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

© Jose Rains

© Jose Rains

© Jose Rains

© Jose Rains

© Jose Rains

© Jose Rains

© Jose Rains

© Jose Rains

© Jose Rains

© Jose Rains

© Jose Rains
Charming little village in a valley on the south side of the Serra de Tramuntana
Esporles is one of Mallorca’s best-kept secrets, a wonderfully pretty place thanks to the well-preserved traditional blonde stone architecture and stunning setting in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains.
Esporles is still very much a quiet place, with just a few bare necessities like a tobacconist, pharmacy and a couple of boutique shops. Carrer de sa Rectoria, the main street, is lined with majestic looking trees and fringed by a torrent running through the village. On the other side of the road, you will find a wide pedestrianised promenade with some cafes and restaurants.
Off the main street, there are lots of quaint narrow lanes with more of the same blonde stone houses, many of which have some spectacular views of the surrounding valley. At the furthest western point of Carrer de sa Rectoria, in the direction of Banyalbufar, you will be charmed by the dominant Neo-Gothic church standing tall.
Esporles and its suburbs appear to be untouched by tourism, which is probably why an affluent expat community have been drawn here. It’s a handsome village, just 20 minutes from Palma, making it a desirable place to live and this is reflected in the house prices in the area, comparable to other prestigious mountain villages like Deia and Valldemossa.
Esporles famously hosts the Fira Dolça food festival in October, where people travel from all over the island to celebrate sweet treats produced on the island.
Otherwise, there are a few small fiestas held for locals throughout the year in the small village like the Festes de Sa Vilanova, in honour of the month of August. Within these festivities, the Eucharist of Esporles, otherwise known as ‘the Last Supper’, takes place at the end of July. It starts with a procession of locals walking together to the Hermitage of Maristell, however, the paella contest is the main event for many.
Keep an eye on our events calendar for any updates.
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).
Established artists in Mallorca showcase donated artwork to benefit local families, with all proceeds supporting Fundació Monti-Sion Solidària (FMS), which helps 6,000 people annually through 200 dedicated volunteers.
The Moors established Esporles in the early Middle Ages and it was further developed in the 12th century when the Catalan troops conquered the Muslim city of Medina Mayurqa in 1229.
The first parish church of Esporles was already mentioned in 1248 but it was developed over the years and a grand neo-Gothic church now stands in its place. The oratory is dedicated to Sant Crist de la Pois, patron saint of the long-gone textile industry.
There was once a time where textiles prospered due to the good amount of rainfall and water systems, although the factories are now either in ruins or been converted into housing. The residents of Esporles also relied upon agriculture, traditionally orange trees, almond trees and livestock were their main assets to make a living.
The dry stone terraces around the neighbouring village of Banyalbufar are a must-see. From the road, as you enter the village, you will see hundreds of ledges falling down into the sea, but there’s very good reason for this. The Moors famously settled in this area during the 10th century and cultivated around 2000 dry stone terraces on the mountain slopes, making the most out of the farmland on the inhospitable steep hills, along with a sophisticated irrigation system of aqueducts which are still in use today.
Just outside the village on the road to Banyalbufar, you’ll find a museum set in a 17th century estate showcasing Mallorca’s history and traditions. Visitors can explore lush gardens, see traditional crafts and watch artisans at work, with exhibits ranging from olive oil making to a medieval torture chamber. There’s also a café, terrace and play area, making it ideal for a family visit.
This country house, just west of Esporles, is on a site known since Roman times for its natural spring. Since 1447 it has been a private house owned by various noble families; most of what you see today dates from the 17th century.
Ses Rotes Horses & Wine offers an equestrian centre alongside local wines in the serene countryside near Esporles and a unique experience for nature lovers, wine enthusiasts and equestrians.
Located in the Tramuntana mountain range, there’s not exactly a local beach. However, several beautiful coastal spots are accessible within a reasonable drive, such as Cala Banyalbufar or Port des Canonges
Offering a distinctly different experience from the more typical Mallorcan beaches, Banyalbufar is carved into the dramatic foothills of the Serra de Tramuntana. This small bay bears a few signs of regular usage, with terraced slopes and protective structures that blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Once difficult to access, Cala Banyalbufar is now easily reachable via a windy round, allowing all to discover its quiet beauty.
