Best winter cycling destinations in Spain: Comparing Mallorca, Calpe, and Tenerife
What is the best winter cycling destination in Spain? As winter tightens its grip on Europe, we’re all on the hunt for milder climates combined with scenic riding options that let us enjoy cycling without the constant chore of cleaning our bikes afterward, right? And it’s no news that Spain offers several prime spots where the sun still smiles, and the route options are spectacular.
In this post, we’ll explore three of Spain’s top winter cycling retreats. Mallorca, Calpe, and Tenerife. We’ll break down what makes each of these top winter destinations a stellar choice for your next winter break.
Mallorca: A cyclist’s playground
Weather
Mallorca enjoys a gentle Mediterranean climate all year round, with winter temperatures usually floating between 10°C and 17°C. Seldom brushing against freezing, the island stands as an idyllic option for cyclists eager to keep riding through Europe’s chillier months.
Routes & difficulty
Mallorca is a cyclist’s utopia, catering to all skill levels. If you feel like it, you could throw yourself into a 200 km loop on the island’s west side, climbing a total of 5,000 meters and tackling all the major climbs. But even if you’re just starting out, Mallorca’s rolling hills provide the perfect ride without overexerting yourself.
Iconic routes like the one to Cap de Formentor and Sa Calobra offer all the Insta famous views, but also truly nice climbs.
The roads here are generally in good condition, though it’s wise to watch out for potholes on backroads. Except for the major climbs, Mallorca’s roads are pretty quiet particularly during the off-peak winter months.
Flight options & affordability
One of the reasons Mallorca is so popular is because the island is incredibly well-connected with affordable flights from basically all the major European cities, also during the off-peak winter months.
Prices: Accommodation & food
Mallorca offers a diverse array of accommodation options to suit every style and budget. From cozy AirBnB apartments in the heart of Palma to rural countryside retreats and luxurious villas, there’s something for everyone. Winter brings the added advantage of reduced rates, with many high-end hotels slashing prices significantly. Expect to find basic accommodations starting from around €40 per night, and more opulent stays hovering around €100.
Dining out in Mallorca won’t break the bank either, with a plethora of choices to satisfy your palate. A quick bite can cost around €10-€15, while more upscale dining experiences are available from €30 per meal.
Local culture & coffee stops
It’s no secret that Mallorca’s cycling culture is deep-rooted and incredibly popular. For those looking to join group rides there are plenty of options, such as those frequently starting from the Pas Normal Flagship Store in Palma.
Additionally, the island is peppered with cycling-friendly cafés which are perfect for a coffee stop or mid-ride break. Noteworthy spots include Sa Ruta Verda in Caimari, Cycling Planet in Alaró, and Sa Mola 13 in Sineu, all offering great coffee, tasty snacks, and nourishing meals.
Calpe: A training ground for the pros
Weather
Calpe, nestled on the Costa Blanca, enjoys winter temperatures that hover between 8°C and 18°C. Blessed with a unique microclimate, this area offers an abundance of sunny days, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the chill.
Sophia Willmes
Routes & difficulty
Since the 90s, Calpe has been a magnet for cycling teams during the winter months, thanks to its ideal terrain and diverse route options. The coastal roads offer scenic views but can be somewhat busy, whereas the inland routes provide all the solitude.
For those looking to properly test your fitness levels, the Coll de Rates is a favorite, stretching 10 km with a 654 m elevation. Its consistent gradient makes it ideal for training and chances are you spot Mathieu van der Poel and other pro’s training there as well.
However, it’s well worth going beyond this most popular climb. Tackle the stunning Vall d’Ebo, an 8 km ascent with 452 m elevation, offering breathtaking views, or push further to the Puerto de Tudons from La Villa Joiosa, a 27 km climb that ascends 1,000 m into the beautiful hinterlands of the Province of Alicante.
While Calpe might pose a challenge for absolute beginners, it’s an excellent playground for intermediate and advanced cyclists eager to push their limits.
Flight options & affordability
Alicante Airport is the nearest major gateway to the area. The airport remains well-connected and budget-friendly during the winter months. Round-trip fares typically range from €70 to €180, not including bike transport fees, and vary based on your departure location. This airport is a hub for several low-cost carriers including Ryanair, EasyJet, Transavia, and Vueling, making it accessible and economical for travelers.
