The Best Motorcycle Routes in Mallorca This Summer
Mallorca is, without exaggeration, one of the best destinations in the Mediterranean for motorcycle touring. An island of 3,640 km² where in less than an hour’s drive you can go from the cliffs of the Serra de Tramuntana to a turquoise cove on the east coast, crossing stone villages in the interior that seem to be frozen in time. If this summer you are planning to tour the island by motorcycle, this guide will help you plan the best motorcycle routes in Mallorca in summer with all the information you need.
To start off on the right foot, make sure you have thought carefully about the type of bike to choose according to the routes you want to do. It is not the same a scooter to move around Palma than a road bike to attack the curves of the Tramuntana.
Route 1 – The Tramuntana by motorcycle: the essential classic
If there is one route that defines Mallorca by motorcycle, it is the Serra de Tramuntana. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011, this mountain range that runs through the northwest of the island offers some of the most spectacular roads in all of Spain.
Route details
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Approximate distance | ~120 km (Palma – Andratx – Sóller – Pollença) |
| Estimated duration | 4-5 hours without stops, full day with stops |
| Difficulty level | Medium-high (many curves, some narrow) |
| Best timetable in summer | Departure before 8:00 a.m. |
The classic route leaves Palma towards Andratx along the southwest coast, goes up to Estellencs and Banyalbufar, crosses Valldemossa -one of the most beautiful villages of the island-, goes down to Sóller and continues along the Puig Major to Lluc and Pollença. In summer, we recommend doing this route during the week to avoid the weekend traffic and the caravans of cyclists that abound in July and August.
For more details about this route, see our specific guide on the Tramuntana motorcycle route, where you will find the best stopping points, viewpoints and recommended restaurants.
Route 2 – Cap de Formentor: the viewpoint at the end of the world
Cap de Formentor is the northernmost point of Mallorca, and the road to get there is one of the most photographed of the island. A narrow, winding road winds through pine trees and cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean, with breathtaking views.
Route details
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Approximate distance | ~35 km from Pollença (one way) |
| Estimated duration | 1.5-2 hours (only the peak, no other stops) |
| Difficulty level | Medium (tight curves, summer traffic) |
| Best timetable in summer | Before 9:00 a.m. (restrictions from 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. in season) |
The usual starting point is Pollença or Port de Pollença. From there, the MA-2210 road winds for 20 km to the lighthouse of Formentor, passing by the famous viewpoint Es Colomer, from where you can see the rocky coast and, on clear days, even the island of Menorca.
Important for summer 2026: In July and August, the Formentor road has access restrictions for private vehicles in the middle of the day (generally from 10:30 am to 7:30 pm). Motorcycles are also subject to these restrictions, so plan to arrive before 9 a.m. or after 8 p.m. in order to enjoy the area without rushing and avoid queues.
Route 3 – East Coast: from Artà to Santanyí by the coast
The east coast of Mallorca is perhaps the least known among passing tourists, but motorcyclists who discover it repeat without hesitation. Less traffic, quieter roads and some of the most unspoiled coves of the island are hidden among pine forests and low cliffs.
Route details
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Approximate distance | ~100 km (Artà – Cala Millor – Porto Cristo – Santanyí) |
| Estimated duration | 3-4 hours without long stops |
| Difficulty level | Easy-Medium (wider and flatter roads) |
| Best timetable in summer | Early morning to reach the coves before noon. |
The route starts in Artà, a walled village with a church-fortress overlooking the valley, and proceeds south along the coast: Cala Ratjada, Son Servera, Cala Millor, Porto Cristo (where the famous Coves del Drac are), Portocolom, Cala d’Or and Santanyí. It is a perfect route for the summer because you can stop at several coves along the way.
This area has some of the best beaches in Mallorca by motorcycle that hardly appear in conventional tourist guides: Cala Varques, Cala Estany d’en Mas or Cala Mondragó are jewels that you can only reach comfortably on two wheels.
Route 4 – Majorca’s interior: charming villages
Not everything in Mallorca is coast. The interior of the island, known as the Pla, keeps a network of secondary roads almost without traffic that connect small villages where time seems to have stopped. It is the perfect route for the midday hours in summer, when the coast is saturated and the interior remains calm and cool.
Route details
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Approximate distance | ~80 km (Palma – Algaida – Sineu – Petra – Manacor – Palma) |
| Estimated duration | 3-4 hours with stops in villages |
| Difficulty level | Easy (flat and wide roads) |
| Best schedule in summer | Morning or afternoon; ideal in cooler hours |
Algaida, with its historic restaurant Hostal Algaida; Sineu, with its millenary Wednesday market; Petra, birthplace of Fra Junípero Serra, the Franciscan who founded the California missions; Manacor, known for its pearls and handcrafted furniture. This route does not have the spectacular views of the Tramuntana, but it has something that is scarce in summer: Mallorcan authenticity and peace.
