Away from the Coast: Circular Route from Cala Millor into Mallorca's Rural East

Away from the Coast: Circular Route from Cala Millor into Mallorca's Rural East

Between pines, possessions and the plaça – a tour for seasoned legs and curious eyes

In the morning, when fishermen are sorting their nets in the harbor of Cala Millor and a light salty scent hangs over the promenade, more and more cyclists are now setting off on the round into the island's interior. The route starts and ends in Cala Millor and can be ridden as a compact loop or with additional detours.

Official figures state a base length of just under 44 kilometers; if you add variants, it's easy to reach around 60 kilometers. The route combines flat coastal sections with steeper climbs into the hinterland. Riders alternate between quiet side roads, short farm tracks and notable stretches that are technically demanding.

The first stage heads toward Son Servera. The town, with its shady side streets and the sound of cafés, is perfect for a short bakery stop. From there it continues into the hillier area around Artà: the paths open views to distinctive rises such as the Morro den Farrutx. In Artà a stop at the plaza is worthwhile; stone walls, a bakery with still-warm ensaimadas and the soft clatter of plates in a small café make for a pleasant backdrop.

A section of the route runs along the so-called Carretera dels Rentadors – strong legs are required here. The gradients alternate with tight bends; if unsure, reduce speed or walk the bike at the steepest points. After Artà the landscape opens up, olive groves and isolated possessions line the way, and small irrigation channels occasionally gurgle at the roadside.

The route to Sant Llorenç partly follows the Camí de Carrossa. In villages like Sant Llorenç the differences between coast and inland become immediately visible: modest village squares, a church, a supermarket – ideal for resupplying. Note: some rural sections are in poor condition. Especially in and around Sant Llorenç there are stretches with rough road surface where caution is advised.

On the way back toward the coast the route passes Son Carrió and Sa Torre Nova. Between old stone walls and fields there are numerous accesses to typical Mallorcan country houses. The sounds change: less car noise, more birds and the distant hum of tractors.

Practically speaking: a robust road bike or a gravel bike is recommended for this tour. Good tires, repair kit and a small pump belong in the backpack, as does enough water. Supply options appear in small towns but are not guaranteed throughout.

The best time for such outings is the transitional period from autumn to spring; in high summer months temperatures over 30°C can be challenging. Those who start in the morning enjoy pleasant, cool hours and usually return with the warm late-afternoon sun.

For both leisure and ambitious riders the route offers more than just kilometers: it shifts interest toward Mallorca's quiet coves, provides places to stop in villages and reveals Mallorca's rural side. Visitors discover workshops, small producers and traditional dishes – sobrasada, pa amb oli and fresh pastries are everywhere an invitation to pause.

Those who don't want to take risks should use navigation data or a GPX file; signage is present but seldom perfect. And: respect for land and people pays off – slower overtakes, no litter at the roadside and consideration for agricultural traffic are part of good riding etiquette.

Conclusion: The circular tour from Cala Millor is a good compromise between sporting challenge and relaxed enjoyment of the landscape. It relieves the coastal resorts, brings visitors to small communities and can be lengthened or shortened depending on training goals. For the start of the season it is a reliable recommendation – with a view of Artà's plaça and a slice of everyday Mallorcan life along the way.