Forget Mallorca: 6 Incredible Cycling Destinations You Need to Ride Next

Now this comes with a slight bias because we lived in Mallorca for more than a year but here we go. Mallorca has become almost a rite of passage for cyclists. Smooth roads, year-round sun, and iconic climbs like Sa Calobra have made it the go-to destination for amateurs and everyone in between. Suprisingly the pros have stopped going now. But the truth is, the island’s popularity is also its limitation. The roads are busy with group rides, the cafés are filled with riders in matching kit, and while the scenery is undeniably stunning, there’s a sense of déjà vu once you’ve been. For new cyclists, Mallorca might seem like the only option. In reality, it’s far from it. Europe (and beyond) is filled with other regions offering climbs, landscapes, and cultural experiences that rival Mallorca and in many cases, feel fresher, less crowded, and more rewarding.

Here are six destinations every cyclist, especially beginner cyclists should consider when looking beyond Mallorca.

Haute-Pyrénées, France

When it comes to pure cycling history, few places can match the Hautes-Pyrénées. This is Tour de France country, home to legends like the Col du Tourmalet, Hautacam, and Col d’Aspin. What makes this region stand out is the sense of drama: towering peaks, narrow valley roads, and the raw, unfiltered atmosphere of the high mountains.

The climbs here aren’t just physically demanding they carry a weight of history. You’re not just riding a road, you’re riding the same switchbacks where Pantani, Armstrong, and Pogacar tested themselves. And yet, despite that prestige, the Hautes-Pyrénées doesn’t feel like a tourist machine in the way Mallorca can. Towns like Argelès-Gazost or Bagnères-de-Bigorre remain authentically French, with simple boulangeries serving coffee and pastries before you roll out for a day of iconic ascents.

Why it works for cyclists:

• Legendary Tour de France climbs within short riding distance.
• Authentic French mountain culture.
• Roads that feel quieter and more rugged than Mallorca.

Sierra Nevada, Spain

Spain isn’t just Mallorca. Head inland to Granada, and you’ll find one of Europe’s most challenging cycling playgrounds: the Sierra Nevada. This region offers long, brutal ascents that climb to dizzying altitudes. The road to Pico Veleta, for example, rises above 3,300 meters, making it one of the highest paved roads in Europe.

What’s unique about Sierra Nevada is the combination of beauty and toughness. The climbs are relentless, with gradients that bite early and rarely let up. Yet at the same time, you’re surrounded by vast landscapes, gorges, and ridges that make every effort worthwhile. And because this is also a ski destination, the infrastructure is in place for year-round sport, from high-quality accommodation to easy access to towns like Granada.

Compared to Mallorca, Sierra Nevada feels raw. There are fewer groups, less traffic, and far more moments of complete silence as you grind your way up endless switchbacks. For cyclists who want to test themselves in a setting that feels both beautiful and unforgiving, this is a must.

Why it works for cyclists:

• Brutally hard climbs with high-altitude training benefits.
• Stunning landscapes mixing Mediterranean foothills with alpine peaks.
• Less tourist-heavy, with a more authentic Spanish vibe.

Nice, France

Nice has quietly become one of Europe’s premier cycling hubs, not least because so many professionals now base themselves here. The city sits on the edge of the Mediterranean, meaning you can combine coastal rides with immediate access to mountain roads inland. Climbs like Col d’Èze, Col de la Madone, and Col de Turini are right on your doorstep, offering everything from one-hour efforts to full-day epics.

What makes Nice stand out is the diversity. One day you’re rolling along the French Riviera with the sea glittering beside you, the next you’re winding into the foothills of the Alps, surrounded by rugged rock formations and pine forests. The roads are immaculate, the weather is consistently good, and post-ride you’re in one of France’s most vibrant cities.

For newer cyclists, Nice is also a revelation because the gradients are generally steady, the roads wide and well-kept, and the atmosphere buzzing with other ridersbut not oversaturated like Mallorca.

Why it works for cyclists:

• Mix of Mediterranean coastline and Alpine climbs.
• Professional cycling hub with immaculate roads.
• Vibrant city life for rest days and recovery.

Lake Bled & the Julian Alps, Slovenia

Slovenia has become a rising star in cycling, thanks in part to riders like Tadej Pogačar and Primož Roglič. But beyond the champions, the country itself is a gem, especially around Lake Bled and the Julian Alps.

This region combines postcard scenery with serious riding. The climbs are steep, the descents twisting and technical, and the backdrop emerald lakes, jagged peaks, and quaint alpine villages is unlike anywhere else in Europe. Unlike Mallorca, where the routes can feel predictable, Slovenia keeps you guessing: narrow roads through dense forests, quiet mountain passes, and sudden clearings with views that stop you in your tracks.

Cycling here is still relatively under the radar, meaning fewer crowds, better value, and the sense of discovering something unique. For riders who want both challenge and beauty, Slovenia might be one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.

Why it works for cyclists:

• Iconic climbs in a less-explored region.
• Lake Bled as a base with stunning scenery.
• Steeper gradients offering serious training.

Portugal: North of Lisbon

Portugal doesn’t always appear on cycling destination lists, but it should. Just north of Lisbon, the terrain changes from rolling coastal roads to serious inland climbs, offering variety that suits all levels. The roads are generally quiet, the drivers courteous, and the cost of living significantly cheaper than Mallorca.

The landscapes here are unique: vineyards, medieval castles perched on hillsides, and sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Unlike Mallorca’s tourist-heavy vibe, the Portuguese countryside feels untouched, almost old-world. You’ll find cobbled climbs in small towns, smooth tarmac through eucalyptus forests, and climbs that don’t yet have the fame of Sa Calobra but deliver equal satisfaction.

Why it works for cyclists:

• Varied terrain with both coastal and inland climbs.
• Quiet roads with little traffic.
• Affordable compared to Mallorca and other hot spots.

Alicante Region, Spain

Alicante has been gaining momentum as one of Spain’s best cycling bases and for good reason. The roads here are almost perfectly designed for training, with rolling terrain, punchy climbs, and the kind of dry, sunny weather that draws WorldTour teams for winter camps.

Climbs like the Coll de Rates are now legendary among pros, and the whole region feels like it was built for cycling. Smooth roads snake through orange groves, small villages offer perfect coffee stops, and the sheer variety of routes means you can ride for weeks without repeating yourself.

Compared to Mallorca, Alicante feels fresher and more spacious. The infrastructure for cycling is outstanding, but the vibe is less “training camp conveyor belt” and more flexible, welcoming, and relaxed. For riders looking for an accessible alternative that still offers world-class roads, Alicante is a winner.

Why it works for cyclists:

• Winter sunshine with dry, reliable weather.
• Perfect blend of rolling terrain and longer climbs.
• Pro-team favourite, yet still authentic.

Final Thoughts

Mallorca isn’t going anywhere. It’s still a fantastic place to ride, especially for those new to cycling holidays. But like anything that becomes too popular, it risks losing its charm. The roads are crowded, the routes are well-worn, and the experience can start to feel less like an adventure and more like ticking a box.

The good news is that the alternatives are plentiful. From the history-soaked roads of the Hautes-Pyrénées to the raw beauty of Sierra Nevada, the diversity of Nice, the hidden gems of Slovenia and Portugal, and the pro-team playground of Alicante, there’s a whole world of cycling to explore.

For new cyclists planning their first trip abroad or seasoned riders craving something different the message is simple: don’t just follow the crowd. Mallorca may be the icon, but the future of your best rides might be somewhere else entirely.