Palma to Andratx — Mallorca Coastal Cycling Loop

We rode this on the day we arrived in Mallorca — based on the west side of Palma, which gave us a perfect start right out the door.

The route begins immediately with Coll de Sa Creu — known locally as the Military Climb, named after the large military base at the foot of the climb. No warm-up, straight into it from the city. The climb winds through forested terrain with hairpins and almost no traffic. A proper opener.

After the descent to the coast, the route follows the southwest shoreline westward. This is glamorous Mallorca — Cala Major where the Spanish royal family spend their summers, the fashionable enclaves of Illetes and Portals Nous, superyachts in the marinas. The riding here is enjoyable but busy.

Port d'Andratx is the jewel of the route. One of the most beautiful harbour towns on the island, and you can tell from the size of the houses and boats that serious money comes here. We stopped for lunch — good selection of restaurants and cafés right by the water.

From Andratx the route turns inland through Es Capdellà. The contrast is immediate — quiet narrow roads, olive groves, almond trees, almost no traffic. The Es Capdellà climb is a fine one: smooth asphalt, steady gradient, Galatzó mountain above you. A completely different Mallorca from the coast.

The final descent back to Palma with the cathedral appearing on the horizon is a satisfying finish to a varied day.