How big are the groups?
Our group sizes typically range from 6 to 12 riders, each with two guides in radio contact with each other and the support vehicle if we are using it. Unless you are part of a group booking, there is no way to predict the size of the group(s) each day. Some weeks are very popular and we can have 40-50 riders but you may find you are on your own for a quiet week. There are options to have 1-2-1 guiding, so you won’t be with a group. This may be useful for a variety of reasons.
How long are the rides each day?
The routes we cycle typically vary from 50km to 130km. However, this is not fixed, we customise each days routes to be suitable for those out riding. If someone wants a 20km route, then we can provide that. If someone wants a 180km route or Mountains all day, then we can provide that!
What speed are the rides each day?
The simple answer to this is whatever speed you want it to be! In the same way that we vary the distances to suit, we ride at a pace to suit the individual or groups. On a busy day, we will split into 3 or 4 groups, so there will be a group going slowly, a group going quickly and the others somewhere in between. On average, for an undulating route, the slower pace will be 22/24kph, the fastest 30/32kph.
How many days will we cycle on the holiday?
As an example, if you booked a 7 day holiday, then normally one of those days will be a travel day and we generally recommend one day off or a very easy day during each 6 days, so we factor in an average 5 days guided riding for every 7 days. If you arrive on a Saturday, we would plan guided days of Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Many factors can influence this such as the weather, riders fitness levels or requirements from their holiday. We can customise every booking, so you can ask for more or less guided days during your holiday.
Will there be any stops during the rides?
Always and sometimes more than once! The rides are designed to be enjoyable (as much as a bike ride can be!) and typically we cycle for 90 mins and then have a coffee/cake stop. If we pass any really scenic spots, then we will stop for photos. Most routes are 3 to 4 hours of cycling time plus stop time. If there is a special request to not stop, such as for a hard training day ride, then we can also manage this.
Can I ride some of the ‘iconic’ routes?
If your fitness allows it, then absolutely! We always aim to please and part of that process is to ask if there are any particular routes or places that you want to cover, such as Sa Calobra, Cap Formentor (The Lighthouse), Orient, Andratx to Port via Ma-10. If you want to tick off a lot of the challenging ones, then you need to consider booking for 10 to 14 days, as 7 days might not be enough.
Can you provide a tough or structured week of training?
If you want a tough week for preparation for racing, a special sportive or just to do it, then yes we can! A week like this can be scheduled in for any week of the year. We sometimes advertise certain weeks to be a ‘Training Camp’ instead of our normal Holiday Tour style weeks.
What support is offered?
In addition to guiding you each day, our guides are also on hand to help you with tips on things like position, gear selection, nutrition, descending techniques, etc. They will also provide encouragement on the more challenging sections. If the group size is large enough or it has been included as part of a group package, then there will be a support vehicle following. Our support vehicle carries a first aid kit, essential spares and tools, water, energy snacks and drinks as well as your spare items of clothing.
Are transfers included?
Our Silver, Gold & Platinum packages include return transfers from Palma airport to the hotel in Puerto Pollensa. The journey time between the airport and hotel is approximately 50 minutes. Bronze packages do not include any transfers as standard. If you decide to arrive or depart between 22:00 and 06:00, there may be a small supplemental charge.
Can I bring a non cycling partner/friend?
Of course, non-cycling partners and friends are most welcome. Mallorca is a beautiful and relaxing place with a large selection of other activities available.
Should I hire or bring my own bike?
Many of our clients bring their own bikes. It is also possible to hire good quality road bikes locally to save the hassle and worry of transporting your own bike. If you decide to hire a bike we recommend that you book well in advance to avoid disappointment. For April and May, very early reservation is essential! The companies below all allow your bike to be collected the evening before, so you will be ready to ride first thing on your first day.
Can you arrange my bike rental for me?
