runners in Palma de Mallorca

A Guide to Running in North Mallorca

Running in North Mallorca - Is it a good destination for keen runners?

Whether you’re a seasoned marathon runner, a trail enthusiast, or someone who enjoys casual jogs with scenic views, Mallorca offers a variety of running experiences. Consider the following:

Coastal running Mallorca

Coastal paths offer breathtaking views of the sea, with routes that are generally flat and suitable for all levels of runners.

 

  • Palma, Pollença, Alcúdia: These areas offer flat, long-distance coastal paths and promenades, perfect for runners of all levels. 
  • Platja de Muro: A relaxing route with the sound of waves and sand underfoot, especially enjoyable at sunrise or sunset according to Garden Hotels. 
  • Palma Nova, Sóller: These locations also provide excellent coastal running options.

Mountain/Trail Running Mallorca

In contrast, mountain trails are for those seeking a challenge. The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range provides rugged trails with significant elevation gains, offering both technical runs and stunning vistas. Here a few suggestions:

  • Serra de Tramuntana: This mountain range offers a network of ancient paths, ideal for trail running. 
  • Puig de Sant Miquel circuit: A popular route in the Serra de Tramuntana. 
  • Finca de Galatzó, Molla de s’Esclop and Pas des Cossis: These trails offer varying terrain and are well-suited for trail running enthusiasts. 
  • Port de Soller – Refugi de Muleta, Port de Pollenca – Cala Sant Vicenç, Cala Agulla – es Telègraf – Cala Mesquida – Puig de l’Àguila: These are other notable trail running routes.
  • Wherever you are running in Mallorca, you can be sure of the scenic charm to motivate you and keep those legs hammering. There’s nothing more exhilarating than being part of the landscape as you run along country paths, sandy beaches or a stony trail upwards.

Running on the Beach

Running on the beach not only provides an idyllic setting for your run, it can improve your speed and muscle tone too. According to a study, pounding the sand – especially dry, loose sand – requires 1.6 times more energy than running on pavements as your body has to work harder to deal with the soft, unstable surface. This results in more defined muscles and a quicker run when you get back on solid ground. There’s also much less impact force when you run on sand as opposed to running on concrete, reducing the stress of pounding on the lower extremities. Running barefoot on the sand allows your feet to move through their natural range of motion, which helps to strengthen your feet and ankles. However, whether you decide to run with trainers or without, start with short runs to build strength in your feet and gradually lengthen running time as your body adapts to running on a new surface. The wet, hard-packed sand by the sea is the easiest sandy surface to run on, so why not try running ten minutes on that to warm up, followed by a minute on the soft, dry sand further from the sea for a harder workout, then back to the hard packed sand for another minute to recover, zigzagging back and forth until you’ve done five to ten one minute bursts. Don’t forget to finish with a dip in the sea to cool you down and soothe tired muscles! 

start line of a marathon race

Safe Summer Running Tips

Running in hot and humid conditions can lead to dehydration, heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses, so read our safety tips and enjoy your run in the sun! 

 

  • The Weather in Mallorca    Mallorca enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. Spring and autumn, with their cooler temperatures and lower humidity, are particularly ideal for running.
  • Stay hydrated    Keep your body hydrated by drinking fluids before, during and after your run. If you are running for longer than an hour, take in electrolytes in the form of a sports drink. Water alone isn’t enough to replace lost salt and minerals. 
  • Dress sensibly    Light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing helps your body to breathe and cool down naturally. Wear mesh/ breathable synthetic materials and avoid cotton. Wear a breathable cap and sunglasses. 
  • Run early or late    Avoid running between 10am and 4pm if you can. If not, choose a shady route. Before sunrise or just after is the best time to run, before the roads have had a chance to heat up.
  • Protect your skin with a waterproof sunscreen.     
  • Don’t push it     Take the weather conditions into account. Hot and humid conditions are not the time to push your pace. Slow down, take walking breaks and save your hard work for the cooler weather.
  • Guided Tours:    If you prefer guided runs or want to connect with other runners, consider joining running tours or groups like Run Mallorca or Trail Running Mallorca.

Mallorca running events - What to do in Mallorca if you are a Runner?

Mallorca hosts various running events throughout the year, including marathons, half-marathons, and trail races, catering to different levels of fitness and experience. From the half marathon of Pollensa in May, to the half marathon in Palma in October; you will see other smaller events tagged on like a 10k or 5k. PLus, if you’re celebrating a fiesta somewhere on the island (there’s always one somewhere), then there will most likely be a running race as part of the fiesta programme. 

 

Whether you’re looking to compete in a race, find new training grounds, or simply enjoy leisurely jogs in a beautiful setting, Mallorca offers a welcoming and stimulating environment for runners of all preferences and abilities. There are so many races on the island if you are wondering what to do in Mallorca during your stay. Here are a few Mallorca running races that are based in the north:

     Alcudia Marathon (Part of Long Course Weekend)

  • When: Late October
  • Where: Port d’Alcúdia
  • Distances: 5 km, 10 km, Half Marathon (21.1 km), and Full Marathon (42.2 km)
  • Details: This event is part of the Long Course Weekend Mallorca, offering a scenic route through Alcúdia. It’s suitable for both amateurs and professionals, with various distances to choose from.

      Pollença Half-Marathon

  • When: Annually (exact date varies)
  • Where: Pollença and Port de Pollença
  • Distances: 5 km, 10 km, and Half Marathon (21.1 km)
  • Details: This race offers a picturesque route along the seafront of Port de Pollença and through the historic quarter of Pollença. It’s considered one of the best half-marathon races in Mallorca due to its quality and scenic course.                                                                                  
  • Port de Pollença Sea Race (Cursa Marinera)
  • When: Early July
  • Where: Port de Pollença
  • Distance: 7 km
  • Details: A night-time fun run along the seafront of Port de Pollença and its famous beaches. Organized by the Port de Pollença Residents’ Association and the town hall of Pollença.

  • IRONMAN 70.3 Alcudia-Mallorca

    • When: Mid-May
    • Where: Port d’Alcúdia
    • Distances: 1.9 km swim, 90 km bike, 21.1 km run

    Details: Part of the global IRONMAN series, this event attracts approximately 3,500 athletes. The race includes a swim in Alcúdia Bay, a bike course through scenic northern Mallorca, and a run along the beach.

Sant Silvestre Alcúdia

  • When: December 31

  • Where: Alcúdia

  • Distances: 2.5 km and 7.5 km

Details: A festive end-of-year race starting from Plaça Carles V. It’s a popular event to celebrate New Year’s Eve with a community run.
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These events offer a great way to experience the natural beauty and community spirit of northern Mallorca. If you’re interested in participating, it’s advisable to check the official event websites for registration details and exact dates, as they may vary each year.

 

For most of the events in Mallorca, EliteChip is the company specializing in the organization and timing of runs and all kinds of sporting events. It has quickly become the leading company in the sector in the Balearic Islands, and offers a comprehensive service in competition management delivered with the highest standards of quality, safety and efficiency. 

 

It is the only company in the Balearics to offer the ChampionChip timing system, a technology approved by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) and used in marathons and most important athletic events in the world. This highly accurate technology measures the times and results of each competitor through a radiofrequency system connected to a chip which is placed around the ankle, or more recently on the runners number bib. 



If you are interested in entering an event, the chances are it will be via elite chip, so remember their name. www.elitechip.net.

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