If there's one ride that belongs on every cyclist's Mallorca bucket list, it's Cap de Formentor. This dramatic peninsula at the island's northeastern tip delivers everything you come to Mallorca for: challenging climbs, jaw-dropping coastal views, and that unmistakable Mediterranean magic.
The Journey Begins: Climbing to Coll de Sa Creueta
Your adventure starts in Port de Pollença, where the climb up Coll de Sa Creueta starts immediately. No gentle warm-up here. The first 3.3 kilometers wind through a series of hairpin turns, climbing nearly 230 meters at gradients of 7–8%.
As you climb, views over Port de Pollença and the bay open up behind you. At the top, you'll reach the famous Mirador de Sa Creueta (also called Es Colomer viewpoint). This is your first major photo stop, with towering limestone rocks plunging into impossibly blue waters. It's popular with cyclists and tourists alike, and worth a few minutes to soak it in.
The Hidden Gem: Torre d'Albercutx Detour
Here's a tip many cyclists miss: opposite the Mirador car park, a slightly hidden turn leads to Torre d'Albercutx, a 16th-century watchtower standing 380 meters above sea level. This 2.5-kilometer detour rewards you with an even better viewpoint.
The climb averages 6% with kicks up to 9%, winding through hairpins along the cliff edge. The road surface is rough with potholes, so stay alert. As you climb, panoramic views over Pollença Bay and the Tramuntana mountains open up before you. On clear days, you can even spot Menorca on the horizon.
Take care on the descent. The narrow road and poor surface require focus. But trust me, you won't regret this detour.
Riding the Cap de Formentor Lighthouse climb
Back on the main road, you'll descend from the viewpoint and enter the middle section through pine forest and rocky terrain. As you approach the tunnel, the road hugs the coastline with dramatic cliffs and Mediterranean blues filling your view. The tunnel itself is a 300-meter passage cutting straight through the mountain. It's lit now, but carrying lights is still a good idea.
After the tunnel, the road takes on a rolling character. Short, punchy climbs mix with brief descents. The landscape shifts between forest and exposed rocky sections, each turn revealing another postcard view.
The final approach to the lighthouse features stunning switchbacks with several steep pitches. Your legs will burn, but the anticipation keeps you pushing.
The Lighthouse
Rounding the final corner, the Formentor lighthouse comes into view, perched on the cliff edge. The road descends briefly before one last kick up to the parking area. Watch out for cars waiting to park, iIt can get chaotic.
You've made it. Take your time. The lighthouse cafeteria offers coffee, cold drinks, and snacks with what might be the best terrace view in Mallorca. Prices match the tourist location, but you've earned it.
The lighthouse dates back to 1863 and marks Mallorca's northernmost point. The surrounding cliffs drop 200 meters to the crashing waves below. Wild, remote, and absolutely stunning.
Practical Tips
Cap de Formentor's popularity comes with a catch: traffic. The narrow road gets busy, especially in summer. Start early. Aim to leave Port de Pollença by 7 AM. You'll enjoy cooler temperatures, emptier roads, and the best light for photography. The morning sun illuminates the eastern cliffs beautifully, and you'll often have the viewpoints to yourself.
Keep an eye out for the professional photographers stationed along the return journey. They set up at strategic points to capture you riding with the lighthouse in the background. It's a Mallorca cycling tradition, and the photos make a nice souvenir to make your friends back home jealous.
If you're going early or late, bring enough water. There's no refill option if the lighthouse cafeteria is closed (open from 10am to 4pm).
2026 Traffic Restrictions
Good news for cyclists: Mallorca's authorities have implemented seasonal traffic restrictions that make the road slightly less busy.. From May 15 to October 15 (10 AM to 10 PM), private vehicles are banned from the road beyond Formentor Beach.
Cyclists and hikers get priority access during peak hours. You can ride with significantly less traffic, enjoying those coastal panoramas without cars squeezing past.
Routes That Feature Cap de Formentor
Cap de Formentor sits at Mallorca's far northeastern tip, so you'll need to commit to getting there. But that's exactly what makes it such a rewarding highlight to build a route around.
Based in Port de Pollença? You're in the ideal spot. The climb starts right from town, making it easy to add Formentor to a ride before heading elsewhere.
Starting from Port d'Alcúdia? We've mapped out a Cap de Formentor loop from Alcúdia that takes you along the bay, up to the lighthouse, and back through the countryside.
Want a bigger day? Combine Formentor with another Mallorcan classic on the Coll de Femenia loop. You can either start or finish with the Formentor section.
Time to Plan Your Ride
Cap de Formentor isn't just another climb. It's the ride that defines Mallorca cycling. The combination of challenging gradients, Mediterranean scenery, and that lighthouse finale creates something truly special.
Whether you're training for a big event or ticking off a bucket-list ride, Formentor delivers. Book your trip, set your alarm early, and prepare for one of the most memorable rides of your cycling life.
Mallorca cycling Guide
Our complete Mallorca guide covers the best routes, bike rentals, café stops, and where to stay.
