Among cyclists in Europe, two destinations constantly appear in conversations about training camps and cycling holidays.
Mallorca and Girona.
Both offer incredible riding, great cycling culture, and plenty of bike-friendly accommodation. But they deliver slightly different experiences.
Mallorca offers epic climbs and variety. Girona offers quiet roads and a strong cycling culture.
Why Mallorca and Girona Are Cycling Hotspots
Both destinations have become global hubs for cycling tourism.
Mallorca attracts thousands of cyclists every year thanks to its famous climbs and excellent road infrastructure.
Girona, located in Catalonia near the Pyrenees, has become popular among professional cyclists and serious amateurs due to its quiet roads and diverse terrain.
Browse all cycling hotels across both destinations.
Terrain and Riding Style
Cycling in Mallorca
Mallorca offers a wide variety of riding terrain within a relatively compact island.
You will find:
- Legendary climbs such as Sa Calobra
- Coastal routes with spectacular views
- Rolling countryside roads
- Long endurance loops
This makes the island ideal for riders who enjoy mixing climbing with scenic rides.
Sa Calobra alone is on many cyclists' bucket lists.
Cycling in Girona
Girona offers a different experience.
Instead of one famous climb, you get a huge network of quiet roads and varied terrain.
Cyclists can enjoy:
- Rolling countryside routes
- Long endurance rides
- Access to Pyrenees climbs
- Excellent gravel riding
Girona's quieter roads are one reason many professional cyclists choose to live there. See cycling hotels in Girona.
Cycling Culture
Mallorca
Mallorca has been a cycling tourism hub for decades.
The island offers:
- Hundreds of cycling-friendly hotels
- Bike rental shops everywhere
- Organised training camps
- Cycling cafes and services
The infrastructure for cyclists is extremely mature.
Girona
Girona's cycling culture feels slightly different.
It is strongly influenced by professional cycling and the international cycling community living there.
You will find:
- Cycling cafes
- Professional training groups
- Local cycling clubs
- Quiet training routes
Girona often feels like a cyclist's small-town community.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Mallorca
Mallorca enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate.
Best cycling months:
- February to May
- September to November
Spring is especially popular for training camps.
Girona
Girona has slightly more seasonal weather.
Best months:
- March to June
- September to October
Summer can become quite warm for long rides. See all sports hotels in Spain.
Accommodation Options
Mallorca offers a huge number of hotels designed specifically for cyclists.
You will find:
- Large cycling resorts in Mallorca
- Luxury sports hotels
- Multi-sport resorts
- Boutique cycling hotels
Girona offers smaller, more boutique-style accommodation, often focused on performance athletes. See cycling hotels in Girona.
Mallorca has scale and variety. Girona has intimacy and culture.
Which Destination Is Better for You?
Choose Mallorca if you want:
- Famous climbs
- Large cycling resorts
- Many hotel choices
- Variety of routes in a small area
Choose Girona if you want:
- Quiet roads
- Authentic cycling culture
- Access to Pyrenees climbs
- Gravel riding options
Both destinations are excellent. The right choice depends on your riding style.
Final Thoughts
Mallorca and Girona are two of Europe's best cycling destinations.
Mallorca offers iconic climbs and huge cycling infrastructure.
Girona offers quieter roads and a strong cycling community.
Either way, you will find world-class riding.
The real winner is the cyclist who gets to ride both.