Mallorca: Cycling Paradise

From Ca'n Pastilla, we head south-east along the cycle path of the beautiful Bahía de Palma. Then the route turns inland before returning to the coast. This coastline is one of the least commercial in Mallorca due to its many cliffs sculpted by the blue waves of the Mediterranean, with long beaches and tiny coves surrounded by pines and junipers. Take time to enjoy the superb and unspoilt beach of Es Trenc and the salt mines before arriving at Colonia Sant Jordi. 76 km

First we pass Ses Salines, where the Romans extracted salt. A short side tour takes us to the lighthouse set on beautiful and rocky coastline. Then to the picturesque village of Santanyí, close to the Parc Natural de Mondragó with its rich birdlife and pretty beach of Cala Mondragó.The coastline is one of the most beautiful to be found on any Mediterranean island. Porto Cristo is a charming little resort with the famous Cuevas del Drac nearby. The caves are well worth a visit to enjoy a concert and a unique boat trip on the underground lake. 47 km

Another delightful ride to the charming resort of Cala Ratjada. The route takes in beautiful coastline and beaches with delightful beach restaurants and cafés. En route, we have the Cuevas de Artà, with the entrance to the cave overlooking the sea and huge chambers with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. There is a beautiful beach at nearby Canyamel and then the impressive castle of Capdepera. In Cala Ratjada we can spend time at the beach of Cala Agulla or Cala Mesquida or take the road to Cala Gat and the lighthouse of Capdepera with views over to Menorca. 46 km 

Artà is a charming village of narrow medieval streets, cafés and a fine 15th century fortress. An alternative extension takes us to the Ermita de Betlem monastery, with the most spectacular views across the sea towards Alcúdia and Formentor. Then the huge extense of the Bahía de Alcúdia with the birdlife of the Parc Natural de S'Albufera and the fantastic beach of Playa del Muro, Next is the village of Alcúdia with its medieval walls and Roman ruins of Pollentia, the spectacular bay of Pollença and our hotel in Port de Pollença. 

53 km / 71 km

Today's ride takes us out to the Cape of Formentor lighthouse. This is truly spectacular riding with the impressive cliffs plunging into the deep blue sea. A shorter version take us out to the beach of Platja de Formentor. Alternatively, take a short ride to the beautiful village of Pollença, or just enjoy a free day on the seafront at Pollença with its beautiful promenade lined with pine trees, cafés and restaurants. 40 km 

The mountains of Sierra de Tramuntana have some of the most spectacular scenery on the island. First is the pretty village of Pollença. The first ascent leads to Lluc and its famous monastery (vehicle transfer also possible to save some climbing). Then pass the famous descent of Sa Calobra. It is possible to take a boat from the bottom to Port de Sóller (sea conditions permitting - recommended to book beforehand). The land route leads through the beautiful villages of Fornalutx and Biniaraix before reaching Sóller and Port de Sóller. 62 km / 39 km

Our final ride takes us through more spectacular scenery of the Sierra de Tramuntana. Deià is one of the prettiest villages of the sierra and once home to the writer Robert Graves. Valldemossa was home to Chopin and the novelist George Sands. The stunning coastline and olive trees, oranges and lemons and almond trees finally lead us to Palma de Mallorca and then along the coastal cycle path to return to Can Pastilla to reflect on a marvellous tour and to start making plans for our next visit to this beautiful island. 85 km / 54 km

Depart from Can Pastilla, or maybe take an extra day or two just to relax and enjoy the lovely city of Palma de Mallorca.