Two Loops, One Rainy Day – Riding Out of Palma
Not every ride goes exactly to plan, but that’s part of the magic. On a day that started with rain and ended with sunset beers, Harry – our Mallorca local ambassador – made the most of the weather with two spontaneous loops straight out of Palma. Joined by friends old and new, the rides turned into a perfect mix of climbing, coffee stops, golden light, and good company. Here's how it all unfolded.
Words by Harrison Hunter, photos by Tomas Franta.
Ride with Ignacio, a classic Mallorca Morning Ride
The day kicked off early meeting Ignacio’s in centre of Palma, greeted by fresh coffee and familiar smiles. I first met Ignacio on a group ride last year, and we've been friends ever since – the kind of connection cycling creates so effortlessly. We rolled out of Palma before sunrise, the quiet city still asleep under street lights. There’s something magical about those early hours, when you have the main roads to yourself.
Our route began with the Coll de Sa Creu, a local favorite right outside the city. The switchbacks, pine-covered slopes, and glimpses of Palma below always make it feel special, no matter how many times you’ve ridden it. From the top, we descended into Calvià, passing quiet streets and heading through Es Capdellà – a village I’ve known since childhood, framed by views of Puig de Galatzó.
The steady 5 km climb to Galilea followed, a nostalgic stretch for me, having first ridden it as a 10-year-old. We stopped midway to soak in the valley views – rugged, peaceful, and just 30 minutes from Palma. At the summit, we popped into the church square for a bite and layered up before descending to Puigpunyent.
Spring conditions meant a cautious descent – damp roads, goats, and stray rocks. With clouds rolling in, we skipped coffee in Puigpunyent and pushed on to complete the loop before rain hit. Es Grau was the final climb, a shaded, winding beauty that dropped us into the serene valley of La Granja, with its vineyards and wildflowers – a cold but stunning stretch.
Back on the main road, we skipped the MA10 and descended through Esporles straight into Palma. Warmer air greeted us, and we coasted back to La Finca Corner, where Sebas welcomed us with his usual smile – just as the rain started to fall.
Loop 1 done. Wet roads, warm coffee, and everything that makes Mallorca mornings unforgettable.
Evening Light & Good Vibes with Violet
After waiting out midday rain, the roads dried just in time for our second loop – this one with Violet, a Palma-based yacht stewardess and my regular riding buddy. We rolled out as the sun returned, her post-work energy matching the now summer-like warmth. Riding with Violet over the past few months has been a joy – she’s grown faster, bolder, and more in love with the road each time.
We cruised out of Palma toward Coll d'en Claret, aiming to catch the sunset light over Valldemossa. With time to spare, we made a sunny beer stop in Esporles – just 20 minutes from the city but a world away in vibe. It’s moments like this that make Mallorca feel truly special.
Back on the bikes, we climbed Claret with heavy legs (our own fault), enjoying sweeping views of Palma from its winding ascent. The descent toward Valldemossa was fast and flowing, opening onto a stunning stretch with views to Deià. The spring breeze had picked up, so we pushed into town for a quick snack beneath towering trees and quiet cobbled charm.
Instead of looping back, we reversed our route – climbing Claret again to chase the last sunbeams across the valley. A final golden descent into Palma wrapped up the day. Quick shower, then straight to pizza.
Two loops, three seasons, one perfect Mallorca day. Thank you, cycling. Thank you, Isadore.
