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.

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© [J.Rains]
Portixol, together with Molinar, are trendy suburbs of Palma
The former fishing villages Portixol and Molinar, like many neighbourhoods on the outskirts of Palma, have experienced a bit of a renaissance in recent years. They have transformed from quiet fishing villages into some of the trendiest areas in the south-west of Mallorca. Their main attractions include a long stretch of beach, a beautiful promenade and a boho vibe. That’s before we even get started on the great selection of restaurants, bars and hotels servicing the area!
Portixol, just outside Palma, has gone from up-and-coming to genuinely cool. Head to the seafront where old fishermen’s cottages have become stylish homes worth millions. Along the same promenade, you’ll find modern bars, cafes and restaurants that draw people from all over. Only a couple of kilometres from Palma’s cathedral, Portixol offers a peaceful escape from the city. It’s an easy walk or cycle to the old town along a traffic-free path with stunning sea views.
Moving further east toward the airport, Portixol and Molinar meet and there is no sign to say where one ends and the other starts. Molinar has now been flagged as “up-and-coming” area and is reaping the rewards of its recent revamp, as we see property prices rise and new restaurants creeping in.
Portixol and Molinar don’t have a real town centre, as the main draw is the seafront. Along Carrer Llucmajor, just back from the shore, you’ll find a supermarket, a few shops and some cafés. Thanks to the nearby motorway and a local one-way system, traffic is minimal. Most people walk, cycle or skate along the promenade, where plenty of cafés and bars offer a relaxing spot to take in the views.
The area has seen an influx of wealthy expats, especially British, Swedish and German, though many full-time residents remain Mallorcan. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, with traditional buildings lovingly restored. People of all ages enjoy the promenade, whether strolling, sitting in seafront cafes or dining outdoors.
The Nit del Foc, celebrated in June, is one of the biggest nights of the year in Portixol and Molinar. The beach is beautifully lit by candles and tea lights, and people bring big picnics to enjoy the midsummer evening.
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.
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.
Based on the collection of Antoni Roig Clar, this museum showcases over 3,000 toys from all around the world and from different eraas.
This small museum of religious and historical antefacts is based in a wing of the former episcopal palace tucked behind the cathedral.
Just next to the cathedral is the impressive Palau March (Bartolome March Foundation) with a great collection of 20th century sculpture.
The beaches in and around Portixol and Molinar have not been massively commercialised to tourists like many others on the south-west coast which means that these neighbourhoods retain much of their traditional charm. On fiestas and bank holidays, you even get to see some pretty special Spanish parties taking place here, where large families and friends gather with their picnics.
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.
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.
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.
Cala Major is located within Palma Bay, around four kilometres to the west to the city of Palma.
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 de Palma is a long stretch of beach to the east of Palma de Mallorca and opening onto Palma Bay. It's also one of Mallorca's biggest holiday resorts.
Portixol and Molinar both offer a good selection of eateries, with the very best spots taking pride of place on the seafront. An assortment of cuisines is available, from tapas and Spanish seafood to Italian and more modern Asian fusion. Each provides the perfect opportunity to dine in a relaxed setting with terraces overlooking the beach.
This restaurant is ideally located in Plaça de Cort in the city's old town. Enjoy a delicious meal and watch the world go by as you dine al fresco.
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.
Feliz Restaurant in Palma is the ultimate spot to drink, eat, sleep, and repeat - all in one place. Perfectly located within the Hotel Feliz, this vibrant eatery welcomes both hotel guests and visitors alike for a relaxed yet stylish dining experience. Open daily for lunch and dinner, it’s easy to drop in whenever the mood strikes for a refreshing drink, a leisurely meal, or a special evening out.
Fabulous restaurant that offers an elegant yet stripped down version of Marc Fosh's extraordinary Mediterranean Cuisine.
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.
Nestled in a historic enclave just a few metres from Palma Cathedral and the sea, DINS Santi Taura is a culinary jewel in Mallorca’s old town. Located in the vibrant Sa Calatrava neighbourhood, where centuries of history meet contemporary life, this Michelin-starred restaurant (holder of two Repsol Suns) offers a unique perspective on Mallorcan gastronomy.
