Why is Mallorca seen as a Cycling Paradise?
“A scalextric set for cyclists” – Sir Bradley Wiggins
Mallorca is well loved by cyclists of every level. It is known as a paradise for cyclists and pro-peloton teams train here in the off season. Team SKY has its own training camp on the Balearic Island, and Olympians such as Laura Trott and Bradley Wiggins perfected their cycling talents on these roads. So why is Mallorca seen as a cycling paradise?
The Roads
Mallorca’s roads are not only smooth, mostly traffic free, and endless, but there are several different types. From long roads that allow you to ride for miles on the flat improving your fitness, to spine tingling hairpin bends that allow you to ascend and descend mountains, the roads in Mallorca allow you to perfect every aspect of your cycling skill set.
Your gear use improves as you learn to judge gradients; your breaking improves as you corner around hairpins, and your steering improves as you become more knowledgeable and start to use the bike and your energy levels more effectively. Riding these roads will improve your riding considerably.
The Climbs
The Tramuntana mountain range is a big draw for cyclists regardless of whether you are new or seasoned. One route made famous by Bradley Wiggins is the Sa Calobra ride near Team SKY’s base near Puerto Alcúdia.
Many of our guests want to ride the same ride as Mr Wiggins, which involves 26 hairpin bends and 668 metres of climb. It is an intriguing route as to ride Sa Calobra you need to ride down the mountain first unless you have a boat, as this is the only way to reach the coastal village where the climb begins. This descent contains 26 hairpin bends and has sheer drops, so you will need to keep your wits about you. Once you reach the village, you spin round and cycle back to the top.
Another famous climb is Puig Major, the highest point on Mallorca. Starting from Sóller in the west, you ride 14 kms with an average gradient of 6%. You climb 854 metres in height and the views are spectacular.
The Weather
Our Cycling Holidays & Training Camps run in February, spring and autumn. These months are perfect for cycling. Temperatures range between 14°C in February and reach 30°in spring and October. It also has 300 days sunshine a year. This climate is perfect to improve your cycling and far better than temperatures in the UK and Ireland.
The Culture
Mallorca not only has the perfect roads, climbs, and weather, it has the perfect cycling culture. Car drivers tend to give you more space when you overtake, and most of the island is welcoming to cyclists. Mallorca realised long ago the economic benefits cyclists bring to the island, and as such they have geared the infrastructure around cycling.
Breathtaking Views
With breathtaking views from mountains and on coast roads, to beautiful countryside and golden beaches, it is hard not to fall in love with Mallorca.
Experience Mallorca for yourself and improve your Cycling
Come and cycle further and faster and become a better cyclist in Mallorca. Our tours are designed to improve your cycling. You will receive professional cycling advice from Martin, and if you come in October or April, Sean Kelly.
We also provide cycling holidays where our guided tours take you to the best parts of the island, ensuring you have a fantastic Mallorca experience.
Submitted: 10/09/2016
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