Large trail race 'Mallorca by UTMB' causes road closures – what drivers should know

Major running event shuts down parts of the Tramuntana

This weekend: stay alert and keep your eyes on the road. The trail-running competition "Mallorca by UTMB" brings about 2,400 runners from around the world to the Serra de Tramuntana. Four distances will be run; some starts begin in the middle of the night, others early in the morning. That has consequences for drivers, locals and anyone who had planned a relaxed trip to the weekend market.

When will the roads be closed?

Start: Tonight, from 00:00.
End: Expected tomorrow around 18:30, though times may be earlier or later depending on the section.
The closures are not continuous — there are stretches with short full closures and places with one-way traffic controls.

Affected locations

The mountain villages and connecting routes are particularly affected: Sóller and Port de Sóller, Valldemossa, Bunyola, Alaró, Lluc as well as areas near Inca and access roads to Palma. Anyone driving along the Ma-10 should expect slowdowns — especially where the route winds through tight switchbacks. And yes: the popular viewpoints will be harder to reach at times.

Tips for drivers and commuters

Some practical advice so your day doesn't end up stuck in traffic:

• Build in extra time: leaving early helps, otherwise you may have to wait or take detours.
• Follow signage and instructions from police officers — it's best to obey the on-site directions.
• Delivery services and tradespeople should consider rescheduling appointments or choosing alternative routes.
• Use public transport: buses between Palma and the villages are often less affected than individual car traffic.
• Cyclists: be considerate and make yourselves visible. At some points the shoulder is narrow.

Why it's still worth it

Yes, it will be congested. But once you look at the air above the Tramuntana, you understand why runners come from all over: moonlit passes, olive-covered slopes, that smell of pine and citrus in the morning. If you don't need to travel, it's a good day to relax and cheer on the runners — from a distance, of course.

More information on exact closure times and maps can be found in the official traffic notices and on the event website. A quick search for the closure map on X/Twitter usually shows the latest updates. And if you have an urgent appointment — call ahead or postpone. Better than circling for hours.

Drive safely and please follow the on-site instructions — the helpers are volunteers doing their best to keep things running smoothly.