Portixol and Molinar are sundowner destinations, rather than big nights out. They are the perfect spot to enjoy a cool beer or to share a bottle of wine after a stroll along the promenade. Travelling around the far side of the port, on the way back to Palma, you can enjoy the beach club vibe, but for some late-night partying, hop in a taxi to Palma.
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.
Perched above the elegant Passeig del Born, De Tokio a Lima Restaurant and Bar offers one of Palma’s most refined dining and cocktail experiences. Set within the boutique Hotel Can Alomar, this stylish venue combines panoramic city views with a warm, sophisticated atmosphere that effortlessly transitions from day to night.
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.
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 Flexas is a bit of an institution in Palma. Well known for its vintage interior and unorthodox clientele, it is always an interesting night here.
Bar La Sang is the first bar in Mallorca to offer to exclusively offer an extensive natural wine list.
Whilst there has been an influx of cosmopolitan residents and some new restaurants have opened up, the area isn’t built for tourism like many of the other tourist hot spots on the island. This is part of its charm!
The main attraction here is the pedestrianised boulevard that stretches from Palma’s Paseo Maritimo all the way through to the tourist resort of El Arenal, at the other side of the airport. It mounts up to a solid 12km in total, making it a hot spot for cyclists, runners and skaters.
There is a large choice of cycle shops to choose from in and around Portixol and Molinar - city bike, mountain bike, single speed – you name it, they’ll have it.
Café culture is also big on the seafront promenade, although the keen athletes passing by might tempt you to get your active gear on for a run or cycle!
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the coast of Mallorca or Ibiza to any destination of your choosing.
Relax aboard a luxury yacht as the sun sets over Mallorca’s coastline. Includes drinks, snacks, and snorkelling, with optional tapas and cava.
Enjoy a fantastic day at sea and exploring secluded coves and beaches aboard a typical yacht from the Balearic Islands, "El Gordito".
Picture-perfect views from your vintage scooter
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the coast of Mallorca or Ibiza to any destination of your choosing.
Enjoy four hours on a private motor boat in Palma Bay, perfect for small groups or those on a budget.
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 gives you the freedom to enjoy the town at your own pace. Whether in the centre or nearer to the outskirts, 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 stunning duplex apartment is fully equipped and provides spacious accommodation for two.
This spectacular loft apartment is fully equipped and provides delightful accommodation for two.
This fully equipped and spacious apartment is set on three levels, providing an original and fun accommodation for two.
This fully equipped and comfortable apartment is ideal for two guests.
This fully equipped apartment is ideal for two guests.
This fully equipped and unique apartment is set on three levels, providing a quirky and fun accommodation for two.
There is a small luxury hotel in Portixol harbour which perfectly combines the old traditional style of the marina with contemporary features and comforts. Its location means it has the best of both worlds, it embraces the relaxed vibe in Portixol but is within easy walking distance of Palma’s city centre.
One of the latest additions to the hotel portfolio in the area has come from one of the global hotel groups with its Scandi-style with all the luxuries of a large scale hotel including restaurants, a gym, a spa and a rooftop pool with epic views of Palma Bay.
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.
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.
At the Hotel Palau Sa Font vibrant colours, modern artwork and designer furniture welcome guests to a hotel with charm and personality that offers a warm and familiar kind of service. The hotel has a real connection with its local neighbourhood from the local shop to the farmer supplying the organic olive oil.
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.
S'Alquería Blanca is located in the municipality of Bunyola, a great spot on the Northern coast. Six bedrooms, three of which are suites all perfectly styled in traditional Mallorcan furniture. Each room has its own terrace from which guests can enjoy a magnificent view of the islands, which stretches down to the bay of Palma.
This beautiful hotel building is part of the marine façade of La Calatrava, in the city centre and close to the Cathedral.
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and Portixol is an 8 minute drive from Palma airport. Or take the worry out of getting from the airport and book a transfer.
There isn't a direct bus 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.
Great quality service at rates that are irresistible. This company exclusively transfer you around Mallorca without having to pay an excessive price.
The only British taxi driver in Mallorca, offering airport transfers to destinations throughout the island.
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.
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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