As the British winter drags on, many cyclists find their motivation waning. The turbo trainer becomes a chore, and the thought of another wet, grey weekend ride is enough to make anyone want to hang up their wheels until spring. But what if there was a way to escape it all? Imagine trading in the drizzle for sunshine and swapping potholed lanes for silky-smooth tarmac. That’s exactly what the annual Struggle Events pilgrimage to the cycling paradise of Mallorca offers. Between 13 – 20 March 2026, this trip provides a perfectly timed boost to kickstart the season’s fitness. With options for four or seven-night stays, it’s an awesome opportunity for a proper cycling adventure.
The awesome itinerary: what’s the riding actually like?
Let’s get straight to the good bit: the riding. This isn’t just a casual potter around the coast. The itinerary is packed with over 700 kilometres of expertly planned routes designed to challenge riders and build serious form. The goal is to send everyone home with “new gears in their legs” – that feeling of newfound strength and power that makes hills feel flatter and distances shorter. The awesome itinerary is the core of this cycling trip, featuring some of the most famous roads in Europe. These aren’t just rides; they are experiences.
The schedule includes a number of iconic climbs that are on every serious cyclist’s bucket list. Think of it as a greatest hits collection of Mallorcan cycling. Here’s a little taste of what’s in store:
- Sa Calobra: That mind-bending, snake-like road that winds its way down to a tiny port. It’s famous for its 26 hairpin bends and breathtaking views. The real challenge, of course, is the climb back out.
- Puig Major: The highest point on the island accessible by road bike. It’s a long, steady ascent that rewards riders with an incredible sense of achievement and panoramic views from the top. A truly epic climb.
- Cap de Formentor Lighthouse Ride: A stunning out-and-back route along a narrow peninsula, ending at a dramatic lighthouse. It’s a proper rollercoaster of a road and one of the most photographed rides in the world.
- Three Monasteries Ride: A classic route that takes in a trio of historic monasteries, each perched on its own challenging climb.
And then there’s the ‘Bus Out, Bike Back’ traverse of the island. This is a brilliant way to explore the full breadth of Mallorca’s stunning scenery without having to complete a massive, exhausting loop. The variety of rides ensures that every day offers a fresh challenge and new views, making it an unforgettable week of riding.
Fresh tarmac for 2026: time for some PRs
Any cyclist who’s spent a winter navigating Britain’s crumbling roads will know the joy of smooth tarmac. Good news, then. Mallorca is undertaking a huge project to resurface many of its most popular cycling roads. What does this mean for anyone on the trip? Faster, smoother, and more enjoyable riding. There’s less time spent worrying about potholes and more time to focus on putting the power down or enjoying the scenery. For those who love chasing numbers on their bike computer, this fresh tarmac is an invitation to hunt for some new PRs, or Personal Records. Gliding over a perfect surface makes a huge difference, and it’s the perfect confidence booster for the season ahead on this amazing island.
The accommodation and location: more than just a bed
After a long day in the saddle, a good place to recover is essential. The trip’s base is in Puerto Pollensa, a fantastic location with easy access to both the mountains and the rolling flats. The chosen hotel is more than just a place to sleep; it’s a proper cycling hub. The accommodation is described as an awesome, cycling-friendly hotel, and for good reason. It’s set up specifically for guests on two wheels. This means features like secure bike storage, so there’s no need to worry about leaving a prized possession unattended. There’s also an on-site mechanic for any last-minute tweaks or repairs. Add in a cycling clubhouse and the option for bike hire, and it’s clear this accommodation has been chosen with cyclists’ needs firmly in mind.
Fuelling the engine: breakfast, dinner, and all the good stuff
A big week of cycling requires a serious amount of fuel. The trip is organised so that riders can focus on the bike, not on finding their next meal. A huge buffet breakfast is provided each day, perfect for carb-loading before heading out on the day’s epic rides. In the evening, a buffet dinner with drinks included is the ideal way to refuel and recover. This setup is brilliant because it brings everyone together. The communal breakfast is a great time to chat about the route ahead, while dinner is for sharing stories from the road. The social aspect is built right into the meal times. All riders need to think about is carrying a bit of cash for a mid-ride coffee and a slice of cake. The breakfast and dinner offering ensures the body is ready for each day of riding.
Riding groups and expert guides: finding your peloton
One of the common worries before any group cycling trip is about the pace. Will the group be too fast? Too slow? This is where the different riding groups come in. With three options for varying abilities, riders can choose the group that best suits their fitness and goals for the week. This ensures that everyone gets a fantastic workout without feeling overwhelmed or held back. It’s important to note that this trip isn’t suitable for complete beginners; participants should be riding their bike regularly before they arrive. This ensures the safety and enjoyment of all groups on the challenging itinerary. Leading these groups are expert guides. These guides provide more than just directions; they offer support on the climbs, share local knowledge, and ensure the entire group has a fantastic and safe experience. Having friendly expert support makes all the difference on a challenging ride.
A social and friendly trip: what happens off the bike?
Struggle Events aims to create more than just a training camp; they create a community. The entire trip is designed to be a social and friendly experience. Travelling solo can feel a bit much, but the organisers work hard to foster a welcoming atmosphere for like-minded cyclists. The social aspect is woven through the entire itinerary. It starts with the coffee club in the morning and continues with the post-ride beers, where everyone can relax and debrief the day’s efforts. The communal breakfast and dinner times are also central to the friendly vibe. The week culminates in a social awards night, a fun way to celebrate the week’s achievements. This focus on creating a social atmosphere is what makes the trip so memorable. It’s about sharing an awesome experience, both on and off the bike. Those looking for a friendly cycling adventure should book now, as this trip always sells out. To secure a place, people need to book now!