I live in Mallorca year-round, and I ride almost every day — so when people ask what cycling on the island is really like, I’ve got a lot to say. From the long, winding climbs to the sun-baked switchbacks and coastal descents, this place is a dream on two wheels. But to enjoy it properly, there are a few things worth knowing before you come.
The Heat Will Surprise You
Even in spring and autumn, it can feel cool when you roll out in the morning, but don’t be fooled — it warms up fast. Especially once you’re climbing, the sun really starts to bite. The heat here is dry, and it creeps up on you. You might not feel like you’re sweating, but you are.
I always tell people: start hydrated and keep drinking steadily throughout the ride. If you’re already thirsty, you’re too late. I use electrolytes in at least one bottle every time — especially on longer days or when we’re heading into the mountains.
“If you wait until you're thirsty, it's too late. The heat in Mallorca doesn’t mess around.”
Climbing in Mallorca Isn’t About Speed — It’s About Rhythm
The climbs here aren’t brutal like the Alps, but they are long. Sa Calobra gets most of the spotlight, but even quieter ascents like Coll de sa Batalla or Puig Major will have you climbing steadily for 45 minutes to an hour.
There’s no single ‘right’ way to climb out here. Some riders prefer to spin a smaller gear at a higher cadence, which suits people with good cardiovascular fitness. Others like to grind it out in a harder gear — that can work too, especially if you’ve got the strength in your legs. It’s really about finding a rhythm you can hold without blowing up.
Don’t treat every climb like a race. Mallorca rewards patience and pacing — it’s about feeling strong enough to go again the next day.
Good Etiquette Keeps the Island Special
One thing we take seriously on our camps is riding with respect. We never ride more than two abreast, and on the tighter roads, we go single file. It’s not about rules — it’s about showing consideration to the local drivers, many of whom use these roads every day to work, deliver, or get around the island.
I see it all the time — groups taking over the entire road, chatting side by side on climbs like Coll de sa Batalla, holding up a long tailback of frustrated drivers. That kind of thing damages the great relationship cyclists have with the people here, and it’s something we actively avoid.
We also ride with the awareness that many drivers on the island are tourists — they’re not used to cyclists, or they’re unsure on the narrow roads. That’s why we always stop at junctions, even in the quiet countryside. There’s often tractors, vans, or local traffic coming through fast. And when we hit a roundabout, we give way to cars, full stop. If the group gets split, we ease up and regroup once it’s safe — no drama, no sprinting to catch up.
“Good etiquette isn't about rules — it's about keeping Mallorca a joy to ride for everyone.”
You Don’t Need to Bring It All — We’ve Got You
One less thing to worry about: we provide your bib shorts, jersey, and socks when you join us. So there’s no stress about packing your best kit or what’s going to be comfortable — it’s sorted. Just bring your usual shoes, helmet, and pedals, and you’re good to go.
Recovery Is the Secret to a Great Week
The temptation here is to do it all. Ride every climb, explore every coastal road, push the pace every day. And I get it — I’ve done the same. But the riders who get the most out of their time here are the ones who ride smart. Eat well after rides, get your legs up, get some sleep. You’ll enjoy every day more when you’ve actually got energy in the tank.
Post-ride views like these are the reward. Take them in.
Ready to Ride?
If this all sounds like your kind of cycling, we’d love to have you join us. At Velocamp Mallorca, we run friendly, well-supported cycling weeks designed to show you the best of the island. It’s all about great routes, local knowledge, relaxed group riding, and a bit of guidance where you want it — no egos, no stress, just quality time on the bike.
Hope to see you on the road.