A small chapel and a wide view across Mallorca. Santa Magdalena stands on a hill near Inca. The winding climb is short but has steep sections for cyclists. At the top, look across Inca to the Tramuntana and towards the Bay of Alcúdia. A lovely destination for walking, cycling or simply enjoying the view.
Santa Magdalena
Santa Magdalena in 30 seconds
The essentials at a glance
The view makes the climb worthwhile.
- Worth a visit?
- Worth visiting for the wide views and small chapel
- Best for
- Walkers, cyclists and anyone who enjoys a good view
- Best months
- January–June, September–December
- Time to allow
- Around 30–60 minutes for the chapel and views, plus your journey or climb
- Without a car
- On foot or by bike, allowing for the climb
- Parking
- Spaces near the buildings at the top; keep entrances and access clear
- Highlight
- Views over Inca towards the Tramuntana and Alcúdia
- Keep in mind
- A shaded climb in high-summer heat
- Access
- Outdoor viewpoints; chapel access depends on opening
Get a feel for Mallorca. Find your kind of place.
Ermita de Santa Magdalena and its forecourt, somewhere to catch your breath and look around after the climb.
The chapel on Puig de Santa Magdalena. A hermitage is documented here as early as 1284.
Inside the simply furnished chapel, which was open during Friedhelm's visit.
Getting to know Santa Magdalena
Does Santa Magdalena suit your plans?
What to expect and what to know before you visit.
Who it suits
- You want far-reaching views across inland Mallorca
- You enjoy a short but demanding cycling climb
- You would like a walk with a break by the chapel
Things to bear in mind
- You expect a shaded climb throughout in high summer
- Narrow, winding mountain roads make you uncomfortable
Region
Raiguer
Season guide for Santa Magdalena
November Worth a visit
Worth visiting in January, February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November and December.
Location
Location of Santa Magdalena
- Region
- Raiguer
- Municipality
- Inca
- Hire car
- recommended
- Worth visiting for
- a brief stop
- Coordinates
- 39.7286,2.9573
A small chapel above Inca
Santa Magdalena stands on a hill near Inca. The approach lifts you out of the plain to a chapel and outbuildings beside a paved forecourt, with trees and open views between them.
According to Inca tourist information, a hermitage is documented here from 1284. The chapel is simply furnished, with wooden pews, an exposed timber ceiling and the altar beneath arches. It was open during Friedhelm’s visit. If it is open when you arrive, sit for a moment before heading outside to the views.
Inca, the Tramuntana and the Bay of Alcúdia
Do not settle for looking in just one direction. Inca lies on one side, with the Serra de Tramuntana stretching behind it. Elsewhere, the view opens towards Sa Pobla and the Bay of Alcúdia.
How far you can see depends on visibility and light. Friedhelm describes seeing towards Randa in the right conditions. Haze hides more distant landmarks while leaving the nearby fields and villages visible.
Take your time and try several viewpoints around the grounds. That is much of the pleasure of coming here.
A short cycling climb with a sting
The main road climb is about 2.7 kilometres long. Depending on the measured section, the average gradient is given as six to seven per cent, with individual ramps around ten per cent. It is not a long mountain pass, but your legs will notice it.
Bends break up the ascent. Ride at your own pace and bring water. The quoted distance covers the climb, not an entire route from Inca.
Control your speed on the narrow descent, where you share the road with cars and other cyclists. Friedhelm’s first arrival at the top came with applause from fellow riders.
Walking or driving up
Santa Magdalena also makes a walking destination. Local tourist information describes sections of the old route with stone steps as well as the road approach. Plan the distance and return route to suit your fitness.
A tarmac road reaches the buildings. Drive slowly around bends and watch for oncoming traffic. On his second visit, Friedhelm found the descent particularly memorable because of the hillside dropping away ahead. Bear that in mind if such roads make you uneasy.
There is also a restaurant at the top. Check current hours before planning a meal, and bring your own water for any walk or cycle ride.
Allow for summer heat
Santa Magdalena is worthwhile throughout the year, especially on clear days. Spring and autumn generally make the climb more comfortable than midsummer.
July and August are less suitable for walkers and cyclists. The route has little shade. Start early and adjust the outing to the temperature. In extreme heat, leave the climb for another day.
Photographs
Santa Magdalena in Mallorca
Practical details
- Parking
- Designated spaces near the buildings at the top
- Time to allow
- Around 30–60 minutes for the chapel and views, plus your journey or climb
- Good to know
- Depending on where you measure from, the road climb is about 2.7 kilometres, averaging roughly 6–7 per cent with ramps around 10 per cent. Bring water and sun protection for walking or cycling. The chapel and restaurant have their own opening hours.
- Access
- Tarmac approach and paved forecourt; walking paths may have steps and uneven ground · Wheelchairs: No fully accessible route confirmed; ask about chapel access beforehand
- Coordinates
- 39.7286,2.9573 Google Maps Apple Maps
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Distances without a driving time are measured in a straight line. The road journey can be much longer; known driving times are shown alongside.
Places to stay within reach
Explore from here
Your questions answered
Your questions about Santa Magdalena
Where is Santa Magdalena in Mallorca?
Ermita de Santa Magdalena stands on the hill of the same name near Inca. From the top, you look over the town towards the Tramuntana and the Bay of Alcúdia.
How steep is the cycling climb?
The main climb is usually given as roughly 2.7 kilometres, averaging around 6–7 per cent, with ramps near 10 per cent. Figures vary with the starting point and measurement. The approach from Inca is additional.
Can you drive up?
Yes. A narrow, winding tarmac road leads to the site. Drive slowly, watch for oncoming vehicles and cyclists, and use only designated parking spaces at the top.
Is the chapel always open?
It was open during Friedhelm's visit, but that does not guarantee daily or continuous opening. You can enjoy the views from the outdoor grounds.
When is Santa Magdalena worth visiting?
Throughout the year, especially in clear weather. July and August are less suitable for climbing because of the heat. Choose cooler hours for a walk or cycle ride.
Practical questions
When is the best time to visit Santa Magdalena?
Recommended months: January, February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November, December.
Is Santa Magdalena worth visiting in July and August?
July: worth considering with some reservations. Little shade on the climb. In very hot weather, walk or cycle at cooler times or choose another day. August: worth considering with some reservations. Little shade on the climb. In very hot weather, walk or cycle at cooler times or choose another day.
Do I need a hire car for Santa Magdalena?
A car is useful
Where can I park in Santa Magdalena?
Designated spaces near the buildings at the top
Can I visit Santa Magdalena with a pushchair or wheelchair?
Tarmac approach and paved forecourt; walking paths may have steps and uneven ground Wheelchairs: No fully accessible route confirmed; ask about chapel access beforehand
Words and photographs: Friedhelm Fischer. Exploring Mallorca since 2013 — by bike, on foot and with a camera.