Cala Deia is a very beautiful small rocky cala with clear waters and rock pools, one of the few beaches on the west coast of Mallorca. It's quite a rugged beach here so you might need to bring a chair or a lilo to lie on.
Cala Major is located within Palma Bay, around four kilometres to the west to the city of Palma.
The closest beach to Palma is at Ca'n Pere Antoni. This stretch of golden sandy beach starts just beyond the cathedral. A promenade and cycle path runs along its length but behind these lies the main road that takes you to Palma airport.
Portixol is found just to the east of Palma's cathedral and is home to a little bay within which a little sand and shingle beach known as D'es Portitxolet Beach resides. The water is generally calm here due to the sheltered nature of the bay.
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.
For some of the island’s best suckling pig it's worth a visit to the village's restaurants, you'll find a typical Castillian steakhouse with a traditional wood oven within a rustic and cosy setting. Elsewhere you can find authentic Spanish dishes with food made using only the freshest local organic ingredients.
Tucked away in the charming streets of Esporles, Doble Coffee is a stylish artisan café where warmth, quality, and sustainability meet. With a sleek, modern interior and a welcoming outside terrace, this little gem offers a perfect spot to relax while watching village life unfold.
Not renowned for exceptional mixology or after hours parties, the town does hold its fair share of annual fiestas with local DJ’s pumping some fairly heavy beats until late during certain days of the year. However, there are a few local bars serving fishbowl size quantities of Mallorca-made gin, always ready to welcome the local residents and any new international faces.
Underground, international, house & techno from midnight until dawn. This is hands down the main attraction for electronic music lovers in Palma.
Quiet little Cala Estellencs is home to this tucked away, great little beach shack, serving basic food & drinks in a fantastic location.
This company, located on the outskirts of Palma, offer lots of entertainment choices: bowling, karaoke, arcade games or bubble ball (foolball inside inflatable balls) are some of the options.
Opened in 1988, this bar rapidly became a hotspot where Deia's famous inhabitants and visitors would gather and play music at some of the most legendary parties on the island. Nowadays, it still attracts big names in the music scene.
This great casual hangout for larger groups of friends or family, offers the perfect spot to lounge in the evenings or on the weekends.
Bar La Sang is the first bar in Mallorca to offer to exclusively offer an extensive natural wine list.
Being a sleepy rural village, Esporles is the kind of place you just want to sit down with a coffee and soak up the spectacular scenery. Its main visitors are those who plan to trek the ancient paths or attempt the challenging cycle routes this part of the island has to offer.
Visit the local family-run vineyard, famous for producing some of the first 100% ecological wines on the island. If you can, take the opportunity to visit the wine cellar but also the working olive oil mill on the farm.
Son Gual horse riding centre offers lessons for both adults and children, with some activities in English.
Whether you prefer classic rock climbing or the unique adrenaline rush of deep-water soloing, this is the island at its wildest and most exciting.
Whether you want to learn the basics, learn to lead outside or just get out and about on some great climbs, Rock and Ride will find the right venue for you: sunny cliffs in winter and shady limestone in summer.
This year Rock & Ride will be offering open group climbing sessions at one of Mallorca’s extensive and impressive limestone rock climbing venues.
This is a different way to enjoy a quality guided tour with your own car, and discover little-known hidden places hand in hand with a local guide using portable radios whilst you drive.
This company offers guided hikes and trail runs for all levels. Discover mountain paths, coastal trails, and hidden spots with expert local guides.
Located within a valley of the Serra de Tramuntana, Esporles is a popular place for cyclists to either base themselves or just make a pit-stop. During the springtime, you will certainly spot some cycling lycra around the village whether it be in the local hotels or making the most of the scenery in one of the little cafes. From here to Banyalbufar, cyclists can be seen tackling the winding roads, steep climbs and descents.
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.
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.
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 nice quiet route, if you stay away from the main roads and enjoy these resorts in a more laid back fashion.
The southern end of the Sierra Tramuntana does not have the epic climbs of the north, however this rolling ride provides no less than six different summits as well as some of Mallorca's most scenic roads.
Cycling from Port de Soller along the coast and through Deia, you will then travel on to Valldemossa before heading back inland and finishing over the Coll de Soller.
Hiking is the only way to see some of Mallorca’s best bits, and this part of the island is full of walking enthusiasts in the cooler months.
