Mallorca is a paradise for mountain biking lovers. Discover the best routes thanks to its varied orography, spectacular landscapes and a network of well-maintained trails, the island offers a great diversity of routes for all levels. From challenging climbs in the Serra de Tramuntana, to coastal trails overlooking the Mediterranean and rural roads through vineyards and olive groves, there are options for every type of cyclist.
In this article, we explore five must-do routes to enjoy mountain biking in Mallorca, highlighting their difficulty, scenery and points of interest.
- Serra de Tramuntana Route: from Esporles to Deià
If you are looking for a demanding route with spectacular mountain scenery, the route from Esporles to Deià is one of the best options for mountain biking lovers in Mallorca. This route crosses some of the most emblematic landscapes of the Serra de Tramuntana, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and combines rural roads, forest trails and technical descents.
Route details
Distance: Approximately 35 km
Difficulty: High
Accumulated elevation gain: 1,200 m
Type of terrain: Dirt roads, rocky sections and technical trails.
Estimated time: 4 – 5 hours
Description of the route
The route starts in the charming village of Esporles, a popular destination for cyclists and hikers. From there, you ascend along forest tracks until you reach the Coll de sa Basseta, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the valleys of the Tramuntana.
The trail continues to Valldemossa, a village with cobbled streets and traditional architecture where you can make a brief stop to recharge your batteries. From there, the trail continues through oak and pine forests, offering a technical and adrenaline-filled descent to Son Marroig, an iconic point with panoramic views of the sea.
Finally, the final stretch takes us to Deià, a picturesque mountain village known for its bohemian atmosphere and rich artistic tradition. Here you can relax with a meal in one of its restaurants with spectacular views or even descend to Cala Deià for a well-deserved swim in its crystal clear waters.
Tips for the route
It is advisable to take a mountain bike with suspension, as the terrain is uneven in several sections.
Bring enough water and energy snacks, as there are long stretches without services.
If you decide to make a stop in Valldemossa or Deià, take the opportunity to taste a coca de patata or a good plate of Mallorcan tumbet.
Check the weather forecast, especially in winter, as the area can become slippery with rain.
- Road from Cala Ratjada to Artà: a route between forests and sea.
For mountain biking enthusiasts looking for a moderate and scenic route, the route linking Cala Ratjada to Artà is a perfect option. This route crosses the Llevant Peninsula Natural Park, offering a combination of coastal trails, dirt roads and spectacular views of the Mediterranean. It is an ideal route for both experienced cyclists and those looking to enjoy MTB without facing too demanding slopes.
Route details
Distance: Approximately 20 km
Difficulty: Medium
Accumulated difference in altitude: 600 m
Type of terrain: Compact dirt roads, forest trails and gravel sections.
Estimated time: 2 – 3 hours
Description of the route
The starting point is Cala Ratjada, a coastal port with a vibrant atmosphere and a great leisure offer. From there, the route takes us along well-maintained dirt roads towards the Natural Park of the Peninsula de Llevant, one of the wildest and best preserved areas of Mallorca.
The road enters pine and holm oak forests, where the terrain begins to gradually gain altitude. After a few kilometers of moderate ascent, you reach a point with spectacular panoramic views of the east coast of the island, from where you can see small hidden coves and the intense blue of the sea.
As we approach Artà, the landscape changes and extensive fields of almond and carob trees, typical of the interior of Mallorca, appear. Before reaching the end of the route, you can make a stop at Ermita de Betlem, an old monastery that offers an exceptional viewpoint over the valley.
Finally, the route ends in Artà, a charming village with a well-preserved old town, ideal for relaxing after the route with a coffee or a meal in one of its terraces.
Tips for the route
Bring enough water, as there are no fountains or water supply points in the area of the natural park.
Use a mountain bike with good tires, as some sections may be a bit loose due to the gravel.
Wear light and breathable clothing, especially in summer, as exposure to the sun is high in some sections.
Don’t forget your camera or cell phone, as the coastal and mountain scenery is breathtaking and photo worthy.
- Sa Calobra route: a challenge for experienced cyclists.
If there is one route in Mallorca that every mountain biker or road cyclist dreams of completing, it is Sa Calobra. Known as one of the most spectacular roads in Europe, this route is a real challenge, with impossible curves, demanding slopes and breathtaking landscapes of the Serra de Tramuntana. It is not a route for beginners, but those who dare to tackle it will be rewarded with one of the best cycling experiences on the island.
Route details
Distance: Approximately 40 km (round trip from Escorca)
Difficulty: High
Total difference in altitude: More than 1.000 m
Type of terrain: Asphalt on the main climb, with the option of dirt roads in the higher areas.
Estimated time: 4 – 5 hours
Description of the route
The route starts at the Monastery of Lluc or Escorca, from where it begins a dizzying descent along the famous Sa Calobra road. This road, designed in the 1930s by Spanish engineer Antonio Parietti, winds through the mountain with 26 hairpin bends, including the famous “tie knot” curve, where the road crosses itself in a 360º turn.
