Mallorca Cycling Challenge - Mens
This edition of the Mallorca Challenge sees an international line up of top cyclists competing in four separate races.

© First Mallorca

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains
Traditional rural town in the south-west of Mallorca
Calvia town is the administrative centre for the southwestern region of Mallorca. The region is said to be the richest municipality in Spain. It hit the jackpot when tourists discovered the nearby beaches, and developments like Magaluf and Palma Nova were built.
A world away from the coastal developments, here life continues as before the tourist boom. Calvia town remains a truly pretty place, with ochre-coloured houses, a handful of shops and bars, and chickens scrambling between the olive trees. The town is dominated by the church of Sant Joan Baptista, built in the late 19th century around a 13th-century original. Nearby, a fountain and a ceramic mural tell its history. Whilst in many ways, Calvia is still a modest Mallorcan village, the sparkling new town hall and sports stadium do hint at the area’s success. Still, it's hard to believe you are only a few kilometres away from the bustling resorts of Magaluf and Palma Nova.
Most expats live in the coastal areas of the region, and those seeking a more authentic Mallorcan experience choose Calvia town. With such a high number of foreigners having settled in the region, the town hall runs regular Spanish language lessons which are free for residents.
Calvia’s traditional weekly market takes place on Mondays. It’s the best time to visit as the town comes to life. Market stall owners sell a selection of clothes, fresh fruit and vegetables and some traditional arts and crafts.
The festival of Sant Jaume takes place for a week around 25 July and is one of the towns biggest events! A jam-packed schedule of events is organized for both adults and children, combining cultural and leisure activities with sports and religion.
This edition of the Mallorca Challenge sees an international line up of top cyclists competing in four separate races.
In late January, the almond trees on Mallorca start to blossom. The beautiful white blossoms cover the countryside until mid February. Son Severa hosts this country fair in honour of this important Majorcan crop.
Twice a year, the sun casts an image of the rose window that presides over the main altar in Palma Cathedral on the opposite wall, just under another rose window, the one that decorates the main façade. Thus, for a short period of time, two tangential rosettes can be seen, one made of glass and the other made of light, forming a figure of eight.
A significant celebration in Mallorca, this annual holiday, observed on March 1st, commemorates the date when the Balearic Islands' Statute of Autonomy was officially enacted in 1983.
Discover the natural beauty of Mallorca and its idyllic landscapes. The Galatzó trail is held at the Finca Pública Galatzó, in the municipality of Calvià, starting and finishing in the little town of Es Capdellà. The 99% of the race runs inside the Finca Pública Galatzó part of the Serra de Tramuntana (UNESCO World Heritage).
Parades of carapunats, or hooded penitents, take place all around the island from Monday to Easter Sunday to mark the Passion of Christ.
Archaeological evidence shows that the area was inhabited during the Talaiotic period (roughly 1300–800 BC), when early communities built stone towers, defensive walls and farmed the surrounding land. These structures, known as talaiots, can still be found scattered across the municipality.
During Roman rule, Calvià’s fertile land and coastline were used for agriculture, trade and small settlements. The Romans exploited the natural resources and established farms, villas and roads, some of which influenced the layout of later settlements.
In the Moorish period the area continued to be cultivated, with irrigation systems and farmland maintained by the local population. After King Jaume I of Aragon conquered Mallorca in the 13th century, the land was divided among Catalan settlers and nobles, with agriculture, livestock grazing and fishing forming the backbone of the local economy.
These layers of settlement shaped Calvià’s rural and coastal character long before the arrival of tourism.
The church of Sant Joan Baptista is the most iconic building in town, built around the remains of a 13th century temple.
Attracting thousands of tourists annually and especially popular with Brits and package holiday makers, Palmanova is a purpose built resort next to Magaluf in south west Majorca. Palma Nova actually hosts three separate ‘Blue Flag’ beach areas, Playa de Palmanova, Playa Son Matias and Playa Es Carregador.
The beach at Santa Ponsa is a lovely golden sandy beach in the heart of the resort, backed by shady pine trees for when you need some respite from the heat.
Cala Fornells’ overhanging pine trees offer ample areas of natural shade and retreat away from the Balearic sun, not to mention adding to the overall charm of the Mallorcan cove.
Playa Oratori is the popular local beach for Portals Nous and Puerto Portals.
Tucked away in a sheltered bay on the southwest coast and protected from the island’s gusty winds, surrounded by the wonderful aroma of the neighbouring pine trees, Camp de Mar is a modestly sized purpose-built resort.
Only 9km from the capital of Palma, Illetas is a holiday resort claiming three picture-perfect beaches. Illetas beach is the main beach, and is more sheltered than the huge stretch of sand that makes up the beach in front of Palma's cathedral, making this one of the nicest beaches in the Bay of Palma.
The town of Calvia only has a few restaurants servicing mainly the town’s residents, serving homemade Mallorcan cuisine.
Delicious freshly prepared foods using locally sourced farm produce and seasonal ingredients to create healthy and nutritionally balanced meals. Enjoy their selection of food at home, on your hikes, on your boat… or anywhere in between.
