Mallorca isn’t just about sun-soaked beaches and vibrant nightlife – it’s a paradise for road trippers. With its winding coastal roads, rugged mountains, and charming villages, the island offers some of the most breathtaking scenic drives in Europe. And the best way to experience it all? Renting a car.
A rental car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, uncovering hidden coves, panoramic viewpoints, and off-the-beaten-track gems that most tourists never get to see. In this guide, we’ll take you through five must-drive routes that showcase the very best of Mallorca’s landscapes.
1. Pollensa to Cap Formentor: A Road to the Edge of the World
This drive is iconic, dramatic, and unmissable. Starting in the charming town of Pollensa, you’ll navigate winding roads through pine forests and dramatic cliffs, all leading to the Formentor Peninsula – one of Mallorca’s most spectacular natural wonders.
Highlights of the Drive:
🚗 Pollensa Old Town – Stroll through its cobbled streets and climb the famous 365-step Calvari Staircase for stunning views.
📍 Mirador Es Colomer – A jaw-dropping clifftop viewpoint perfect for photos.
🌊 Playa de Formentor – A pristine beach with crystal-clear waters, ideal for a refreshing swim.
🛣️ Formentor Lighthouse – Perched at the northernmost tip of the island, the drive here is exhilarating, with sheer drops and unforgettable sea views.
📝 Top Tip: During peak summer months, private cars are restricted from Formentor between 10 am and 7 pm. If you’re driving during these times, park at Playa de Formentor and take a shuttle bus to the lighthouse.
2. Valldemossa to Sóller: Through the Heart of the Tramuntana Mountains
This route takes you deep into the Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO-listed mountain range that defines Mallorca’s rugged beauty. The drive is serene and breathtaking, passing through charming villages and offering some of the island’s best viewpoints.
Highlights of the Drive:
🏡 Valldemossa – A storybook village known for its cobbled streets, flower-filled balconies, and the famous monastery where composer Chopin once stayed.
🎨 Deià – A picturesque artists’ haven with incredible coastal views and the famous Cala Deià beach.
🍊 Sóller – A charming town surrounded by fragrant orange and lemon groves, with a historic wooden tram leading down to Port de Sóller.
📝 Top Tip: Stop at Sa Foradada, a scenic lookout between Deià and Valldemossa, for one of the best sunset spots on the island.
3. Sa Calobra: The Ultimate Hairpin Adventure
If you love thrilling roads, this drive is an absolute must. Sa Calobra is a hidden cove tucked away in the Tramuntana mountains, accessible only by boat or via one of the most challenging and exhilarating roads in Spain.
Highlights of the Drive:
🛣️ Nudo de Corbata (Tie Knot Road) – A famous hairpin bend that loops back on itself in an engineering masterpiece.
🌊 Torrent de Pareis – A dramatic gorge leading to a secluded beach, perfect for exploring and swimming.
🚘 Gorg Blau & Cúber Reservoirs – Peaceful spots in the mountains, ideal for a picnic.
📝 Top Tip: This road is not for nervous drivers—it’s steep, winding, and requires careful navigation. But for those who love adventure, it’s one of the most rewarding drives on the island.
4. The West Coast Drive: From Sant Elm to Valldemossa
If you’re after clifftop roads with breathtaking sea views, this west coast route is your dream drive. The road hugs the coastline, passing traditional villages and endless panoramic viewpoints.
Highlights of the Drive:
🏝️ Sant Elm – A charming seaside village with stunning views of Dragonera Island.
🌊 Estellencs & Banyalbufar – Small, authentic Mallorcan villages with terraced vineyards and dramatic sea views.
🏡 Valldemossa – The final stop, where you can wander through charming streets, visit the historic Carthusian Monastery, and enjoy a traditional ensaïmada pastry.
📝 Top Tip: Make a stop at Torre del Verger, a scenic watchtower with an unbeatable view of the Mediterranean.
5. Manacor to Artà: Mallorca’s Lesser-Known Countryside
For a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path drive, head to Mallorca’s east coast, where rolling hills, hidden caves, and charming villages await.
Highlights of the Drive:
🏡 Manacor – Famous for Mallorca’s pearl industry and traditional craftsmanship.
🏰 Artà – A historic town with a beautiful castle and weekly market.
🌿 Parc Natural de la Península de Llevant – A stunning nature reserve with hiking trails and wild, untouched beaches.
📝 Top Tip: Visit Cuevas del Drach, an underground cave system with an impressive underground lake near Porto Cristo.
Tips for Renting a Car & Driving in Mallorca
🚗 Choose the Right Car: If you’re tackling mountain roads, opt for a compact yet powerful vehicle. Small cars make parking easier, while SUVs handle the Tramuntana terrain well.
🅿️ Parking Can Be Tricky: Towns like Valldemossa, Sóller, and Deià have limited parking, especially in peak season. Arrive early or use designated car parks outside the town centres.
⚠️ Be Cautious of Cyclists: Mallorca is a popular cycling destination, so expect cyclists on winding roads—especially in the Tramuntana mountains.
🚦 Summer Road Closures: Some areas, like Cap Formentor, have vehicle restrictions during peak season. Always check road conditions before you set off.
⛽ Plan Your Fuel Stops: Petrol stations are scarce in rural areas, so fill up before heading into the mountains.
📵 No Phone Signal? No Problem! Some remote areas have poor mobile reception. Download maps in advance or use a GPS navigation system.
Final Thoughts: Why Renting a Car in Mallorca is a Must
Mallorca’s scenic drives are more than just routes – they’re unforgettable journeys. Whether you’re winding through the dramatic cliffs of Cap Formentor, cruising the west coast’s picturesque villages, or discovering hidden beaches in the east, having a rental car unlocks the true beauty of the island.
With flexibility, freedom, and stunning landscapes around every corner, there’s no better way to explore Mallorca than behind the wheel. So, book your car, hit the road, and experience the magic of the island on your own terms.
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