Autumn is approaching, and some of you may be wondering where to head for a training camp before saved snow is spread on the tracks in the Alps or the north, or before artificial snowmaking begins in favorable temperatures. When the thermometer drops below 10 degrees and fallen leaves start slipping under your roller skis, there are still several destinations you can head to.

One of them, however, has long been tried and tested. Surely, you’ve already heard about it. It can be said that the Spanish island of Mallorca has provided an excellent haven for road cyclists for decades – and a few years ago, long-distance cross-country skiers discovered it too.

Among the pioneers of training in the warmth during the peak of preparations were the Aukland brothers, who chose Mallorca. According to Bezky.net, other teams, including national squads, soon followed them.

The island offers extensive accommodation options with good food – from luxury hotels to more spartan lodgings to apartments – practically across the whole island. The most popular area is around the capital, Palma de Mallorca, where the airport is also located.

Also Read: Top 5 destinations for summer training camps

Perfect timing

For skiers, the best time to arrive and train there is late September to October. The sea remains warm enough for swimming, refreshing dips, and recovery after training, and the weather is typically stable.

Temperatures average around 25°C, sometimes higher – ideal for long roller ski sessions. From mid-October, a few hours of rain showers may occur, but with temperatures around 20°C, they’re far more pleasant than in the chilly home environment.

Choosing your destination

Skiers and holidaymakers often stay in Arenal, near Palma, which provides easy access to the western and central parts of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains.

Another option is to take a bus or rental car from the airport to the north side of the island, for example, to the historic town of Alcúdia, giving you access to the mountains from the opposite direction.

Of course, you don’t have to roller ski only in the dramatic local mountains. The central and eastern parts of the island also offer enjoyable flat routes.

Steep descents

If you travel with a team or family, it’s recommended to have a driver who can bring you down from the mountain tops. Some descents are manageable for experienced skiers, but safety is always the top priority.

A few years ago, roller skiing was banned on the island after a Norwegian skier was seriously injured in one of the descents. Today, local police tolerate it, but they are not fond of seeing skiers in sharp downhill curves.

Where to go?

• Sa Calobra – Considered a cycling icon of Mallorca. A 10.1km climb with 654 meters of elevation gain and an average gradient of 6.5%. The road features 26 hairpin turns winding along the cliffs, built without tunnels – a true engineering marvel.
• Puig Major – The longest climb on Mallorca, taking you to the island’s highest “road point.” The ascent from Sóller is 14.3km long with 864 meters of elevation gain and an average gradient of 6.1%. It offers stunning views and passes two mountain lakes, Cúber and Gorg Blau.
• Cap de Formentor – A peninsula in the north with an iconic lighthouse and breathtaking views of rocky cliffs. One of the most photogenic spots on the island is the small but beautiful Playa de Formentor beach, lined with pine trees.
• Lluc – A flatter route just below the mountains, practically level between Alcúdia and Inca along vineyards, then continuing with a climb from Selva up to Lluc.

Also Read: Anders Aukland releases a book and shares decades of experience

Alternatives

If you want variety, you can easily rent a road bike, go on a mountain hike, or try trail running. For example, you can explore part of the long-distance trail crossing Mallorca – the GR 221.

You’ll want to return

Mallorca is truly a stunning island, rugged and worth exploring. It offers countless beautiful places – whether you’re after spectacular beaches, picturesque mountain villages, or dramatic nature. You’ll surely fall in love with it and want to come back.

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