The ÖTILLÖ World Series has announced a new race for the 2027 calendar: ÖTILLÖ Swimrun Mallorca, scheduled for April 3, 2027. Taking place in the north of the island, the race will mark the official start of the new European season and promises a course of rugged beauty, set between the steep cliffs of the Tramuntana Mountains and the surreal turquoise waters of the Bay of Alcúdia.
I’m tempted to take part in this race; the timing is right, the location looks excellent, and it would serve as a great motivational goal to keep me focused and active throughout the winter.
The Route: From the Medieval Citadel of Alcúdia to Wild Terrain
The competition will start in the historic town of Alcúdia, renowned for its medieval walls. The routes will take competitors along coastal paths, through pine forests, across rocky terrain, and include swimming sections along the peninsula’s steep cliffs.
According to the organizers, the route also encompasses untouched mountainous areas normally closed to the general public, offering participants access to a lesser-known yet spectacular side of the island.
Alcúdia: the race’s starting point and historical setting
The town of Alcúdia is one of the most spectacular destinations in the Balearic Islands; it is situated in the north of Mallorca on a strategic peninsula that separates the bays of Pollença and Alcúdia.
The heart of the town is its historic center, which is completely encircled by impeccably preserved 14th-century defensive walls. Its narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with limestone buildings and charming squares filled with cafés and restaurants serving local cuisine.
Just outside the medieval fortifications lie the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Pollentia, founded in 123 BC. Here, visitors can explore the remains of the former forum, well-preserved Roman houses, and a Roman theatre carved directly into the rock—the smallest in Spain, yet boasting remarkable acoustics.
Nature, turquoise waters, and a sporty profile
For outdoor sports and fitness enthusiasts, the Alcúdia area offers ideal conditions:
- Port d’Alcúdia Beach and Bay: a long stretch of fine sand and calm waters, perfect for open-water swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, or water sports.
- Natural landscape and varied terrain: serving as a gateway to the Tramuntana Mountains (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and located near the S’Albufera Nature Reserve, the area provides ideal terrain for road cycling, coastal running, and mountain trail running.
Three distances for all levels
ÖTILLÖ Mallorca offers three race formats, suitable both for those seeking qualification and extreme challenges and for those wishing to experience the sport in a stunning setting:
- World Series (Long Distance): Total distance: 31.3 km (5.3 km swim / 26 km run), Elevation gain: +918 m
- Sprint:Total distance: 18.4 km (1.95 km swim / 16.5 km run), Elevation gain: +221 m
- Experience: Total distance: 7.1 km (1.4 km swim / 5.7 km run), Elevation gain: +19 m
Weather conditions and what equipment to choose?
Choosing early April is a strategic move: the island is easily accessible via Palma Airport, and the spring weather is mild and stable, with daytime air temperatures hovering around 18–20°C—ideal conditions for running.
When it comes to swimming, however, the situation is a bit different. In early April, the average water temperature of the Mediterranean off the coast of northern Mallorca is 14–16°C.
Consequently, competing in just a standard trisuit is completely out of the question. A neoprene swimrun suit is mandatory, along with thermal accessories (such as arm sleeves and possibly neoprene calf guards) to handle the repeated transitions between water and land without risking hypothermia.
The event hub and Race Village will be hosted by the Zafiro Palace complex in Alcúdia, and registration is set to open soon.
The seed has been planted; now I’m torn—should I attempt a solo adventure, or find a teammate to tackle this challenge with?