Manacor-Artà Greenway and Coastal Loop

The full circular gravel route, encompassing the Punta de n'Amer Castle, the Porto Cristo Lighthouse, and sections of the Via Verde Manacor–Artà, is approximately 50.5 kilometers long. It typically takes around 3 hours and 51 minutes to complete on a touring bicycle, depending on your pace and stops.

This route is a 'circular gravel' experience, meaning you'll encounter a mix of surfaces. The Vía Verde Manacor–Artà sections are largely flat, consisting of a crushed rock rail bed, though some patches can be rough. The headland of Punta de n'Amer involves a rough off-road track, while the coastal path between Cala Millor and Porto Cristo is generally easy and flat. Overall, it's ideal for touring or gravel bikes.

The route is rated as moderate. While the Vía Verde Manacor–Artà sections are generally flat and accessible, the overall route includes unpaved and rough segments, particularly around Punta de n'Amer. It requires good fitness and is best suited for cyclists with some experience on varied terrain, rather than absolute beginners.

You'll encounter several notable sights. Highlights include the historic Punta de n'Amer Castle, offering spectacular coastal views, and the scenic Porto Cristo Lighthouse. The route also takes you along the Cala Millor Promenade and through the tranquil countryside of the Via Verde Manacor–Artà, passing by the Old Sant Llorenç des Cardassar railway station.

You can find parking in towns along the route. For accessing the Vía Verde Manacor–Artà, parking is available at the restored railway stations in towns like Manacor, Sant Llorenç, Son Carrio, Son Servera, and Artà. If starting closer to the coast, parking can be found in areas like Cala Millor or Porto Cristo.

The best time to cycle in Mallorca, and this route specifically, is generally during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months. During these periods, the weather is pleasantly mild, and the landscapes are vibrant. Summer can be very hot, making longer rides challenging, while winter can bring cooler temperatures and occasional rain.

The Vía Verde Manacor–Artà, which forms a significant part of this route, is generally accessible for walkers and cyclists with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash. However, specific rules for dogs in the Punta de n'Amer nature reserve and other coastal areas may vary, so it's advisable to check local regulations for each segment.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this route. The Vía Verde Manacor–Artà is a public greenway, and access to the Punta de n'Amer nature reserve is also free.

Yes, this route incorporates a significant portion of the Vía Verde Manacor–Artà. It also briefly crosses sections of the GR226 - East Mallorca and El Camí IT4TR3 El Camí Illenc: de l'Alguer a Formentera, among other smaller local paths like camí de Sa Punta and Passeig Marítim de Cala Bona.

Yes, you'll find opportunities for refreshments. The towns along the Vía Verde Manacor–Artà, such as Sant Llorenç, Son Carrio, Son Servera, and Artà, have cafes and restaurants. The Old Sant Llorenç des Cardassar railway station is noted as a restaurant. Additionally, the coastal towns of Cala Millor and Porto Cristo offer numerous dining options.

The route offers incredibly diverse scenery. Along the Vía Verde, you'll cycle through traditional Majorcan countryside with green expanses, almond and carob trees, and reforested areas with pines and wild olive trees. The coastal sections around Punta de n'Amer and Porto Cristo provide spectacular Mediterranean sea views and access to beautiful coves. Punta de n'Amer itself is a 200-hectare nature reserve, offering a peaceful natural environment.