Route 5 – Palma to Andratx along the southwest coast
This is perhaps the most accessible route for those who have few days or want a gentle introduction to the roads of Mallorca. From Palma, the southwest coastal road winds its way through luxury villas, small coves and viewpoints overlooking the sea to Andratx and the picturesque Port d’Andratx.
Route details
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Approximate distance | ~50 km (Palma – Cala Major – Santa Ponça – Camp de Mar – Port d’Andratx) |
| Estimated duration | 2-3 hours without rushing |
| Difficulty level | Easy (recommended for beginner riders) |
| Best time in summer | Afternoon (from 17:00 onwards, with golden light) |
The arrival point, Port d’Andratx, is one of the most elegant ports in Mallorca, with restaurant terraces overlooking the water and luxury boats moored at the breakwater. It is the ideal place to have a drink and watch the sun set over the Mediterranean before returning to Palma. To get to your scooter without hassle from the airport, remember that you can rent a scooter at Palma airport with PalmaRiders.
Tips for hiking in summer (heat, schedules, water)
Motorcycling in Mallorca in summer is fantastic, but it requires adapting to the summer conditions. Here are the most important tips to make every kilometer enjoyable.
Manage schedules well
The golden rule of summer in Mallorca is simple: get up early. The best hours to circulate are from 7:00 to 11:00 in the morning and from 17:00 onwards. The central hours of the day (12:00-16:00) concentrate the highest heat, the most traffic and access restrictions to protected areas. Take advantage of them for a siesta, the beach or a long lunch.
Hydration: more than you think
When you ride a motorcycle, the wind cools you and can fool you: you don’t notice that you’re sweating. But at 30-35°C and in direct sunlight, dehydration is real. Drink at least one liter of water for every two hours of riding, and always carry a bottle of cold water in your trunk or backpack. At stops, take the opportunity to replenish fluids and eat something light.
Sun protection and technical clothing
Although motorcycle clothing protects the skin from abrasions, exposed areas (hands, neck, face) need sun protection. Use sunscreen with SPF 50+ and renew it at every stop. As for equipment, summer motorcycle jackets with mesh panels allow you to ride with protection without dying of heat. Read our guide on how to prepare for a day on the bike so you don’t forget anything.
Plan stops in advance
In summer, many gas stations in rural areas have reduced opening hours and parking lots at tourist spots fill up very quickly. Before leaving, identify where to refuel and what parking options you have at key points along your route. For motorcycles there is usually more flexibility than for cars, but in places like Formentor or Deià, in August, even motorcycles need to arrive early.
Reserve your motorcycle in advance
In high season, the fleet of scooter rentals in Mallorca is sold out weeks in advance. If you have fixed dates, book as soon as possible and make sure you bring all the necessary documentation. And if it is your first time renting a scooter on the island, read about the mistakes when renting a scooter to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Frequently asked questions about motorcycle tours in Mallorca in summer
What is the easiest route for beginners?
The route from Palma to Andratx along the southwest coast is ideal for beginners: wide roads, little gradient and manageable distance. The inland route (Algaida-Sineu-Petra) is also excellent for beginners.
Is it possible to do the Tramuntana on a 125cc scooter?
Technically yes, but it is not ideal. The roads of the Tramuntana have slopes and curves that appreciate more power. A motorcycle of at least 300cc will make the experience much more comfortable and safe. Check with PalmaRiders which model is best suited for this route.
Are there traffic restrictions on the roads during the summer?
Yes, mainly in Cap de Formentor and some roads of the Tramuntana. These restrictions are usually applied in July and August in the middle of the day to reduce congestion. Always check the restrictions in force before leaving, as they may vary each season.
How many days do I need to do all the routes?
If you want to do the five routes described in this guide calmly, calculate between 4 and 5 days. If you have less time, the Tramuntana and Cap de Formentor are the most iconic routes and can be combined in two intense days.
Can I rent the motorcycle at the airport?
Yes, PalmaRiders offers delivery service at Palma airport, allowing you to start your adventure as soon as you land. Please book in advance to guarantee availability.
Mallorca awaits. With more than 500 km of roads worthy of being traveled by motorcycle, every summer is a perfect excuse to return and discover some corner that was left pending. Choose your route, book your motorcycle with PalmaRiders and enjoy the island as it deserves: with the wind in your face and the Mediterranean in the background.
