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

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains

© J. Rains
A picturesque mountain village
The charming village of Puigpunyent is nestled in a scenic valley on the southeastern slopes of the rugged Serra de Tramuntana mountains. Its beauty is enhanced by forests of pine and evergreen oaks, along with groves of olive, almond, and carob trees.
A relaxed, slow pace of life can be found in Puigpunyent, and an expat community has been created here in recent years. It's especially popular amongst young families and those fond of outdoor pursuits. A couple of quality restaurants and cafes are attractive enough to bring in a few tourists, alongside the popular hiking and cycling trails passing through the village.
Puigpunyent hosts a small weekly market every Saturday morning where the village comes to life.
The town also has some exciting annual events in its calendar to look forward to, with the two most famous taking place in August.
The Puigpunyent Music Festival, where talented musicians falling under various genres put on spectacular performances for music lovers to enjoy, is growing in popularity year on year.
The main summer festival, the Festes de la Mare de Deu d'Agost i Sant Roc, consisting of sports competitions, arts and crafts, music, food, fire runs and more.
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 name Puigpunyent derives from the Latin phrase ‘podinum pungentem’, translated in English as sharp mountain or acute hill. People believe it pays tribute to the pointed peak of Puig de Galatzó (1,027m), which can be seen from all around town.
The Talaiot sites that surround the village of Puigpunyent date back thousands of years and suggest that this area was one of the first inhabited on the island. Son Serralta, Son Burguet, Son Puig and Ses Casotes, plus the necropolis of Casat Nou are the most famed. A 3,200-year-old, well-preserved Bronze Age sword was discovered by archaeologists under the leadership of Jaume Deya and Pablo Galera on the site of Serral de ses Abelles.
Under the Muslim reign, between 902 and 1229 AD, the moors cultivated this area for farming by creating water mills, canals, fountains, channels for the torrents, ponds and reservoirs. After the Catalans reclaimed the island in the 13th century, the church of Puigpunyent was built and was, in fact, one of the first to be built on the island as authorised by Pope Innocence III, in 1237. During this period, the cultivation of vines and olive trees increased and generated wealth in the area.
Until the middle of the 20th century, agriculture and cattle raising were the two main occupations. Some of the island's most majestic country mansions surround the village. Traditionally, these grand estates were the heart of village life. In recent years, many of these have been snapped up by wealthy expats.
Enjoy taking a stroll through La Reserva Puig de Galatzó natural park and its forest of evergreen oaks. Here you can relax with the refreshing waterfalls along the trail and discover the many endemic plants and animals. Within the reserve, there’s also an adventure park with zip wires, rock climbing and Amazonian bridges that make for a great family day out.
Bodegas Son Puig is a small family-run winery producing wine from the Son Puig estate in the Puigpunyent valley, located within the Serra de Tramuntana in Mallorca. A limited series of wines are made from manually picked grapes grown exclusively onsite.
Nestled in the Tramuntana mountain range, this area doesn’t have a local beach, but several stunning coastal spots are just a short drive away. Cala Major, Illetas, and Portals beaches can all be reached within 25 minutes.
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 Major is located within Palma Bay, around four kilometres to the west to the city of Palma.
Playa Oratori is the popular local beach for Portals Nous and Puerto Portals.
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.
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.
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.
There are a few different eateries in Puigpunyent and they all have a good reputation, so you can’t go too far wrong. You can expect a choice from places with picturesque views, home cooked tapas and pizzas, Mallorcan dishes with modern twists along with no-frills atmospheres and locals favourites of paellas and pa amb oli.
Mar & Duix at Gran Hotel Son Net is a refined culinary destination where the essence of Mallorca takes centre stage. Set within a beautifully restored 17th-century manor, the restaurant combines elegance with a sense of history, highlighted by the original olive oil press that commands the romantic dining room.
Sa Vinya in Puigpunyent offers a Mallorcan dining experience with traditional Mediterranean cuisine and stunning views of the Tramuntana mountains
Though Puigpunyent is a peaceful and picturesque mountain village, it still offers excellent dining options and a couple of great wine bars.
Quiet little Cala Estellencs is home to this tucked away, great little beach shack, serving basic food & drinks in a fantastic location.
Underground, international, house & techno from midnight until dawn. This is hands down the main attraction for electronic music lovers in Palma.
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.
This great casual hangout for larger groups of friends or family, offers the perfect spot to lounge in the evenings or on the weekends.
This stylish modern poolside bar is situated within the Portals Hills Boutique Hotel.
For hundreds of years, the tall, iconic building in the heart of Mallorca’s Paseo Maritimo, has been one of the city’s most iconic discotheques. Since 1923 the venue has housed orchestras and dancers performing in the greatest shows of their time, receiving the likes of Charlie Chaplin, Grace Kelly and Sean Connery. Glamour, class and luxury – Lio Mallorca takes the best from Pacha Group’s most emblematic shows with new performances and extraordinary acts performed for the first time.
Puigpunyent is a sleepy village appealing to outdoor enthusiasts who want to get up close and personal with Mallorca’s countryside. Whether it be kicking back and relaxing with a book whilst enjoying the beautiful surroundings or indulging in some outdoor pursuits like hiking, abseiling and cycling, Puigpunyent certainly has something to offer.
There are a couple of vineyards available for wine tastings and tours within close proximity of Puigpunyent. Visits can be arranged by appointment and you can buy wine directly from the cellars. Enjoy a visit to family-run estates producing top-quality wines with vineyards dating back to the 16th century.
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.
There are dozens of road bike itineraries that can incorporate Puigpunyent on the route, as well as some exhilarating mountain trails available for mountain bikers.
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.
A nice quiet route, if you stay away from the main roads and enjoy these resorts in a more laid back fashion.
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.
A fairly easy cycle with a few hills to get the lungs and heart going - be careful of the midday sun!
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.
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.
The best-known hike in the area is the climb of Puig de Galatzo, which is not for the faint-hearted as it claims an ascent of 1,000m. Those who dare are rewarded with outstanding views from the top.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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".
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.
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
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.
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?
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.
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.
Short-term rental accommodation in Puigpunyent tends to be peaceful and scenic, with options that make the most of the surrounding countryside. You’ll find stone-built houses and fincas with traditional features like wooden shutters and tiled floors, often set against a backdrop of mountains and olive groves. Many places come with gardens, terraces or pools, ideal for relaxing after a day out. The village itself is quiet, but staying here gives you a real sense of rural Mallorca while still being within easy reach of Palma. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for space, calm and a more authentic experience.
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.
There are a couple of hotels near Puigpunyent that offer a peaceful and comfortable base for exploring the area.
Set just above the village, expect rural retreats housed in historic buildings with stunning views, beautifully kept gardens and a pool overlooking the valley. The interiors will reflect traditional Mallorcan style with a refined touch, making it ideal for those after a quiet, indulgent stay.
If you're staying in the valley there are hotels located in centuries-old estates offers a more rural feel, with garden terraces, sweeping views of the Tramuntana mountains and a calm, homely atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
One of Mallorca's best boutique hotels; Grand Hotel Son Net is a stylishly restored 17th century mansion offering the essence of Mallorcan classicism combined with luxury and grandeur.
Located in the upper part of the village of Estellencs, this traditional country house has been restored with warm colours, keeping its original character.
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.
Located in the Valley of Puigpunyent, the property preserves the architectural character of a stately Mallorcan house, including its gardens, Clastra, defense tower, chapel, mill and oil press dating from the 15th century.
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.
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and Puigpunyent is a 30 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.
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.
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.
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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