There’s something special about exploring a place on two wheels—and nowhere have I felt this more than in Puerto Pollensa, Mallorca. Whether you’re an avid cyclist chasing switchback climbs and stunning coastal views, or you just fancy a leisurely ride to soak up the sunshine and scenery, this northern gem is cycling heaven.This popular island paradise has been a known cycling destination for decades, noted even by the most esteemed journalists as one of the ‘greatest destinations in the world for cycling’.
When I first pedalled out from town and onto the open roads, I quickly understood why Puerto Pollensa is such a magnet for cyclists from all over Europe. The smooth tarmac, the variety of terrain, the dramatic backdrop of the Tramuntana mountains, and the glittering sea stretching out beside you—it’s the kind of riding that stays with you long after the trip ends.
Over the years, I’ve tried a mix of routes—some challenging, others relaxed—but each one has shown me a different side of Mallorca’s stunning north coast. So whether you're looking for a scenic spin along the waterfront or a leg-burning climb up to Cap de Formentor, I’ve put together a guide to the best cycling routes from Puerto Pollensa, complete with tips, personal highlights, and a few coffee stops you won’t want to miss.
Ready to ride? Let’s go.
One of the first things I noticed when arriving in Puerto Pollensa was just how perfect the weather is for cycling—sunny skies nearly all year round (around 300 days of it!), and an inviting mix of routes for every level of rider. It’s no wonder this charming coastal town in the Northern coastal town has earned its reputation as a cyclist’s paradise. I’ve found routes here that are both peaceful and invigorating—some taking me past dramatic mountain scenery, others weaving through sleepy villages with ancient architecture. Whether I’ve been after a casual ride or a real leg-burner, Puerto Pollensa has delivered every time.
If you're like me and love discovering a destination by bike, then these cycling routes in and around Puerto Pollensa are ones you won’t want to miss. From panoramic lookouts and serene monasteries to bustling towns and coastal viewpoints, these rides have let me experience Mallorca’s true magic, up close and personal.
1. Lluc Sanctuary
This is a route I keep coming back to. Cycling to Lluc Monastery, or Sanctuary of Lluc, is one of the most rewarding day rides I’ve done from Puerto Pollensa. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes via the Ma-10—just over 26km each way—and every twist in the road feels like you're climbing deeper into Mallorca’s wild, mountainous heart.
The ride up is no joke—it’s steep and pretty relentless in places—but it’s absolutely worth the effort. As you climb, the temperature cools off, and by the time you reach the sanctuary, nestled in the Tramuntana mountains (a UNESCO site, by the way), the peaceful surroundings almost make you forget how hard you worked to get there.
The monastery dates back to the 13th century and is beautifully preserved, with gold-accented interiors and a quiet reverence that feels worlds away from the beachy buzz of the coast. I often take a breather here, walk through the little botanical garden, and grab a bite from one of the nearby cafés. If you fall in love with the tranquillity (like I did), you can even stay overnight.
2. Cap de Formentor
If there’s one ride I always recommend to cycling friends visiting Mallorca, it’s Cap de Formentor. This iconic route starts right from Puerto Pollensa and heads northeast along the Ma-2210. It’s just under 16km one way and takes about an hour to reach the tip—though I usually take a bit longer because I can’t help stopping for the views.
The road snakes along towering cliffs and dramatic ridges, with the sea shimmering beside you and the Tramuntana range rising inland. Yes, the ride has some challenging climbs, especially near the start and again toward the lighthouse, but trust me: the panoramas more than make up for it.
Once I reach the lighthouse at the very end—the highest in the Balearics—it feels like I’ve reached the edge of the world. There’s even a little café there (Far Formentor), where I love to reward myself with a coffee or pastry while gazing out over the Mediterranean. It’s a must-do.
3. Campanet
For a different vibe, I sometimes head inland to the town of Campanet, a lovely little village tucked into Mallorca’s countryside. The ride takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes each way (around 23km), and it’s perfect when I want to slow down and enjoy the island’s rural charm.
Campanet is quieter than the coastal towns and has a strong local feel to it—cobbled streets, terracotta rooftops, and beautiful views over the rolling hills. It’s known for its agricultural roots and traditional leather goods, and if you time your visit for a Tuesday morning, the town hosts a delightful local market.
One of my favourite parts of this ride is passing through Pollensa along the way. It’s such a picturesque town, with winding streets, cozy cafés, and vibrant town squares that are perfect for a mid-ride pit stop. Whether you explore Pollensa on the way there or the ride back, it’s an ideal add-on to this scenic route.
4. Alcudia and Santuari de La Victoria
Just south of Puerto Pollensa, this route gives you the best of both worlds: coastal beauty and a hidden historic gem. I usually start out following the Ma-2200 along the bay—it’s a smooth, easy ride with stunning sea views—and in just under an hour I reach the Santuari de La Victoria, perched in the hills east of Alcudia.
This old hermitage feels like a secret sanctuary, completely tucked away from the tourist trail. The view from up there, looking out over Pollensa Bay, is absolutely breathtaking. I always take a few quiet minutes to wander around the tiny chapel and soak in the peacefulness of the area.
And if you’ve never been to the North-Mallorcan town of Alcudia before, this is the perfect chance. It’s about halfway into the route and packed with things to see—medieval walls, cobbled lanes, a lovely old town, and great spots for lunch. I often plan my ride so I can grab a bite and take a stroll before pushing on to the sanctuary.
5. Sa Calobra
Now, if you’re up for a real challenge—and I mean one that will test your endurance and your climbing legs—then Sa Calobra is the ride for you. This route is famous for good reason: it’s hard, it’s long, and it’s completely unforgettable.
It took me over three hours to reach the base of Sa Calobra from Puerto Pollensa (around 48km), and then there’s another 9.5km climb to the top. The road is like something out of a cycling film—tight hairpins, brutal gradients, and incredible mountain views the entire way. The climb gains about 685 metres in altitude, and every metre feels earned.
But wow—the descent into Sa Calobra village is breathtaking. You’re suddenly surrounded by cliffs and turquoise water, and it all feels like a reward for the work it took to get there. Then, of course, you’ve got to climb your way back up—but that’s part of what makes this one of the most iconic rides on the island.
It’s not a route I’d suggest for beginners, but if you’re an experienced cyclist and you’re ready for the ride of your life, Sa Calobra is it.
With a wealth to offer its visitors who care to uncover its diverse landscapes on two wheels, cycling in Puerto Pollensa is truly a paradise. Its surrounding areas make for the perfect day out to get an authentic taste of Mallorca and to truly immerse yourself in its wonders up close.
From defeating towering mountain ranges to reaching major pilgrimage sites, and exploring historic backstreets of some of the island’s most charming towns, you’re never short of options to choose from here for cycling in Puerto Pollensa.
Are you tempted to explore Mallorca on two wheels? If you’re looking for a place to stay during your cycling trip on the island, we offer a wide selection of rental properties in Puerto Pollensa, placing you in the prime position for the variety of Puerto Pollensa cycle routes on offer. Alternatively, you can contact our team, who will be happy to provide any help or information you may need.
