Cap Formentor Lighthouse

Only about 35 miles round trip from Alcudia, but hard. The ideal last day ride, providing roads are dry, allowing time for lunch at Tolo’s Bar, before stripping the bike and packing the case ready for a last night out.

Follow the coast road north as far as possible in Puerto Pollensa, and right at traffic island and right again on one way system. Follow road up hill and out of town towards Formentor. At top of 1st climb is viewing point to left, used by motorists; better to take turn to right up the narrow potholed road to the more exclusive viewing point. Take the steps to “pepperpot” for views over town and bay. Don’t risk climbing external metal steps of tower if wearing cycling shoes! Return avoiding potholes, and turn right towards Formentor. At bottom of descent bear left towards lighthouse at Cap Formentor. (The Hotel Formentor to the right has again reverted to exclusive “residents only” status, as in days of General Franco, to keep out tourists; but there is a snack bar nearby if you are desperate, and you can ride a bike along the private road to reach the quiet beach beyond the hotel).

Continue along valley, before climbing again. Lights or flasher would be useful for the shortish tunnel, but remove dark glasses, and pick a gap in traffic. Views over sea are worth stopping for at this point anyway. The climb continues, and caution is needed at the hairpins to avoid the hire cars, as coaches are discouraged here. The lighthouse café is useful if you can afford a coffee, but the toilet isn’t free in case you linger too long!

By now you will have realised that the return to Puerto Pollensa isn’t all downhill! If you set off early, you will have missed the tourist rush, and be able to reach Puerto Pollensa in time for lunch at Tolo’s Bar, where the real bikies hang out when they’re not on the road! Tolo sponsors the local Pollensa cycle racing club, and race sprints and stage-finishes take place outside. The bar is on the right on the coast road not far beyond the harbour in Puerto Pollensa, and is the genuine article, used by locals and visitors alike. Salud!