Prices: Accommodation & food
Calpe offers a diverse array of accommodation options, especially during the winter months when self-catering apartments and villas become quite the bargain, starting from as low as €30 per night. For something a bit posher, or if you fancy a sea view, expect to spend between €80-€150 per night. While Calpe is well-known, it’s also worth checking other places in the area like Albir, Altea, Moraira, Denia, and Javea.
When it comes to food, the Costa Blanca is on the affordable side. Many traditional Spanish eateries offer simple menus around €10-€12 for a local lunch and about €25-€30 if you’re up for a fancier dinner.
Local culture & Coffee stops
Calpe boasts a bustling cycling community, with plenty of cafés eager to cater to cyclists. Topspots include Café Seamos in Calpe, Velosol Cycling Bar in Jalón, and Musette Café nestled at the foot of the Col de Rates in Alcalalí.
Tenerife: All the way up El Teide
Weather
Way more down south, just off the Moroccan coast, you’ll find Tenerife, a gem of the Canary Islands. Sat closer to the equator, Tenerife is famed for its balmy climes all year round. In the winter months, temperatures hover between a nippy 15°C and a cosy 22°C, making it the toastiest pick on this list. And owing to its volcanic roots, you’re far less likely to run into a spot of rain here than on mainland Spain.
Sophia Willmes
Routes & difficulty
Tenerife, renowned for its towering volcano El Teide (3,715 m) is an island where skipping climbing is simply not on the agenda. Her foothills call out from literally every turn, challenging you to tackle ascents from everywhere you go. That’s why Tenerife might not be everyone’s cup of tea. The climbs are persistent and long. Yet, the stunning views, sweeping coastlines, and the surreal, moon-like landscapes atop El Teide make every drop of sweat count.
That said, Tenerife is really a stomping ground for the serious cyclist or those looking for a proper challenge.
Flight options & affordability
Also Tenerife is easy to reach from just about any major European airport, with both Tenerife South and North Airports offering well-priced links. Return airfares can be nabbed for between €80-€200, not counting your bike, prices vary by connection and airline. The island attracts a bunch of budget airlines, and flights ramp up in the winter months, as Tenerife becomes a sought-after spot for those escaping the chilly European weather for all sorts of tourists.
Prices: Accommodation & food
Tenerife offers a decent array of accommodation options, from budget-friendly apartments to posh resorts. You can snag a simple AirBnB starting at €35-€50 a night, while the swankier resorts might set you back about €150-€200.
Thanks to the island’s varied microclimates, you might fancy basing yourself at Costa Adeje to enjoy all the sunshine. However, the rides up North are top-notch, though it’s a tad windier, chillier, and often misty.
As for food, Tenerife is quite a bargain, especially if you tuck into local fare. A meal at a standard eatery will run you about €10-€15, with fancier spots dishing up delights for €30-€40.
Local culture & Coffee stops
Tenerife’s cycling culture is growing, and you’ll stumble across a fair few cycle-friendly cafés dotted along the favoured routes. The easy-going vibes on the island in combination with the sunshine make every post-ride chill just as nice as the rides themselves.
Quick comparison: Mallorca, Calpe, and Tenerife
Conclusion: Mallorca, Calpe or Tenerife?
In conclusion, Mallorca, Calpe, and Tenerife are all top-notch spots for winter cycling. But, picking the right one for you depends on your fitness, what you fancy, and your budget.
Mallorca is a great choice for beginners or anyone after a bit of winter sun, a big cycling community and an Insta worthy scenery.
For those of you with a bit more experience in the saddle looking to push yourselves, Calpe serves up a mix of nice climbs and coastal rides.
And then there’s Tenerife. If you’re up for a proper challenge and still want decent weather, tackling Europe’s longest climb up El Teide could be just the ticket.
Whichever you opt for, Mallorca, Calpe or Tenerife, all these places are perfect for dodging the winter chill, staying in shape, and having a smashing time in the saddle, sure to make your mates green with envy that they didn’t come along!
