A road cyclist’s perspective on two of Spain’s most iconic cycling destinations
If you’re a road cyclist based in Europe, chances are you’ve either been to Mallorca or it’s already on your radar. But have you ever considered Lanzarote? This volcanic gem in the Canary Islands is becoming an increasingly popular choice for riders seeking something different. So when it comes to your next cycling holiday in Spain — Lanzarote vs Mallorca — which should you choose?
Let’s break it down.
Mallorca:
Best visited in spring or autumn. Summers can be hot and crowded, while winters are cooler but rideable.
Lanzarote:
Year-round cycling paradise. Thanks to its subtropical climate, Lanzarote offers consistent temperatures (18–25°C / 64–77°F) and minimal rainfall all year. That makes winter training a dream.
✅ Winner for winter rides: Lanzarote.
Mallorca:
Some roads are smooth and scenic — especially around Sóller and the Tramuntana Mountains — but heavy tourist traffic can be an issue in peak seasons.
Lanzarote:
Incredibly smooth asphalt, low traffic, and a strong culture of respect toward cyclists. Many roads are signed with cycling warnings and distances, showing that bike tourism is valued here.
✅ Winner for road surface and safety: Lanzarote.
Mallorca:
Home to long, beautiful climbs like Sa Calobra and Puig Major. Great for those who love elevation and switchbacks.
Lanzarote:
More rolling terrain and shorter, punchier climbs. It’s windier, which adds a unique challenge. The volcanic landscape feels like riding on another planet.
✅ Winner for elevation: Mallorca. Winner for variety and wind-training: Lanzarote.
Mallorca:
Mediterranean beauty at its best — olive groves, mountain vistas, and charming villages.
Lanzarote:
Otherworldly. Think lava fields, black sand, whitewashed villages, ocean views, and stark volcanic peaks. It’s wild, raw, and completely unique.
✅ Winner for uniqueness and photography: Lanzarote.
Mallorca:
Busy with cyclists from all over Europe, especially during spring training camps. Plenty of services, but it can feel crowded.
Lanzarote:
More laid-back and less saturated with group tours. You’ll share the roads with triathletes, solo riders and locals — not thousands of club cyclists.
✅ Winner for peaceful rides: Lanzarote.
Mallorca:
Well-developed cycling infrastructure with tons of rental shops, cafes, and support vehicles.
Lanzarote:
Smaller scale, but high-quality service. At Papagayo Bike, we rent out premium road bikes, e-bikes, and MTBs — ideal for discovering every corner of the island in comfort and style.
✅ Winner for boutique service and relaxed experience: Lanzarote.
Both Mallorca and Lanzarote are incredible destinations for a cycling holiday in Spain. But if you’re looking for a more peaceful, year-round, and unique riding experience, Lanzarote is the winner.
With smoother roads, dramatic landscapes, and fewer crowds — it’s time to consider this volcanic island your next cycling adventure.
???? Plan your ride with us at www.papagayobike.com and discover why more and more riders are choosing Lanzarote over Mallorca.
If you’re a road cyclist based in Europe, chances are you’ve either been to Mallorca or it’s already on your radar. But have you ever considered Lanzarote? This volcanic gem in the Canary Islands is becoming an increasingly popular choice for riders seeking something different. So when it comes to your next cycling holiday in Spain — Lanzarote vs Mallorca — which should you choose?
Let’s break it down.
???? Climate & Weather
Mallorca:Best visited in spring or autumn. Summers can be hot and crowded, while winters are cooler but rideable.
Lanzarote:
Year-round cycling paradise. Thanks to its subtropical climate, Lanzarote offers consistent temperatures (18–25°C / 64–77°F) and minimal rainfall all year. That makes winter training a dream.
✅ Winner for winter rides: Lanzarote.
????♂️ Road Quality & Traffic
Mallorca:Some roads are smooth and scenic — especially around Sóller and the Tramuntana Mountains — but heavy tourist traffic can be an issue in peak seasons.
Lanzarote:
Incredibly smooth asphalt, low traffic, and a strong culture of respect toward cyclists. Many roads are signed with cycling warnings and distances, showing that bike tourism is valued here.
✅ Winner for road surface and safety: Lanzarote.
⛰ Climbing & Terrain
Mallorca:Home to long, beautiful climbs like Sa Calobra and Puig Major. Great for those who love elevation and switchbacks.
Lanzarote:
More rolling terrain and shorter, punchier climbs. It’s windier, which adds a unique challenge. The volcanic landscape feels like riding on another planet.
✅ Winner for elevation: Mallorca. Winner for variety and wind-training: Lanzarote.
???? Scenery & Experience
Mallorca:Mediterranean beauty at its best — olive groves, mountain vistas, and charming villages.
Lanzarote:
Otherworldly. Think lava fields, black sand, whitewashed villages, ocean views, and stark volcanic peaks. It’s wild, raw, and completely unique.
✅ Winner for uniqueness and photography: Lanzarote.
???? Crowds & Atmosphere
Mallorca:Busy with cyclists from all over Europe, especially during spring training camps. Plenty of services, but it can feel crowded.
Lanzarote:
More laid-back and less saturated with group tours. You’ll share the roads with triathletes, solo riders and locals — not thousands of club cyclists.
✅ Winner for peaceful rides: Lanzarote.
???? Bike Hire & Services
Mallorca:Well-developed cycling infrastructure with tons of rental shops, cafes, and support vehicles.
Lanzarote:
Smaller scale, but high-quality service. At Papagayo Bike, we rent out premium road bikes, e-bikes, and MTBs — ideal for discovering every corner of the island in comfort and style.
✅ Winner for boutique service and relaxed experience: Lanzarote.
???? The Verdict
Both Mallorca and Lanzarote are incredible destinations for a cycling holiday in Spain. But if you’re looking for a more peaceful, year-round, and unique riding experience, Lanzarote is the winner.With smoother roads, dramatic landscapes, and fewer crowds — it’s time to consider this volcanic island your next cycling adventure.
???? Plan your ride with us at www.papagayobike.com and discover why more and more riders are choosing Lanzarote over Mallorca.
Why Lanzarote Might Be the Safest Place to Ride Your Bike in Europe
