When to visit (Without Regretting It Later)
So, you’re planning a cycling trip to Mallorca? Great shout. But before you pack your bibs and book the 6:30am Ryanair special, let’s talk about when to visit.
While Mallorca is a year-round cycling paradise, the experience can vary massively depending on the season. From quiet mountain roads in winter to golden-hour glows in summer, here’s my brutally honest, no-fluff guide to choosing the right time for your trip.
Winter (Off-Season): November to February
A stunning late-winter ride…
Verdict: Quiet, cheap, moody – for the brave and flexible.
The roads are gloriously empty. It often feels like you’ve got the MA10 all to yourself.
Most hotels in Port de Pollença and Alcúdia shut down completely. Airbnb is your best bet, or base yourself in Palma for better vibes, open cafés, and slightly warmer weather.
Weather is unpredictable. It could be 20°C and sunny… or four days of sideways rain. Not ideal if you’re planning months in advance, but perfect for a last-minute getaway if the forecast looks dreamy.
The mountains can get seriously cold. Bring layers. Proper ones.
Descents in the rain? Slick. Stay cautious – the road surface changes fast.
About half the island’s bike shops close in winter. Book ahead and check who’s open.
Almond blossom season is in February and is bloody spectacular, if you’re into that kind of thing…
Tip: If the forecast looks good for next week, book it. You might catch the island at its very best.
Spring: March to May
Verdict: Peak season, peak vibes, peak planning required.
This is Mallorca at its absolute cycling best. Blue skies, full cafés, and every climb buzzing with cyclists.
All hotels, restaurants, and rental shops are open and busy.
The weather is mostly excellent, especially from mid-April onwards.
Expect bigger crowds during Easter, UK half-term, and the Mallorca 312 weekend. If you want a rental bike during these times, book early. Seriously, months early.
Sa Calobra and the Lighthouse become hotspots for coach/car/cyclist congestion.
Tip: If you're here for the 312, consider arriving earlier or staying later to actually enjoy the roads before or after the event.
Summer: June to August
Verdict: Scorching. Still rideable, but plan around the heat.
Yes, it’s hot. Like, bake-your-head-in-a-helmet hot.
Ride early (think sunrise) or just before sunset. Midday rides are for masochists.
Water, electrolytes, sun cream. Repeat. SPF 50 is not optional.
Fewer cyclists on the road, which makes for quieter climbs and better availability at bike shops.
Some rental shops close for a summer break. Others offer discounts.
It’s still peak tourist season for non-cyclists, so the island is buzzing – cafés, beaches, bars, all full.
Golden hour rides are stunning. Low light, quiet roads, and postcard views.
Tip: Finish your ride with a swim. No better recovery plan.
Autumn: September to October
Verdict: The spring experience, minus the chaos.
This might just be the best time to visit. The weather is warm, but the crowds have thinned.
Everything is still open – bike shops, cafés, hotels – but there's a calmer energy.
Rental bikes are easier to book, and restaurant queues are shorter.
Roads are quieter, and you may even get some of the more popular climbs to yourself.
Cooler mornings mean it’s still worth bringing a gilet or light jacket.
Tip: If you can’t decide between spring and autumn, pick this. It's consistently brilliant.
A late Autumn day where everything went tits up…
Final Thoughts
There’s no bad time to cycle in Mallorca – but there is a best time for you.
If you're chasing cool climbs and café stops, aim for spring or autumn. If you want total solitude, take a punt on winter. If you're after tan lines and post-ride sea dips, summer is still in the game (just start early).
No matter when you visit, plan ahead, ride early, and leave room for almond cake.
Need help planning your trip?
From route advice and bike rentals to guided rides and full video packages, I’ve got you covered. I also work with the brilliant team at Medfeel to offer bespoke cycling holidays – with me as your guide, if you fancy it.
