Coasts and goats
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Distance 160 km
Altitude 2849 m
Our pace 23 km/h
Time on bike 6 h 57 min -
Belgian classics rider that enjoys warmer temperatures and countless coffee stops in picturesque scenery.
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Sometimes, when we train, we simply have to go out to meet the man with the hammer. [Unless we gathered enough coffee stops on the way].
Inspired by Laurent Fignon
Start your journey in Alaro and warm up for your first climb on the Coll de Soller, which immediately greets you with a series of exhilarating hairpins. The road may be rugged under your tyres, but the empty roads and athletic challenge make up for it. As you climb this iconic pass, the anticipation of Soller builds.
When you reach the town of Soller, the temptation for a short break grows. Resist the temptation for a moment, the real treat lies ahead. As you head towards Deià, a picturesque coastal gem, the second ascent may feel too soon. But know this: once you get there, the fresh pastries, exceptional coffees and isotonic drinks await you.
Deià's charm is hard to miss, and the small shops welcomes every cyclist to refuel and watch. Watch the scene unfold - a splendid tableau of riders in perfectly matching outfits on their sleek Dogmas, mixed with curious beach-goers on gravel bikes, eager to discover why Mallorca is great for cycling. It's an exquisite mix.
If you want to get away from the crowds, the next section is a coastal route that winds along the coastline. Not overly challenging, but always rolling, you'll pass through a tapestry of charming towns and ever-changing coastal views, each more captivating than the last.
As you descend towards the rich and famous Port Andratx, the detour proves justified. The port provides an idyllic setting for another well-earned coffee and perhaps a hearty lunch. Panoramic views of the surrounding hills are the perfect reward for your efforts.
Heading inland, the route changes to quieter roads that wind past charming farms, indifferent goats and the various animals of the countryside, creating an environment where time seems to stand still. At Galilea, Puigpunyent and Esporles, you'll find plenty of opportunities to stop and stretch your legs.
The final stretch of flat farm tracks will take you back to your starting point, enriched by the experiences of the day. If you get hungry, Cycling Planet has an extensive menu, with each dish playfully named after a famous cyclist. Coffee is served in the rainbow colours of the World Championships and you can take a moment to soak up the atmosphere and perhaps feel like a champion yourself after a long day in the saddle.
You: How many coffee stops can you have? We: Yes!
Cyclist: Pippo, Jojo, Tilman, Björn
Photographer: Pippo, Tilman, Björn