The Sa Calobra winds its way from the sea onto the shoulder of the Puig Major, Mallorca's highest mountain. Situated in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, the Sa Calobra has over 200,000 Strava entries and counting, ranging from under 25 minutes to four hours. Just enough time to take in the view.
The official name of the Sa Calobra is the Col de Cal Reis. Translated, Sa Calobra means snake or cobra. Originally a mule track, today's road opened in 1933 and features multiple hairpin bends and a 270° spiral bridge called the Tie Knot.
Climbing the Sa Calobra is tough, but not too tough. It's hot, but usually not too hot. It's definitely a challenge, but one that leaves you feeling physically and mentally on top of the world. The air is sweet and smells of the sea. Going up or down, it's as close to paradise on a bike as you're ever likely to find.
Loved by professionals and amateurs alike, the Strava leaderboard reads like a who's who of the cycling world. Like Alpe d'Huez, the Sa Calobra allows anyone to test how they stand up against the best in the world.
