Santuari de Cura from Palma

This is our proposal for a circular cycling route connecting Palma with the iconic summit of Santuari de Cura on the Puig de Randa. While multiple options exist for arrival and return, this alternative is designed to balance the effort with a faster and more enjoyable return journey.

Starting Point and Exiting Palma

To begin the cycling stage, we suggest leaving Palma by following Calle Aragón until the Hostalots estate. From there, we access the service road of the Manacor highway (Ma-15). Although there are other ways to exit the capital, this option minimizes urban traffic and facilitates the connection with the island's secondary roads.

The Unexpected Challenge: Xorrigo Ascent

Continuing along the service road towards Algaida, we encounter one of the key attractions of this route: the Xorrigo ascent. This segment is the perfect spot for a group sprint (pique with the grupeta) or an intense power training session. It's an uphill stretch featuring a tough, steep ramp of about 100 meters, concluding with rolling hills (sube y baja) until a final roundabout that leads us to Algaida.

The Climb to Cura from Randa

After Xorrigo and passing through Algaida, we look for the town of Randa via the road coming from Llucmajor. ATTENTION: Of the two access ramps to Randa, we recommend the second intersection, which is uphill but considerably more manageable than the first.

The Cura ascent starts strong, with initial ramps at 7%-8% and fun hairpin bends. The gradient gradually softens as we gain altitude, and halfway up, the bends already offer us a spectacular panoramic view of Palma Bay.

Just when you feel breathless, a brief 500-meter rest section provides vital relief before tackling the final part of the climb, which culminates at the telephone antennas. Once past these, a slight descent leads us to the Sanctuary.

Reward: Catch your breath, refuel, and revel in the spectacular 360-degree views that stretch as far as the eye can see across the island.

Fast and Fun Return

With the climb goal achieved, the proposed return route focuses on a fun ride predominantly featuring descents. From Cura, we head towards Montuïri, reconnecting with Algaida via the old Porreres road: a traffic-free inland road that ensures a relaxed ride. From Algaida, we seek Santa Eugènia and Santa Maria del Camí to return directly to Palma.

Bike-Friendly Refuelling Options

This inland route offers multiple options to recharge:

• Randa: The bar in the town square is a frequent stopping point for cyclists, with safe and comfortable space to keep an eye on your bike.

• Algaida: The local petrol station.

• Santa Maria del Camí: Near the end of the route, the bars in Santa Maria are known for being bike-friendly.

• Montuïri (Alternative): If you extend to Montuïri, you can visit the sports center bar or the more traditional Bar S'Hostal.

Other Descent Alternatives

If you are looking for a different and faster return:

• Speed Option: From Randa, head towards Llucmajor and then towards S'Aranjassa. An eternal 10 km straight with a downward slope awaits you. CAUTION: You can gain a lot of speed on this road, but cars are also fast!

• Beach Option: Return towards Llucmajor and reach Playa de Palma from there.