Top 7 Mountain Passes around Sant Llorenç Des Cardassar

Cyclists often enjoy Fishermen's Pass, which features a quiet road leading from Artá up to Coll des Pescadors, including a descent to the Ermita Betlém. Another popular choice is the West Ascent of Coll des Vidriers, which offers a quiet route for cyclists with scenic views, avoiding a tunnel.

For breathtaking vistas, consider Coll de Son Escrivà, which provides a beautiful panorama from its summit. Additionally, the Coll des Vidrier offers wonderful views in both directions from the top of the pass.

While Sant Llorenç Des Cardassar is in a less mountainous region, the climb to Puig de Sant Salvador near Felanitx offers a significant challenge. It's approximately 5 kilometers long with an average gradient of 6-7%, featuring scenic hairpin turns and a 345-meter vertical ascent. From the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of eastern Mallorca and the Mediterranean Sea.

The ascent to Puig de Sant Salvador leads to the Santuari de Sant Salvador, a monastery dating back to the mid-14th century, which houses a Gothic altar and religious paintings. At the summit, there's also a 7-meter-high statue of Jesus Christ and the Creu de Sant Salvador monument partway up the climb. The Ascent to Ermita de Betlem from Artà also leads to a religious building with great views.

Beyond cycling the passes themselves, the region around Sant Llorenç Des Cardassar offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy to difficult routes like the Punta de n'Amer loop. There are also extensive cycling routes and MTB trails that traverse rural landscapes and coastal areas.

The mountain passes in this region are generally considered intermediate, but many routes around Sant Llorenç Des Cardassar are suitable for varying activity levels. For easier cycling, consider routes utilizing former railway lines like the Vía Verde Manacor-Artà. For hiking, the Punta de n'Amer – Punta de n'Amer loop from punta de n’Amer is an easy option.

The eastern part of Mallorca, including the area around Sant Llorenç Des Cardassar, is pleasant for outdoor activities for much of the year. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer mild temperatures ideal for cycling and hiking, with less intense heat than summer and generally good weather conditions.

At the summit of Puig de Sant Salvador, a popular cycling destination, you'll find a cafe for refreshments. Parking is generally available at the starting points of many routes and near towns like Felanitx or Artà, which serve as access points to these passes.

While specific dog policies for individual passes may vary, many natural areas and trails in Mallorca are dog-friendly, especially if dogs are kept on a leash. It's always advisable to check local regulations for specific parks or protected areas like Parc Natural de Llevant if your route takes you through them.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning panoramic views, especially from passes like Coll de Son Escrivà and Puig de Sant Salvador. Cyclists appreciate the challenging yet rewarding climbs and the quiet roads, often comparing sections like Fishermen's Pass to more famous European climbs. The blend of physical activity with scenic beauty and historical sites is a major draw.

While the region is known for its accessible climbs, exploring the quieter roads leading to passes like Fishermen's Pass can feel like discovering a hidden gem. These routes often offer a peaceful experience away from heavier traffic, with beautiful scenery and a sense of tranquility.