A wine store where you can enjoy platters of local and international produce alongside exceptional wines.
El Chiringuito is a beach bar located on a rocky platform in the small resort of Costa de la Calma. It's position faces west so it gets great sunsets!
Il Chiringo Beach Bar and Restaurant in Mallorca offers a true taste of the Mediterranean, set in a vibrant beachfront location. Part of the Grupo Il Chiringo collection, this venue blends the relaxed charm of seaside living with a focus on high-quality, authentic flavours. Every visit promises an experience to savour, whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, a light lunch, or a lively dinner by the waves.
Overlooking the beautiful beach of Palmanova, Barbuda Beach Bar & Grill offers fresh Mediterranean food cooked on their open BBQ and the finest cocktails created by experienced mixologists.
This is a great bar overlooking the marina in Puerto Portals that specialises in signature cocktails and delicious bites. Perfect for some people watching in the glamorous marina of Puerto Portals, this bar also offers live music and DJs, and regular party nights. Sit back, relax and enjoy a range of bespoke cocktails which can be tinkered to taste, and a succulent array of social dining options - setting the tone to party into the evening.
This stylish modern poolside bar is situated within the Portals Hills Boutique Hotel.
You can enjoy the best of both worlds here. The town itself is worth just walking around to soak up the historic architecture and relax in an authentic Mallorcan setting.
Down the road, in the tourist resorts of Santa Ponsa, Magaluf and Palma Nova, you will find some of Mallorca’s best beaches along with a whole host of activities like golf, watersports and adventure theme parks.
Welcome to Tennis Academy Mallorca located at the Tennis Center Paguera. This top international tennis academy and superb tennis venue offer a unique combination enabling all tennis enthusiasts to enjoy an unforgettable experience under the Mediterranean sun.
Ride through hidden backroads, coastal routes and mountain trails as you discover the beauty of Mallorca by bike, all year round.
With six clay courts surrounded by pine forests, the Royal Tennis Academy is located in Costa de la Calma (next to Santa Ponsa).
Located in Santa Ponsa, near Calvia, this tennis club is only 100m from the beaches in the south west coast of Mallorca.
La Reserva Puig de Galatzó is like an adventure park for both adults and kids offering not only a nature reserve but also activities like zip wires, climbing or a Tibetan bridge plus lots of animals.
Located just behind the beach in the heart of Palma Nova this is the perfect activity for families, groups and friends. Choose from 3 different tropical courses or play all 54 holes and enjoy a refreshment or range of snacks from the bar.
Visitors here are on the doorstep to some excellent cycling routes.
A nice quiet route, if you stay away from the main roads and enjoy these resorts in a more laid back fashion.
A fairly easy cycle with a few hills to get the lungs and heart going - be careful of the midday sun!
Enjoy a flat route by the sea that is completely on purpose made cycle paths so that it is safe for all the family to cycle. It takes you from the capital city of Palma to the beach resort area of Playa de Palma.
Palma is a really bike friendly city. The giveaway is the prominent red cycle route running all along the Paseo Maritimo and through the city centre. The weather is perfect for it too. Despite the obvious benefits of urban exploration on two wheels, Palma on Bike was my first experience of cycling in the capital.
On Saturday we hired bikes and set off on a hot afternoon to explore the beaches of Palma Bay. A shoreline cycle path runs from the northern end of Palma docks all the way to the resort S’Arenal in the south.
A flat road cycle but at a distance of 60km this could be a long ride for a beginner so be prepared!
If you're staying in the area, there are some great hikes that you can start from Calvia into the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range.
Puigpunyent is located on the south-west of the island. This walk provides some magnificient scenery without having to leave the road, which goes from Capdellà to Puigpunyent. The route takes in a series of ascents and descents, and cuts across woods and fields, with different views at each curve of the road.
From a distance this mountain looks like an impossible challenge, but the route is well graded with a handful of paths leading to its summit.
Andratx is located in the south-west of Mallorca. From Andratx, the walk begins in the direction of S'Arracó, three kilometres away. A short rest in this delightful village gives you enough time for a visit to the parish church, where there is a statue of the Virgin "Our Lady of la Trapa".
Camp de Mar is a purpose built beach resort with a really lovely beach, located on the south-west coast of Mallorca. This walk takes you along the coast and then over to Port Andratx, with an optional continuation to Sa Mola on the peninsula.
This famous walk runs from Port d'Andratx, in the south-west of Mallorca, all the way to Port de Pollença, in the north-west, following ancient cobbled paths through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range.
Once again, using my trusted hiking book ‘Mallorca, the finest coastal and Mountain walks’ by Rolf Goetz, I found a wonderful coastal hike from Portals Vells to Cala Figuera Lighthouse. A lovely, short and relatively easy hike makes it a contender for the best year-round walk in Mallorca.
Keen on the idea of diving, but not so keen on wearing an air tank on your back? Well, maybe it's time to have a chat with PETER?
We offer training not only to those that wish to work within the marine industry but also those purchasing yachts for the first time and wanting guidance to equip their new cruiser as well as receiving instruction.
