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

© seemallorca.com

© seemallorca.com

© seemallorca.com

© seemallorca.com

© seemallorca.com

© seemallorca.com
From Playa de Palma to Magaluf and the capital city of Palma de Majorca
The good, the bad and the ugly sides of Mallorcas tourist development meet along a 25km stretch of coast. Tacky resorts sit next to exclusive retreats, it seems that everyone wants a slice of Palma Bay. One moment you can be in Portals Nous, with its chic marina crammed with millionaires' yachts, the next in seedy Magaluf, all British pubs and wet T-shirt contests.
Palma Bay stretches from the quiet coves of Cala Blava in the east to the lively resorts of Palmanova and Magaluf in the west, offering a wide variety of coastal experiences. Playa de Palma, one of the island’s longest beaches, is lined with soft golden sand, promenades, cafés and bars, while nearby suburbs such as Ciutat Jardí and Portixol provide a more relaxed, local atmosphere with seaside dining and small cafés.
Further west, Cala Major retains an urban feel but still boasts a charming beach, whilst the upmarket areas of Illetes, Bendinat and Portal Nous offer smaller beaches, secluded coves and elegant marinas. Palmanova is popular with families, whereas Magaluf remains lively, though recent developments aim to give it a more refined edge.
Beyond the main resorts, smaller coves like Cala Vinyes and Portals Vells provide a peaceful retreat amid pine forests and cliffs, with calm waters and morning sunlight ideal for a quiet escape. From headlands such as Cap de Cala Figuera, sweeping views capture the contrast of bustling resorts, tranquil beaches and the island’s natural beauty, making Palma Bay a destination that caters to both activity and relaxation.
This edition of the Womens Mallorca Cycling Challenge sees an international line up of top cyclists competing in three separate races.
This edition of the Mallorca Challenge sees an international line up of top cyclists competing in four separate races.
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.
Parades of carapunats, or hooded penitents, take place all around the island from Monday to Easter Sunday to mark the Passion of Christ.
The boat show is usally held in Palma in the spring, promising and delivering vibrant displays of fancy yachts and all things nautical. Set in Palma's harbour at La Llonja, this spectacular setting in front of the cathedral only adds the the glitz and glamour of this prestigious show.
Rialto Living is Palma's most famous interior design and concept store. Located right in the heart of the city, it has a small art gallery inside with temporary art exhibitions.
This small museum of religious and historical antefacts is based in a wing of the former episcopal palace tucked behind the cathedral.
A wonderful 18th-century Baroque building with feature courtyard and decorative touches, Casal Solleric is now home to temporary exhibitions specialising in contemporary art and photography.
The Museu Fundación Juan March houses a small collection of 20th century Spanish art shich belonged to the Mallorcan banker Joan March, once one of the world's richest men.
The Gran Hotel was Palma's first luxury hotel when it opened in 1903. Designed by the Catalan architect Lluis Domenech I Montaner, it was the building that began the craze for modernists (art nouveau) architecture in the city.
A royal palace has stood on this site next to Palma's cathedral since the Muslim walis (governors) built their alcazar soon after the Arab conquest.
Palma Bay offers a wide variety of beaches, from lively stretches to quiet coves. At the eastern end, Cala Blava features small, sheltered beaches framed by rocky headlands and calm waters, perfect for a tranquil start to the bay. Playa de Palma, one of the longest on the island, is a broad, sandy beach with gentle waves, ideal for families and long walks along the promenade.
Closer to the city, Portixol and Ciutat Jardí offer smaller, sandy beaches with a relaxed, local atmosphere, often popular for morning swims or casual sunbathing. Cala Major, just west of Palma, blends an urban feel with a charming beach setting, while Illetes, Bendinat and Portal Nous provide more exclusive, compact beaches with calm, clear waters and scenic surroundings.
Further along, Palmanova is family-friendly, featuring soft sand and shallow waters, while Magaluf is known for its lively beach atmosphere, though quieter spots can still be found nearby. Beyond the main resorts, Cala Vinyes and Portals Vells offer secluded coves, pine-fringed shores and peaceful waters, perfect for those seeking calm away from the busier areas.
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.
Cala Major is located within Palma Bay, around four kilometres to the west to the city of Palma.
The small resort town of Ciudad Jardin lies around five kilometres east of Palma. Its beach, also commonly referred to as ‘Ciutat Jardi’, lies alongside a quiet promenade lined with palm trees, offering a huge variety of different styled bars and restaurants.
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.
Playa Oratori is the popular local beach for Portals Nous and Puerto Portals.