The most popular hike here is the Old Postman’s Route from Banyalbufar to Esporles which forms part of the GR221 or Dry Stone Route and offers some of the best views of the terraced landscape, holm oak woods, natural springs, and sea views.
You can also complete another part of the Dry Stone Route by taking the path to Valldemossa, although much of this is through dense oak forest which means the views aren’t as impressive.
When a post for the Mallorca Hiking Club popped up on Facebook on a miserable February day, it immediately grabbed my attention. My New Year's Resolution to get fit was but a distant memory, and this sounded too good an offer to pass up. I have always fancied mooching around the pretty part of Mallorca that I knew existed, but with a hopeless sense of direction, I was nervous to go off on my own in case I got lost and ended half way up a mountain in the middle of nowhere.
On a sunny February Saturday morning, we drove towards Banyalbufar to try the leisurely but beautiful Port des Canonge hike, along a coastal path at the very edge of the majestic Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. The path is called Cami de Sa Volta des General, named after General F. Cotoner who, in the 19th century, was the owner of the Baronia estate, now a hotel in Banyalbufar.
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.
Valldemossa is located towards the west coast of Mallorca. The bus line to Valldemossa, Deia and Llucalcari allows access to some fantastic places of interest, the woods and mountains, and some tranquil coves to swim in.
Valldemossa is located near the west coast of Mallorca. This walk was mapped out by Archduke Ludwig Salvatr during tours of his estates by mule.
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.
Lessons delivered at your villa pool by qualified, insured and highly experienced instructors.
Enjoy an exhilarating day trekking and scrambling through gorges, waterfalls and jumping into giant rock pools.
Mallorca has a great variety of canyons suitable from beginner level to advanced, with each of them offering a unique experience.
An exhilarating rock and water activity suitable for families and adrenaline-junkies, a great way to explore the coastline of Mallorca.
Why not have an adventure and try the new water sport, Flyboard? Located in Port Calanova which has the perfect conditions to try this fun and exciting sport.
Whiz around the local coastline with friends and family
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.
Staying in short-term rental accommodation 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 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.
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.
Boutique hotels are the way to go in Esporles and they have a more than worthy selection on offer from relaxing rural retreats in ancient estates with pools to more modern hotels set within fincas. These establishments have modern interiors set within traditional architecture.
Son Bunyola Hotel offers an intimate stay, providing the perfect base to explore Mallorca’s vineyards, olive groves, and charming countryside.
Situated in the valley of Es Verger, a nature reserve with breathtaking views over the south of the island, at 510 metres of altitude. The hotel is in a 16th-century manor.
High above Palma de Mallorca, in the noble estate of Son Vida. This is an unparalleled hotel in the island: an elegant castle nestled in a subtropical park.
This magnificent Majorcan country house dating from the end of the eighteenth century has been delightfully reformed, conserving the noble air of its buildings.
Situated in Banyalbufar, on the North face of the Sierra de Tramuntana, the Ca Mado Paula Hotel looks from the mountains towards the beach and the sea. It is located in an old Mallorcan house with a stone facade and wooden beam ceilings.
This charming 14th century farmhouse has been converted into an agrotourism hotel, where guests can enjoy a peaceful and relaxing stay in a rural environment and get involved in the hotel's agricultural activities.
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and Esporles is a 25 minute drive from Palma airport. Or take the worry out of getting from the airport and book a transfer.
There is a direct bus from the airport. Check for times.
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 taxi company offers 24-hour service from the airport to your accommodation all around Mallorca.
Multilingual company offering transfers from the airport to your destination.
Taxi PMI is the Association of Taxi Drivers of Palma de Mallorca, who provide visitors with an efficient and reliable airport transfer service, whilst also eliminating the need to stand in a queue and wait for the next available taxi.
The only British taxi driver in Mallorca, offering airport transfers to destinations throughout the island.
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.
Find out all about what is happening in Mallorca and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, fabulous beaches, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see, and experience on the island.
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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