Palma de Mallorca, 21st Sep 10

MALLORCA’S WINTER SPORTING CALENDAR

Mallorca is well known as one of the favorite holiday destinations for the British public in summer months. However, its mild sunny winter climate, diverse landscape and excellent sports facilities make it one of the leading destinations in the Mediterranean to practice a wide range of outdoor sports.

CYCLING

Over the past 12 years the local government has invested in providing top facilities for visiting cyclists with 260 kms of dedicated cycling routes around the island making it one of the top cycling tourist destinations in Europe and one of the top locations for various competitive events:

The 13th International Cycling Masters competition will take place from October 11th – 16th bringing together amateur cyclists in three categories. The competition starts in Playa de Palma with the 8th European Cup and continues until the 13th with the International Masters Trophy, which will take the competitors through the mountains and finishing in Palmanova. On the 14-16th October the Round Mallorca Masters Challenge will start in Cala d’Or passing through Inca and finishing in the Playa de Muro.

Coming up in April 2011 is the second Mallorca Classic by leading European cycling specialist, Max Hürzeler, when approximately 2,500 cyclists will meet on April 10th to cycle 148,7 kilometres around the island. Information: www.vueltamallorca.com

GOLF

Mallorca has 23 golf courses, two of which are private, providing an excellent choice for the accomplished golfer. Most golf courses on Mallorca offer training and pro classes for further information: www.infomallorca.net.

Golf for the Handicapped

The Handisport Foundation was established three years ago to offer a range of sports for handicapped adults and children. This October they will launch a new golf introduction course at Golf Maiois in Calvia. Information: www.fundacionhandisport.org

TENNIS

Probably the most famous Mallorcan at present is the world’s number one tennis champion Rafael Nadal. Mallorca is also home to ex tennis star Carlos Moya and has become the second home to Boris Becker, Charly Steeb and Guillermo Vilas.

Visitors who wish to follow in their famous footsteps can chose from a good range of excellent tennis facilities and tennis training on the island. Some examples include: Jonathan Markson courses in Paguera (south west) Mallorca. Information: www.marksontennis.com and Master Tennis Coaching in Cala Millor on the east coast of the island directed by tennis professional, Steve Williams.

Providing a full range of courses for all ages and all levels: www.mastertenniscoaching.com. The Guilermo Vilas Tennis Academy will launch its first International tournament from 13th – 21st of November when they expect players from all over Europe and Asia to attend. Information: www.vilastennisacademy.com

WALKING/HIKING

Visitors can enjoy all levels of walking and hiking throughout the island. Here are some specific examples:

Nordic Walking Routes

Alcudia, in the north, has launched the first Nordic Walking Routes on the island. The new brochure features three different routes of varying levels taking in coastline and the mountain countryside. The brochure, which is available from the local tourist office and local hotels, gives full details on each route with maps. Further information: www.illesbalears.es

Walks Along Ancient Stone Paths

Walking along Mallorca’s ancient stone walled route is one of the best ways to see the countryside and take in historic relics and places of interest. The route is divided into 8 stages and each stage will have its own refuge when the restoration is complete. To date, two refuges are now open; Tossals Verds & Muleta. Further information: www.conselldemallorca.net/mediambient/pedra

Walking in Calvia

The south west region of Calvia takes in some of the island’s best known sea and sun resorts but also offers great countryside beyond the coastline. A book of 15 walks in this area has been compiled by walking specialist Valerie Green with easy to follow detail and advice, comprehensive maps and information on the local flora and fauna. Copies available from all local tourist offices or: www.visitcalvia.com.

The latest 7th edition of Valerie Green’s book; “Landscapes of Mallorca” is now available from Sunflower Books with ideas and suggestions for walks and excursions throughout Mallorca. www.sunflowerbooks.co.uk.

Guided Walks in Soller

In the west of the island two multi lingual, experienced guides are available throughout the winter and spring. They feature a variety of walks with different fitness level and can be contacted via their website: www.mallorcamuntanya.com.

MARATHONS

Tui Marathon

This annual marathon is now in its 6th year takes place in and around Palma and last year attracted over 6000 runners from over 50 countries. The 2010 marathon will take place on October 17th for information: www.tui-marathon.com

Calvia’s Annual Marathon and Half Marathon

Takes place on December 12th, 2010, will start in the resort of Magaluf and take its 21 kms course through the resorts of Palma Nova and Santa Ponsa. This event becomes more popular each year and is expected to attract over 600 participants from all over the world. Further information: www.calvia.com or www.visitcalvia.com or for packages from the UK contact: www.runningcrazy.co.uk

For further information, please contact:
Mallorca Tourist Board, Dominique Carroll / Anna Skidmore,
Tel:(+34) 971 725 396 Fax: (+34) 971 713 540
E-Mail: info@fomentmallorca.org

Further Press Releases:

GOOD NEWS FOR MALLORCA IN 2012 (09th Feb 12)

THREE KINGS - THE FESTIVITIES CONTINUE! (05th Jan 12)

FESTIVE SWEETS CAN BE HEAVENLY (05th Jan 12)