Cycling in South-West Mallorca: Routes and Climbs from Port d'Andratx
Early in the morning, the road climbing out of Andratx towards the mountains belongs to whoever is pedalling. There's no rush and no queue of hire cars. All you hear is the chain, the odd cockerel on a farm and, far below, the sea slowly dropping away. South-west Mallorca is one of the most rewarding corners of the island for road cycling, and it's even better once summer is over.
Why the South-West Is Cycling Country
This is where the Serra de Tramuntana begins its run north, and you feel it on every ride. In a few kilometres you go from coast to mountain, from coves to pine forest. Autumn brings mild temperatures, quiet roads and a low light that turns every bend into a viewpoint. Better still, almost every route can start at the hotel door. There's no need to load the bike into a car: you set off, turn towards Andratx and the island starts to climb.
Coll de sa Gramola: the Climb That Opens the Ma-10
This is the area's signature climb. Coll de sa Gramola is the first ascent you meet when riding the Ma-10 from the west. From Andratx it's around six kilometres at an average gradient of about 5%, with the summit at roughly 360 metres. According to Climbfinder, its steepest section is close to 10%. It's demanding but friendly, with a good surface and little traffic. Nor is it just any climb: the Challenge Ciclista Mallorca has used it as the first categorised ascent of one of its stages.
At the top you have two choices. Head back the way you came, or carry on along the Ma-10 towards Estellencs, with the sea on your left and the cliffs plunging straight down. That second option makes for a long day in the saddle.
S'Arracó and Sant Elm: the Short Loop with Sa Dragonera as the Prize
If you're after something shorter, the loop through s'Arracó and Sant Elm is perfect for a morning. The Coll de s'Arracó, lower and shorter than the Gramola, drops you into a village of stone houses and quiet streets. From there you descend to Sant Elm, where the island of Sa Dragonera appears straight ahead, stretched out on the water. Some versions of this loop cover about 18 kilometres with 400 metres of climbing. A coffee on the seafront, a photo, and back you go.
Camp de Mar and Coll de sa Creu: Climbing on the Seaward Side
To the east, the road to Camp de Mar rises and falls through the pines with views over the bay. Combined with Coll de n'Esteve and Coll de sa Creu, it forms some of the most popular loops in the area. The most popular road route around Andratx on Komoot is a 37.9-kilometre circuit that takes around two hours. It's rolling terrain that tests the legs, with plenty of ups and downs and the odd reward in the form of a viewpoint over the Mediterranean.
Riding in Autumn: What You Should Know
Autumn is generous, but it pays to be prepared. The days are shorter, so it's best to set off early and be back before sunset. Bring layers: a windproof gilet and arm warmers are enough for the descents, which feel cooler in the shade than you might expect. After a night of rain, mountain tarmac can stay damp on shaded bends. If you're unsure what to pack, our guide to the weather in Mallorca in autumn and what to pack has some useful pointers. And if you'd like to mix the bike with other activities, here are some ideas for outdoor sport without feeling the cold.
Ride, Stretch, Repeat
The best part of cycling in the south-west is the ride home. You roll down to the port with heavy legs and your body asks for calm. Our spa is the perfect place to loosen tired muscles. Afterwards, our rooms are waiting for you to rest before the next ride. If you need help planning your routes, take a look at our services or get in touch with us. The south-west has climbs for several days, and the Gramola always calls you back for a second go.
