbing with several steep sections.

Puig de Randa — In the centre of the island. Shorter (4 km) but with ramps up to 14 % at the top. Perfect for climbing intervals.

Volta a Mallorca — For those who want to build base kilometres: loops of 100–160 km across the flat, following the south coast or crossing the Pla. Plenty of organised groups set off every morning from Palma or Alcudia.

Where to Stay When You Come to Train

Cyclists tend to cluster around three areas:

• Port de Pollença and Alcudia — North of the island. Direct access to the Tramuntana passes and Formentor. Many hotels offer bike storage, laundry service and generous evening meals.
• Playa de Palma / El Arenal — South. More affordable, good access to the Pla routes and also to the Tramuntana.
• Sóller — For those who want to sleep right in the mountains. Charming, but pricier and with fewer cycling-specific services.

Flying With Your Bike: What You Need to Know

Most airlines charge a surcharge for bikes: between €30 and €80 per leg depending on the carrier. Weigh your packed bike before leaving home — the limit is usually 23 kg — and book the slot in advance: they sell out quickly, especially during cycling season.

Palma Airport has a dedicated area for bulky sports equipment. The only problem: the airport is 15–20 km from most hotels, and navigating public transport with a bike box is a genuine nightmare.

The most practical solution — and cheaper than you might think — is a private transfer directly from the airport to your hotel. No waiting around, no dragging a box onto a bus, no stress.

The Airport Transfer: The Best Way to Start Your Training Camp

At Mallorca Low Cost we offer private transfers from Palma Airport to all points on the island, including the key cycling areas in the north (Alcudia, Port de Pollença, Can Picafort) and south (Arenal, Llucmajor, Campos).

You arrive with your packed bike, get in the vehicle, and you're at your hotel in under an hour — ready to build the bike the next morning and get out on the road.

Fixed price with no surprises, available 24 hours, suitable for groups and bulky luggage.

See prices and book your transfer →

Quick Tips to Keep Costs Down

• Bike hire on the island: If you'd rather not risk flying with your bike, there are hire shops with quality equipment in Palma, Alcudia and Inca. Average cost: €25–50/day depending on spec.
• Supermarkets for recovery: Mercadona and Lidl in all the main towns. Far cheaper than the hotel buffet for recovery products, fruit and snacks.
• Free routes: Download routes on Komoot or Wikiloc before you leave. There are hundreds of tracks verified by local cyclists.
• Best time to come: March and April. Quieter than May, stable weather, and lower accommodation prices than summer.

The Bottom Line

Mallorca isn't an expensive destination if you plan ahead. And for a cyclist who comes to train — where what matters is your legs and the roads, not fancy restaurants — the island offers a value-for-money proposition that's hard to beat in Europe.

Come with your bike, take the stress out of the airport with a direct transfer, and put all your energy into what you came here for: riding.