For Bronze and Silver packages, we don’t normally arrange bike rentals as we prefer individuals to select what they want. There is a large choice here locally. If you would like us to arrange your bike rental through one of our preferred suppliers, then this can be done subject to a 25 Euro admin fee, otherwise please book your bike as soon as possible. Some months are very busy and bikes are reserved 1 year ahead, especially April and May. For some suppliers, we can obtain a discount from their advertised prices, so it may work out as a better deal for you. Where possible we try to arrange for your rental bike to be delivered or ready for you at the Hotel on arrival.
The best place for being setup more exactly to your measurements (of your own bike setup) would be with Pro cycle Hire and they have many brands such as Colnago and Massi. www.procyclehire.com
If you want a Pinarello, we can book those for you and with some discount. Choose which one from their website and we can do the booking. http://www.pinarelloexperience.com
Mallorca Bike Hire are very friendly and provide a delivery service locally. They have some super Cannondales and also stock e-Bikes. www.mallorcabikehire.com
If you would like a Wilier or Ridley, then Sport Bequi in Alcudia stock these and also have a delivery service. http://www.sportbequi.com/in/
Other places:
- • Rent March – great for e-Bikes and Hybrids. http://www.rentmarch.com/en/
- • Bike Experience
How fit do I need to be?
For Mallorca, you don’t need a high level of fitness before you come on the tour because we have groups to cater for a range of abilities but some of the more challenging routes will require a reasonable level of cycling fitness. If you have any concerns please contact us to discuss further. For Gran Canaria trips, you do need to be able to climb Mountains, most days, or use an e-bike!
What type of bike do I need?
You’ll need a road bike in good working order. Cycling shoes and clipless pedals are strongly recommended. Our own bike mechanics or any of the local bike shops will be able to help you in the event of a mechanical problem.
What is the weather like and what cycling clothes should I bring?
Although Mallorca enjoys a Mediterranean climate, you should come prepared for the occasional wet day and it can be considerably cooler in the mountains. Riders on all tours are advised to bring arm and leg warmers, gloves, a gilet and rain jacket. Equally, the sun can be quite strong even in March so sun block is recommended.
What happens after the rides or during the evening?
We don’t have a fixed itinerary of activities but most rides end at either the Hotel or Pro Cycle Hire café. Then there is a chance to chat while enjoying a post ride drink. During a busy week, we will normally organise an evening meal at a restaurant for one of the evenings and have a bit of fun with ‘silly’ prizes. There are great bars to experience and normally some of the team will organise visiting some of these after the evening dinner. Between May and Oct, Palms Bar (near the Pollensa Park Hotel) has tribute bands on 6 nights of the week and these are worth a visit.
What travel insurance do I need?
Travel insurance is essential as is a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for UK and European residents. The EHIC can be applied for online and takes 7-10 days to arrive after application.
There are numerous insurance companies who provide cover that includes a variety of sports and activities.
I/We have own accommodation – Can I/we just join daily rides or have my own guide?
If you have your own accommodation, we also provide ride only services. You can join our daily rides or we can come to you. We offer 1-2-1 guiding if you don’t want to ride with a group or want your own guide.
Where do we stay?
We are primarily located in Port Pollensa, so this is where we focus on places to stay. The season for most Hotels is March to October and outside of these dates, we use limited Hotels and more often the Self-Catering options. For special requests we can arrange for you to use Villas located close by. For custom point-to-point holidays, we use Boutique style Hotels.
Hotel Choices in Port Pollensa
The ‘cycling’ favourite is the Pollensa Park. This is where the majority of our clients stay and where you will be able to be part of a group off the bike as well as on it. Secure bike rooms and a bike cleaning area. We also have a pdf covering more accommodation options.
Hotel Pollensa Park https://www.cabot-hotels.com/gallery/ https://www.cabot-hotels.com/spa-hotel-puerto-pollensa/ | 100m from the beach. Local cyclists’ bars. Pro Cycle Hire & Café opposite. Walk along seafront to town. Spa facilities. Olympic size pool. Secure bike storage with tools. |
Cabot Hobby Club Apartments | All rooms are apartments, all with a kitchen area. On the seafront. Beach. Jacuzzi options. Bikes in rooms. No Breakfasts, self catering only. |