Cycling vacation in the Balearic Islands: top routes

Can you think of anything that keeps you fit, allows you to explore new places, and puts wind in your hair and excitement in your eyes? Cycling! And did you also know that the Balearic Islands are one of the best cycling destinations?

Due to their favorable climatic conditions and their picturesque routes and trails, numerous sportspeople choose the Balearic Islands for cycle tourism every year. 

On Ferryhopper, we’ll help you get to know the Balearic Islands by bike.

A cycle-tourism event in the Balearic Islands

Best cycling routes in the Balearic Islands

The Balearics, which consist of Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera, are a cyclist's paradise. The 4 islands form a network of secondary roads spanning more than 1600 km!

The numerous bike lanes that wind through the major cities are ideal for new cyclists or those looking for a leisurely cycling trip. On the other hand, if you want to push yourself further and have more experience, you can participate in any of the numerous cycle-tourism events held throughout the year.

Ready to put on your cycling shoes? Here are the top 5 cycle routes you will not want to miss on the Balearic Islands.

1. Cap de Formentor (Mallorca)

The Cap of Formentor is one of the most famous cycling routes on Mallorca. It’s a spectacular ride along a peninsula on the northernmost tip of the island. The route begins from the picturesque northern town of Port de Pollensa and continues for 19 km until you reach the lighthouse on Cap de Formentor.

Cap de Formentor is hilly throughout, with the longest and most difficult ascent occurring right at the beginning, but it is never particularly steep. With breathtaking coastal views for the most length of the ride, the landscape makes the effort well worth it.

Furthermore, most motor vehicles are banned from the road during busy periods (July and August between 10:00 and 19:00), making the route more cycle friendly.

The Cap de Formentor lighthouse, the final stage of the famous cycling route in Mallorca

2. Tramuntana Coastal Road (Mallorca)

This 110 km road is in the southern part of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains and runs from Pollensa in the north to Andratx in the south. This path rises 2,520 m, taking you over Coll de Femenia, Puig Major (the highest point on Mallorca), Can Costa, Cap des Bosquet, es Grau, and Coll de sa Gramola. 

With the Mediterranean on your right and the beautiful Galatzo peak on your left, the views are breathtaking the entire way. This route also passes through some of the most charming villages in Mallorca, including the orange valley of Sóller and the scenic village of Deià. 

This is really a must ride route if you visit the island. In fact, the Mallorca 312, a mythical cycling race that welcomes thousands of participants every year, takes place in this area. 

Tip: for a coffee break with a traditional almond cake, Ferryhopper recommends stopping over at the coastal villages of Banyalbufar or Estellencs.

The Serra de Tramuntana mountains in Mallorca

3. Cami de Cavalls (Menorca)

Since it’s smaller and has no mountains, Menorca is relatively easier for cyclists to get around. 

The well-marked Cami de Cavalls is a legendary trail that encircles the entire island (it covers a distance of approximately 185 km). This cycling track is among the most outstanding in Europe thanks to its diverse terrain, lovely bays and beaches, cultural stops, and breathtaking views. 

The route can be challenging at times and we recommend riding a mountain bike.

Helpful Info: in case you’re also a big fan of hiking, check out our guide with the top hiking trails in the Balearic Islands.

A Cami de Cavalls sign pointing to the right in Menorca

4. Ses Salines (Ibiza)

We recommend Ses Salines to those who want to enjoy the landscape of Ibiza peacefully as it’s not difficult. However, keep in mind that although this route is simple, it covers 35.8 km and takes about 4 hours on average to cover. 

The route starts in the heart of Ibiza, passes by a number of beaches, including Playa d'en Bossa and Es Cavallet, and then loops back to the City Center via Cap d'Es Falcó and Dalt Vila. This route also offers the opportunity to explore Ibiza's heritage, as you will pass by museums and art galleries in the city center.

Bicycle standing in the middle of a dirt road

5. Pla De La Mola (Formentera)

Formentera has 32 green routes, 29 of which are suitable for cycling, and at 12 km, this is the longest of the island’s routes. Located on the easternmost tip of Formentera, it covers the entire La Mola plateau and is suitable for cyclists of all levels. 

During the ride, you will enjoy a remarkable variety of scenery: farmland, the island’s rural interior, vineyards, forests, and of course, incredible panoramic views from the majestic La Mola cliff tops.

Additionally, the trip will take you to some of La Mola’s most attractive sights, including the lighthouse, the El Pilar church, the Bodega Terramoll vineyard, and the Arts and Crafts Market that takes place on Wednesday and Sunday afternoons. 

Helpful Info: can’t choose just 1 cycling route for your trip to the Balearic Islands? Who said you can’t cycle them all? Check out our complete guide to island hopping in the Balearic Islands.

Road leading to the La Mola lighthouse, in Formentera

Tips to riding a bicycle in the Balearic Islands

• Make sure you wear comfortable and suitable footwear, a helmet and warmers (leg, knee, arm). Additionally, carry with you a gilet, a packable jacket and a puncture repair kit.
• Find out about the routes before doing them and make sure they are suitable for your physical condition and experience. 
• Make sure you bring enough water and food, as well as something with sugar in case you run out of energy.
• Start the routes early to avoid the hottest hours and do not go cycling if there is rain forecast.
• In case you want to rent a bicycle, on arrival at the ports you will find most of the car rental companies that also offer bicycle hire. This might be a better option if you're not staying long. 
• Stay at hotels providing maximum services during your stay such as secure bike storage, bike washing facilities, on-site mechanics, in-house shops, and packed lunches.

Transferring your bicycle by ferry in the Balearic Islands

If you prefer to bring your own bicycle with you, whether you’re traveling from mainland Spain or another island, you should know that most ferries that have a car deck for vehicles also carry bikes. Regardless of whether you have to pay or not, on most ferries, you will probably be required to book a ticket for the bike.

Small catamarans or high-speed ferries may have stricter rules regarding bringing bikes on board. Make sure that you check the company’s rules for the specific route and ferry before booking.

You can find more information about bike transfer on ferries in Spain in our guide on Ferryhopper and enjoy a smooth and comfortable journey.

Book ferry tickets to the Balearic Islands

Are you already putting on your cycling shoes? On Ferryhopper, you can book your ferry tickets to the Balearic Islands online. Find all the information you need on our Map of ferries and plan your trip in just a few clicks and with no hidden fees.