Boulder is quite high with climbs starting at around 5430ft (1655m). Mallorca on the other hand is basically at sea level. Boulder is dry and in the middle of the United States. Mallorca is an island in the Mediterranean. Two beautiful, very different places, with cycling in common.
PUIG MAJOR v. SUNSHINE CANYON
Somewhat similar in distance and close-ish elevation gain, but otherwise these climbs feel very different. Puig Major is a flowy, steady power climb on buttery smooth asphalt. It’s never steep or punchy. Sunshine is a climb of multiple personalities. Gradual, then steep, then mellow, then even steeper, then gravel (smooth at times or brain rattling washboards other times). It’s still one of the best climbs in Boulder and will get you to Gold Hill (for the cookies and pie of course).
SA CALOBRA v. SUPERFLAG: The Icons
Both of these climbs are world-class. It’s a trek to get to Sa Calobra and once you’re there you first descend the whole length down to a little cove w/ cafes. Turn right back around and start the climb which twists, turns, and loops back on itself at the top like a snake. This road was designed for beauty, not for efficiency. Superflag on the other hand is accessible directly from downtown Boulder (literally 10 minutes ride), which makes it a perfect morning or lunch ride. Steep at first (to the flagstaff house), then more gradual until you pass the amphitheater turnoff, which is where it gets significantly harder. The climbs share similar gradients and neither of them terribly long (say 45-50minutes +/-), but they are extremely memorable. They both offer incredible views and will always encourage you to push a little harder.
SA BATALLA (my fav) v. LEE HILL
Small-ish climbs on the way to bigger things. Sa Batalla and Lee Hill are similar in many ways. Both climbs have two distinct segments. First half, then a reprieve, then punch it for the second half. I’ll admit, Sa Batalla (aka The Petrol Station Climb) is possibly my favorite climb in Mallorca. It’s a bit underrated, because you’re always on the way to something bigger (like Sa Calobra), but the road is just perfect. You ascend along cliff terraced olive groves, fragrant pines, and limestone walls (you may also see some road goats), then you reach the summit at the Petrol Station and Cafe where you and hoards of other cyclists are grabbing coffee and supplies. Lee Hill in comparison is a two-way climb. Clock-wise (front side) is longer. Counterclock-wise (back side from lefthand canyon) is shorter, but still quite steep.
