Richard Branson’s Secret Cycling Hideaways on Mallorca

When you think of Sir Richard Branson, the first images that pop up are usually a sleek private jet, a glass‑topped yacht, or perhaps a daring spaceflight. Yet, every summer the Virgin magnate swaps those high‑octane toys for something far more low‑key: a road bike.

He’s not just cruising the main highways either. Branson has quietly cultivated a handful of favorite stretches across Mallorca that even the most seasoned locals sometimes overlook. The island’s gentle climate, rolling hills and crystal‑clear coastline make it a cyclist’s dream, and Branson seems to have found his personal slice of that paradise.

One of his go‑to spots is the Camí de Sa Mesquita loop near Deià. This modest trail weaves through olive groves, pine forests and drops you off at a tiny, sun‑kissed cove that feels like a secret beach. The climb is steady but not brutal – perfect for a mid‑morning ride that ends with a splash of salty water and a quick espresso at a local café.

Another route that gets his name attached is the Port de Sóller to Cala Deia stretch. The road hugs the coastline, offering panoramic views of the Tramuntana mountains on one side and turquoise sea on the other. Branson often pauses near the lighthouse at Cap de Formentor, not because he needs a photo‑op (though he wouldn’t mind), but simply to soak in the wind that carries a faint scent of thyme and rosemary.

And then there’s the inland trail that threads through the vineyards of Binissalem. This is where Branson, a self‑confessed wine enthusiast, blends his two passions: a brisk ride followed by a tasting of the island’s famous Malvasía. The road is relatively flat, allowing him to keep a comfortable cadence while chatting with the winemakers about sustainable farming – a cause close to his heart.

What’s fascinating is how unpretentious these rides feel. There are no glossy billboards advertising his presence, no media caravans, just a lone cyclist in a teal‑blue bike shirt cutting through the morning mist. Occasionally, a local market stallkeeper will recognize him and offer a quick “Bon dia!” – a reminder that even the world’s most recognizable entrepreneur can blend into the rhythm of everyday island life.

It isn’t all leisurely cruising, though. Branson occasionally tackles the legendary Sa Calobra ascent, a daunting climb that drops into a hair‑pin bend and then spirals down into a dramatic gorge. It’s a test of endurance, and a place where he reportedly reflects on new ventures – perhaps brainstorming the next Virgin project while the world whizzes by.

Beyond the routes themselves, Branson’s love for Mallorca stems from the island’s commitment to sustainability. He’s been spotted attending local beach clean‑ups, and the Virgin Group has even partnered with the Balearic government on solar‑energy pilots. His cycling habit, in a way, mirrors his broader philosophy: enjoy the journey, respect the environment, and keep pushing the boundaries – even if those boundaries are just a hilltop view.

So, next time you find yourself wandering the sun‑baked lanes of Mallorca, keep an eye out for a lone rider with a curious grin and a breath that matches the sea breeze. You might just be sharing the road with Sir Richard Branson, savoring the same sunsets that inspire his next great adventure.