After the exciting descent, you reach Sa Calobra, a small pass with crystal clear waters, perfect for a short stop and enjoy the scenery. However, the real test begins on the return ascent, considered one of the most demanding in Spain. With an average gradient of 7% and ramps reaching up to 12%, this stretch will test the endurance of any cyclist.
Tips for the route
Make sure you are in good physical shape, as the climb is long and demanding.
Hydrate well and carry enough water, as there are not many fountains along the way.
Choose the best time to climb, avoiding midday in summer, when the heat can be extreme.
If you prefer MTB, there are alternative dirt roads in the upper part of the Tramuntana, although most cyclists opt for the road.
Bring lights and reflectors if you start the route early in the morning or at dusk, as some areas may have poor visibility.
Return to the Hermitage of Betlem from Colònia de Sant Pere.
If you are looking for a mountain bike route in Mallorca with breathtaking scenery, moderate gradients and a cultural touch, the ride to the Ermita de Betlem from Colònia de Sant Pere is a perfect option. This route takes you through rural roads and mountain trails with spectacular views of the bay of Alcúdia and the Natural Park of the Península de Llevant.
Details of the route
Distance: Approximately 25 km (round trip)
Difficulty: Medium
Total elevation gain: 600 m
Type of terrain: Dirt roads, forest tracks and technical trails on the way up.
Estimated time: 2 – 3 hours
Description of the route
The route starts in Colònia de Sant Pere, a quiet coastal village in the northeast of Mallorca. From here, you cycle along rural roads surrounded by almond and olive trees, with panoramic views of the coast. As you advance, the terrain begins to gain altitude, entering the mountainous area of the Serra de Llevant.
The most demanding section of the route is the ascent to the Ermita de Betlem, an old 19th century building located in an isolated spot surrounded by nature. Although the ascent can be challenging at some points, the reward upon reaching the hermitage is unbeatable: a viewpoint with a breathtaking view of the bay of Alcúdia and the Mediterranean.
After a break to enjoy the surroundings and explore the hermitage, the return is by the same route, with a fast and fun descent along dirt paths that lead back to Colònia de Sant Pere.
Tips for the route
Bring enough water and some light food, as there are not many options to stock up along the way.
If you do the route in summer, get up early or choose a cool day, as sun exposure on the climb is high.
Make sure your bike has brakes in good condition, as the descent can be fast and technical in some parts.
Enjoy the silence and tranquility of the hermitage, an ideal place for a break in the middle of nature.
- Puig de Randa Route: cycling among monasteries and vineyards
If you are looking for a mountain bike route in Mallorca that combines nature, history and panoramic views, the ascent to Puig de Randa is one of the best options. This route not only offers a moderate challenge in terms of elevation gain, but also allows you to discover three historic monasteries along the route, as well as crossing vineyards and rural landscapes typical of the island.
Route details
Distance: Approximately 30 km (round trip from Algaida)
Difficulty: Medium
Accumulated difference in altitude: 600 m
Type of terrain: Asphalt roads, forest tracks and stretches of compacted earth.
Estimated time: 3 – 4 hours
Description of the route
The route begins in Algaida, a village with a great wine and gastronomic tradition. From here, a progressive ascent begins along rural roads that wind through fields and vineyards. The first stop on the route is the Sanctuary of Gràcia, a small monastery nestled in the rock with spectacular views.
As the road gains altitude, the Santuario de Sant Honorat is reached, a quiet enclave ideal for a short break and enjoy the surroundings. From here, the final stretch of the climb is more demanding, with slopes of up to 9%, but the reward is at the top: the Cura Monastery, located at the highest point of Puig de Randa (543 meters).
From the monastery, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the whole of Mallorca, including the Bay of Palma, the Serra de Tramuntana and the Pla de Mallorca. After a rest at the top, the descent is made by the same path, allowing a quick and smooth return to Algaida.
Tips for the route
Bring enough water and some energy food, as the ascent can be demanding.
Take the opportunity to visit the monasteries and learn more about their history. Some of them have cafeterias where you can have a drink before the descent.
If you like wine, Algaida and its surroundings have wineries where you can taste local wines, ideal to recharge your batteries after the route.
Choose well the time of the ascent, as the final stretch has little shade and can be hard in summer.
Conclusion: Mallorca, a paradise for mountain biking.
Mallorca is not only a sun and beach destination, but also a paradise for mountain bikers. Its varied landscapes, coastal trails and rural roads between vineyards, offer routes for all levels and tastes.
If you are passionate about MTB, Mallorca awaits you with its unique landscapes, challenging trails and perfect weather to enjoy cycling at any time of the year. Get your bike ready, plan your route and discover the island from a unique perspective!
