Arriving at the Airport

Arriving at the Airport

Spain, europe

Length

51 km

Elevation

N/A

Difficulty

extreme

Best Season

Year-round

Mallorca's driving scene, while not super extreme, definitely keeps you on your toes! This island packs a ton of routes into a small space, so choosing your wheels wisely is key.

One must-do drive is the MA-1131. This paved road stretches for 51km, serving up drop-dead gorgeous views. It's known as the island's wildest ride, and it's not hard to see why. Think hairpin turns, tunnels, and shimmering reservoirs along the way. It's a blast to drive, but be extra cautious on rainy days – those curves can get pretty slick. Also, these roads can be super narrow, sometimes barely wide enough for two cars to squeeze by at once.

Keep an eye out for those rocky cliffs, too. Some sections don't have netting, so there's a small chance of rocks crumbling onto the road. Mallorca might not be the most dangerous place to drive, but paying attention and knowing what you're getting into is essential for an unforgettable road trip.

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Road Details

Country
Spain
Continent
europe
Length
51 km
Difficulty
extreme

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