5 Tips for Exploring Menorca by Bike

Menorca is the most unspoilt of the Balearic Islands and ideal for cyclists with countless car free country lanes and ancient routes ideal for the intrepid mountain biker. The island has invested in cycling infrastructure in recent years with many former bridleways becoming part of a growing network. They are one of the best ways to explore the island’s landscape, magnificent coastline and numerous charming towns and villages. Below you will find 5 tips to make the most of a cycle trip on stunning Menorca!

#1 Routes

All across the island you will find a network of single-track roads or ‘camis’ that are now being added to the cycle network of the island. Most of these ancient tracks are unpaved, so you do not need to worry about a car coming around the corner (maybe the occasional 4x4 or tractor)! But they are best suited to mountain bikes with some steep sections and unevenness. It is simple to get from one point of the island to another and a great way to discover the rural interior of the island. If you want to explore the coast, the Camis de Cavalls runs along the entire coastline. It is over 200 km long and allows you to experience the magical hidden coves and white sand beaches of Menorca.

#2 Safety

Although cycling on the island is becoming more common, it is still wise to take precautions with your safety. In Spain you are required to wear a helmet and if you have one it is always best to bring it so that you know it fits correctly. Most hire companies also offer helmets, but for an additional cost. It is also recommended that you wear a high visibility vest or at least bright clothing to ensure that you are visible to traffic. This is especially important if you plan to cycle along the main ME-1 road, which only has a 1.5m safety zone rather than a cycle path.

#3 Accommodation

The growing popularity of cycling in Menorca has prompted many hotels to offer facilities friendly to cyclists. When making your accommodation choice make sure to check if your hotel is one of them. An easy way to check is to keep an eye out for the Cycling Friendly logo. One of our favourite cycling friendly hotels is Sant Roc Boutique Hotel and Spa in Mahon. This hotel is well equipped for your cycling needs with bike parking, bike rental, bike repair, bike pumps, indoor bikes for training and staff are on hand for route advice. Sant Roc is situated in the historic centre of Mahon in two beautifully converted mansions and offers guests comfort in bright and stylish surroundings. It is the perfect location to explore the city and for numerous cycle routes!

#4 Bike Hire

If you are not able to bring your own bike, don’t worry there are plenty of bike hire options on the island. Whether you want a road bike, mountain bike or a hybrid you will definitely be able to hire it in Menorca. Prices vary from around €10 a day to €40 a week (it is often cheaper to book for longer periods and you can safely store your bike at your accommodation). The prices at the beach resorts tend to be higher but many hotels also offer bike rental themselves or offer discounts from local hire companies. The Menorcan Tourist board offers a list of companies.

#5 Races

The growth of the number of challenges and races on the island shows the popularity that cycling has gained on the island in recent years. Ciclo Menorca the island’s cycling association was set up in 2001 and now organises several different regular events. The annual Volta Cicloturista Internacional is a three day cycling event which takes in the many country roads, lighthouses and landscape across the island. There are also a weekly cycling challenge, where you can compete with other cyclists for points in different tests. The goal is a fun competition where you get to meet new people and experience the beauty of the island.