Dining along Palma Bay ranges from casual cafés to more refined seaside options, catering to a mix of tastes and budgets. Around Playa de Palma, you’ll find plenty of lively spots offering local Mallorcan dishes, Spanish classics and international fare, perfect for a relaxed lunch or evening meal after a day on the beach. The promenade makes for a pleasant backdrop, with terraces ideal for people-watching.
Closer to the city, suburbs like Portixol and Ciutat Jardí provide a quieter, more local dining experience, with cafés serving breakfast, tapas and light bites. Further west, in the upmarket areas of Illetes, Bendinat and Portal Nous, restaurants often focus on Mediterranean cuisine and seafood, accompanied by scenic views of marinas and small beaches.
Family-friendly resorts such as Palmanova have casual dining with menus suited to all ages, while areas near Magaluf offer a livelier atmosphere with a mix of casual eateries and spots catering to evening entertainment. For a more tranquil experience, the smaller coves of Cala Vinyes and Portals Vells feature quieter, often rustic venues highlighting fresh local produce.
This charming restaurant has double height ceilings which highlight the bright and airy peaceful atmosphere and a wonderful terrace with spectacular views towards the marina.
Beatnik Bar and Restaurant, located in the heart of Palma at Purohotel, offers a globally inspired dining experience with a playful, adventurous edge. The menu blends bright Mediterranean flavours with exotic spices from Asia and Latin America, creating a fusion that is both fresh and exciting.
Located inside the Sant Francesc Hotel, in Palma's old town, this restaurant serves gastronomic Mediterranean cuisine in their chic dining room or lush garden.
This gem of a restaurant is situated in Palma's old town. It has a simple yet charming interior as well as tables outside which are a popular choice on warm summer evenings.
Fabulous restaurant that offers an elegant yet stripped down version of Marc Fosh's extraordinary Mediterranean Cuisine.
La Despensa del Barón, located in the historic centre of Palma de Mallorca, offers a true taste of the island’s gastronomy. Situated within the charming Posada Terra Santa, this Mediterranean restaurant goes beyond simple dining, inviting guests to connect with the local history, traditions, and ingredients sourced just a few kilometres away.
Nightlife along Palma Bay ranges from relaxed evenings to lively entertainment.
Playa de Palma has casual bars and terraces ideal for unwinding after a day on the beach, while Portixol and Ciutat Jardí offer a quieter, local atmosphere with cosy cafés. Palmanova leans towards family-friendly evening options, with relaxed dining and casual drinks, whereas Magaluf is known for its energetic nightlife, featuring bustling bars and music venues, though it has become slightly more refined in recent years. For a calmer night, the quieter coves of Cala Vinyes and Portals Vells offer peaceful sunset views and gentle seaside strolls.
Beatnik Bar and Restaurant, located in the heart of Palma at Purohotel, offers a globally inspired dining experience with a playful, adventurous edge. The menu blends bright Mediterranean flavours with exotic spices from Asia and Latin America, creating a fusion that is both fresh and exciting.
De Tokio a Lima Bar in Palma offers a relaxed rooftop experience with a focus on exceptional cocktails. Located above the iconic Paseo del Borne, the bar combines city views with a menu of drinks designed to impress. Each cocktail is carefully prepared using quality spirits, fresh ingredients, and inventive combinations that highlight flavour and balance.
Housed in a striking colonial-style building at the edge of Palma’s trendy Santa Catalina district, this is a long-standing local favourite that blends good food, great views and a vibrant social scene. Having made its mark in recent years as one of the more sophisticated venues within the hip city district, its Sky Bar is undoubtedly a great choice in which to start your night. Just a few blocks from the island’s best-known food market, the kitchen makes the most of fresh, seasonal produce, creating a menu of healthy, flavourful dishes served from breakfast through to late dinner.
This cocktail bar in the heart of Palma old town is renowned for its delicious concoctions and beautiful courtyard. It has been one of most famous bars in Palma for a number of years. Located in the depths of the old town, it has transformed its historic space into an atmosphere reminiscent of the splendour of the Baroque period. The magnificent architecture is decorated with a mishmash of fruit and flower displays. The prestigious setting means their cocktails are at premium prices and they have all the classics on their menu.
Agua has always been regarded as a cool place to hang out, and when you come into the bar you'll hear why they are known for playing the best music in Palma.
This tapas bar is located on a side street just off the Plaza Weyler in Palma. Enjoy vermouths and authentic tapas in a retro-style bar.
Palma Bay offers a mix of activities for all interests. You've got long sandy beaches, promenades, scenic walks along the coast or marina-side sightseeing.