Paddle along the coast and between islands on our kayaks to visit the most interesting places of this beautiful area of Mallorca, such as a cave and a natural pool where you can snorkel or swim in crystal clear waters!
Paddle around the south western coast of Mallorca on our kayaks, exploring at your own pace and enjoying the stunning scenery this beautiful coastline has to offer.
Discover the southwestern coast of Mallorca on a stand-up-paddle board at your own pace, and enjoy the stunning scenery while practising an outdoor sport.
Your first underwater experience. For those who just want to try diving where fun and safety are guaranteed!
Spacious five-bedroom villa with private heated pool, classic Mallorcan features, and a wealth of thoughtful facilities.
This elegant villa, set within the private Son Bunyola Estate, combines modern comforts with a serene atmosphere to ensure a truly relaxing holiday in Mallorca.
Historic four-bedroom villa with a unique bedroom set in a turret, private heated pool, and stunning coastline views.
Designed with exquisite taste, this stylish and modern villa in Moscari exudes class and good taste. With every attention to the utmost details, the property has a beautiful harmony of Mallorcan architecture and Dutch interior design.
With every attention to the utmost details, the property has a beautiful harmony of Mallorcan architecture and Dutch interior designed with exquisite taste, this stylish and modern villa in Moscari exudes class and good taste.
This is a luxurious villa that has been restored from old ruins with great care to incorporate the original architecture with a modern design.
Staying in short-term rental accommodation in Calvia gives you the freedom to enjoy the town at your own pace. Whether in the historic centre or near the mountains, it’s a relaxed and flexible base. With extra space and the option to cook or dine out, it’s ideal for a comfortable holiday.
This fully equipped and unique apartment is set on three levels, providing a quirky and fun accommodation for two.
This spectacular loft apartment is fully equipped and provides delightful accommodation for two.
This stunning duplex apartment is fully equipped and provides spacious accommodation for two.
This fully equipped apartment is ideal for two guests.
This fully equipped and comfortable apartment is ideal for two guests.
This fully equipped and spacious apartment is set on three levels, providing an original and fun accommodation for two.
The village of Calvia is predominantly residential but there are a couple of rustic boutique-style hotels within close proximity. Various villas are available for private use and are perfect for large groups looking for a base away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist resorts but still within easy reach of their attractions.
First mentioned in 1450, this site consists of various properties united in the 18th century to form a 132-acres estate. The current buildings, reformed in the 19th century, have been lovingly restored in 2013 to open as a luxury hotel that includes beautiful gardens.
An idyllic and peaceful hotel, where you can enjoy a gastronomic experience in the beautiful patio surrounded by the more than 200 years old walls of the rural finca.
Set against the stunning Tramuntana mountains and the dazzling Mediterranean Sea, this elegant resort is an exquisite pièce de résistance embracing luxurious resort living and their signature butler service.
Car hire is an easy option in Mallorca and Calvia is just under a 30 minute drive from Palma airport. Alternatively, book a private transfer to take the hassle out of driving.
There is no direct bus to Calvia from the airport.
Experience luxury and convenience with this company. Arrive at your yacht charter, sunset tour or boat trip in unparalleled style in a Rolls Royce Ghost.
The established company have been offering a reliable, reasonably priced, private transfer service in Mallorca since 1993.
This transfer company offers cheap and reliable Airport Transfers to all destinations in Mallorca with official vehicles and professional drivers.
This taxi company offers 24-hour service from the airport to your accommodation all around Mallorca.
A group of taxi drivers with many years of experience in the sector of airport transfers in Mallorca. You can book online in advance or call to book last-minute.
With offices in Alcudia and the airport, Majorca Airport Transfers has a large fleet of taxis, minibuses and coaches to suit all group sizes.
Set on an 8,300 m² flat, sun-drenched plot, this fully renovated finca blends authentic Mallorcan charm with modern comfort - complete with two beautifully appointed guesthouses, a saltwater pool, solar power, and breathtaking views of the Tramuntana mountains. Located just outside the historic village of Binissalem, in the heart of Mallorca’s celebrated wine country, this is a rare opportunity to purchase a tranquil rural home that’s move-in ready and built to a high standard.
Located in the tranquil urbanisation of Crestatx in Sa Pobla, this property is perfect for those seeking a natural and well-connected environment. With a functional design, the home is spread over two floors, offering comfortable and practical living spaces for families or friends to enjoy.
Experience the ultimate in comfortable living with this exceptional property located in the desirable urbanization of Crestatx, nestled between Sa Pobla and Pollensa. Boasting a prime location in a residential area with high demand, this fabulous plot features a charming small house that offers plenty of possibilities for extension to meet your future needs.
Golf Marina is a beautiful, warm and welcoming property situated near the golf of Pollensa.
Large, authentic Mallorcan finca for sale in Pollença
Charming townhouse with vacation rental license for sale.
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See allLatest News & ReviewsThe island hosts all sorts of events, including agricultural fairs in the spring and autumn, live music and DJs in the summer, religious fiestas and international sporting events. Some of the most popular are the Mallorca 312 cycling race in April, the Copa del Rey sailing regatta in July and the Moors vs Christians mock battle in September.
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