Mallorca offers a wide range of attractions for British tourists keen to practice sports. From high profile events such as the Uci Track Champions League, to hiking trails such as La Ruta de Pedra en Sec, Mallorca offers plenty of outdoor activities.
The combination of sports and tourism during the low season is one of Mallorca’s USPs for its main markets including the United Kingdom. The Consell de Mallorca (the island government) and its Mallorca Tourism Foundation are working on updating proposals to fulfill the demands of sports visitors whilst paying particular attention to sustainability and accessibility.
The stone paths, the rocky cliffs and its spectacular coves, combined with the mild Mediterranean climate and the diversity of its landscapes make Mallorca the ideal destination for the development of sports activities and events all year round but it is especially the case from autumn to spring when the weather is better suited for more demanding physical activities such as cycling and hiking. Those visiting the island to enjoy a holiday or joining a professional team looking to train can access information on Mallorca’s sports facilities on www.mallorca.es.
Cycling
From autumn onwards the island’s climate is perfect to enjoy cycling in Mallorca, whether professionally or as a hobby. The island boasts 2,071 km of roads and local paths clearly signed. There are 16 routes that connect towns, lighthouses, hermitages and the Serra de Tramuntana, including the Faro de Formentor route, the Sa Calobra road, the Andratx route and Son Carrió. Furthermore, and for the second year, on 12 November the island’s Balearic velodrome was the starting point of the UCI Track Champions League – an international cycling race featuring the 72 best cyclists in the world. In the autumn, Mallorca also hosts the International Master Cycling Week and the Peguera Challenge.
Golf
With 23 golf courses, Mallorca is one of Europe’s most diverse and sought after golfing destinations, thanks to its excellent natural environment and mild climate even in the winter months when the professional seasons start with the The Mallorca Golf Open. The island is also a huge draw for amateurs alike.
Athletics and triathlon
Mallorca offers a wild array of facilities and events for those interested in athletics including the Zafiro Palma Marathon held each autumn as well as various triathlon events, such as the Mallorca 140.6 Triathlon taking place at the end of September.
Hiking
From short trails for those looking to relax in the fresh air to more challenging routes aimed at more experienced hikers, the island offers a wide variety of itineraries featuring its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Traditional villages and mills dot the route to Cala de Deià, whilst tours along the coast allow ramblers to marvel at the extensive sandbanks, coves and cliffs characteristic of the area. The Ruta de Pedra en Sec (GR 221) extends over 100 kilometers of open and marked paths running, for the most part, along the Serra de Tramuntana, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in the cultural landscape category. Here, hikers can delve into the traditional life and vegetation of the island.
Equestrian tourism
The islanders’ fondness for horsemanship is reflected by the many equestrian centres and ranches that can be found on the island. The numerous excursions on offer, lasting between 1 and 3 hours, are a great tourist attraction promoting a different way of discovering Mallorca’s natural beauty. There is also a choice of riding schools allowing visitors of all ages to learn and develop their equestrian skills.
Sailing sports
Because of its prime location in the Mediterranean, Mallorca has long been renowned as a hotspot for nautical sports through the year fearing sailing schools, boat rental, waterskiing or wind surfing to name but a few.
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