Exploring Mallorca: A Hidden Haven for Gravel Riders

For both cyclists and non-cyclist vacationers, Mallorca is widely recognized as one of the premier holiday destinations. Originally put on the map by Germans and Brits escaping the less-than-friendly weather of their home countries, the largest of the Balearic Islands can satisfy a range of vacation styles: from lounging on sandy beaches, to seeking active adventure, to capturing the perfect scenic backdrop. Mallorca has it all. Temperatures are ideal for outdoor activities year-round, and even when they breach 38 degrees Celsius, cycling enthusiasts can still find routes suited to their riding style.

Traditionally known for its impeccable road surfaces, UNESCO-listed Tramuntana mountain range, and picturesque Mallorcan towns, road cycling has historically dominated the island’s biking culture. However, Mallorca has not escaped the global trend of gravel riding. Gravel biking bridges the gap between road and mountain biking, allowing exploration of new routes, often away from traffic, but at a faster pace than its fatter-wheeled cousin (MTB). And this is exactly what gravel has brought to Mallorca. Mass tourism, though, has left its mark on the island’s beauty. In the northwest, development caters to those seeking large resorts, restaurants, and nightlife, and cruise ships frequently dock at the Port of Palma. During peak season, thousands of spandex-clad cyclists flood the island, saturating its roads. In contrast, the lesser-traveled gravel paths offer an oasis amidst the hustle and bustle.

But why hasn’t gravel riding caught on here like in Girona or Andalucía? To find out, I packed my Scarab Páramo and set out to explore it myself. Although I could spot gravel routes on the map, I wondered why they weren’t as popular as the road options. Using the new Strava Premium feature that suggests routes based on distance, elevation, terrain, and location, I saved a few promising routes on my computer, ready to see if this could be the next gravel paradise.

The first few rides took me through the plains in the heart of the island, nestled between the Tramuntana to the north and the Serra de Levante to the south. With much of the island’s agriculture based here, there were plenty of gravel paths. These were much as I expected—fairly smooth, flat, and fast. Although the winding turns defined the pace, my curiosity turned toward the mountains. Definite tracks appeared on the map, but were they rideable? Only one way to find out.

The paths in and out of the mountains were rocky—certainly not the Gucci gravel of a rider’s dreams. Fortunately, my Páramo was equipped with 45mm tires. The extra width and the steel frame let me navigate the rough terrain comfortably and safely, even if it did bring back memories of my mountain biking days. Despite the challenge, the views of remote landscapes were a worthwhile reward, and the solitude allowed me to connect with nature without feeling lonely, far from the crowds.