Family-friendly resorts like Palmanova provide gentle waves and space for children, whereas more lively stretches near Magaluf include beach games, watersports and opportunities to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. For quieter escapes, the coves at Cala Vinyes and Portals Vells offer peaceful swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing in scenic surroundings.
Beyond the beaches, the bay is ideal for cycling, hiking in nearby pine forests and exploring the headlands, which provide panoramic views of the coastline and Palma city. Whether you seek relaxation, activity or a mix of both, Palma Bay has something to suit every visitor.
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the coast of Mallorca or Ibiza to any destination of your choosing.
Picture-perfect views from your vintage scooter
Set sail on a private boat trip in Palma Bay, with full-day and half-day options available.
Enjoy a fantastic day at sea and exploring secluded coves and beaches aboard a typical yacht from the Balearic Islands, "El Gordito".
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the coast of Mallorca or Ibiza to any destination of your choosing.
Enjoy a fun full-day or half-day boat trip aboard this luxurious Pardo 43 motor yacht.
An exhilarating rock and water activity suitable for families and adrenaline-junkies, a great way to explore the coastline of Mallorca.
Enjoy an exhilarating day trekking and scrambling through gorges, waterfalls and jumping into giant rock pools.
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.
Lessons delivered at your villa pool by qualified, insured and highly experienced instructors.
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.
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.
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.
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 along Palma Bay is a wonderful way to experience the area. There are numerous holiday apartments and villas. Portixol and Ciutat Jardí offer smaller, quieter rental options in local neighbourhoods. In the west, Illetes, Bendinat, Portal Nous and the smaller coves of Cala Vinyes and Portals Vells feature low-key villas and apartments, ideal for those seeking tranquillity, flexibility and the chance to enjoy the coast at their own pace.
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 stunning duplex apartment is fully equipped and provides spacious 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 fully equipped apartment is ideal for two guests.
Palma Bay has a wide selection of hotels to suit different tastes.
Around Playa de Palma, large beachside hotels offer convenience, easy access to the promenade and family-friendly facilities.
Cala Major and the upmarket areas of Illetes, Bendinat and Portal Nous feature more stylish and refined hotels, often with scenic sea or marina views. Resorts such as Palmanova also provide comfortable hotel options for families, while areas near Magaluf cater to visitors seeking lively surroundings and entertainment.
This charming hotel is located in the historical old town, in the very heart of Palma de Mallorca. It is within easy walking distance of attractions such as the 10th century Arab baths and Palma's breathtaking gothic Cathedral.
This hotel is specialised in golf, and they also have a spa. Sand-hued walls, terracotta coloured roofs, wood beam ceilings, and intimate lighting will greet you there.
Hidden in a thirty-hectare nature reserve, Cap Rocat offers refined seclusion in a restored historic fortress, with sweeping views over the Bay of Palma and a deep commitment to conservation and cultural heritage.
Wander into Palma’s gothic quarter and stumble across this 16th-century palace with original stained glass, chandeliers and tapestries which perfectly combines Mallorcan architecture with French, Italian and English styles. The hotel’s excellent location offer guests some stunning views of Palma’s bay and Cathedral.
The Sant Jaume Boutique Hotel stands in the heart of the old quarter of Palma, nestled between two important historic buildings: the Church of Sant Jaume and Santa Magdalena Convent.
Part of the prestigious Melia hotel chain, this establishment is located very close to the beach and open year-round.
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and Palma Bay is a 5 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.
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.
This taxi & transfer company operates out of Palma, covering the whole of Mallorca Island.
This transfer company offers cheap and reliable Airport Transfers to all destinations in Mallorca with official vehicles and professional drivers.
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.
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and Palma is a 5 to 10 minute drive from Palma airport. Or take the worry out of getting from the airport and book a transfer.
Depending on which part of the bay you are heading to will depend on what local buses can take you there.
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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