Self-guided Algarve Bike Tour

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Overview

With average annual sunshine of 3,100 hours, Algarve in southern Portugal is the sunniest place in Europe, and one of the sunniest anywhere in the world.

And since you’re never too far from the sea in Algarve, the weather never transitions from being warm to hot. Few other places on earth have nicer weather than Algarve.

Get set to enjoy this land of cobblestoned streets and whitewashed houses with lace-patterned chimneys, surrounded everywhere by fig, olive, almond, and carob trees.

Ride along picturesque lagoons of Ria Formosa, visit Tavira, famous for being Algarve’s most romantic town, and enjoy the views from Cape St. Vincent, Europe’s southwestern most point.

Start

Faro

Finish

Faro

Lodging

casual

Level

easy

Avg. dist. cycled

45km or 28mi

Group size

Min. 2, Max. 12

Fly-In

Faro

Fly-Out

Faro

Highlights

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Stunning Coastal Views

The Algarve boasts breathtaking coastal landscapes with dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and sparkling blue waters.

Itinerary

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

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Day 1: Faro to Odeceixe

We meet at Faro and transfer to Odeceixe. If you arrive at Faro with time to spare, we recommend exploring the historic center of Faro. Arrive at Odeceixe and relax with a beer at the charming square and take in the sights, including a visit to the nearby windmill.

Meals:
Accommodation: Casas Do Moinho
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Day 2: Aljezur

Set out on a scenic cycling journey along the river to the breathtaking beach of Odeceixe, where stunning views and unique rock formations await. Traverse through picturesque farmland, passing by lush green cornfields contrasting against golden grass in the warm seasons, until reaching another beautiful wild beach. Pause at a charming café to savor a refreshing drink and light lunch while admiring surf schools in action. After a revitalizing swim, continue pedaling to the historic village of Aljezur, rich in local art shops, galleries, and museums waiting to be explored. For those seeking more adventure, extend your ride to discover additional beaches or meander along a beautiful farmland valley.

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Meals: B
Cycling Distance: 35km / 21mi
Accommodation: Vicentina hotel
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Day 3: Pedralva

Today we go on an exhilarating cycling adventure as we conquer the Castle of Aljezur, soaking in the panoramic views over the village and its lush vegetable gardens. Journey along the coast to explore a fortress perched on cliffs, offering unparalleled defense and breathtaking vistas of the iconic "needle rock" in the ocean. Delve into an off-road escapade through eucalyptus forests, wild endemic bushes, and tranquil lakeside valleys, revealing the untamed beauty of the Algarve countryside. Explore charming hamlets like Bordeira with its Manueline style church, and Carrapateira, where rugged coastline meets stunning vistas. Indulge in a picnic lunch by secluded beaches, and delve into local maritime history at the fisherman's museum, uncovering tales of daring catches and coastal life. We conclude our day's journey at a picturesque hamlet, where restored houses offer a cozy retreat amidst the rugged landscape.

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Meals: B
Cycling Distance: 55km / 34mi
Accommodation: Aldeia da Pedralva
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Day 4: Sagres

Today we ride through the rugged landscapes of Pedralva, winding along dirt roads and passing beneath majestic wind farms. Delve into the historic sanctuary of Guadalupe, where tales of sea exploration come to life with intriguing insights into the life of Infant D. Henrique, the prince of maritime discovery. Get immersed in picturesque villages as we continue our adventure, eventually reaching the untamed coastline for a refreshing swim amidst towering cliffs. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Cape of S. Vicente, Europe's southwesternmost point, before indulging in another beachside dip and exploring the historic Fortress of Sagres. Conclude the day at a charming hotel boasting breathtaking views of the cliffs and fortress, making your Portugal bike tour truly unforgettable.

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Meals: B
Cycling Distance: 45km / 28mi
Accommodation: Pousada de Sagres
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Day 5: Lagos

In the morning, we do a shuttle transport of about 2hrs to avoid the traffic. Later set out on an exhilarating journey along the mesmerizing southern coastline, where every twist and turn reveals hidden gems of wild beaches beckoning us to pause for a refreshing swim and sip of your favorite drink. Feel the warmth of the ocean's embrace, contrasting with the tranquil waters, as we marvel at the ever-changing cliffs transitioning from black schist to vibrant orange sandstone. Explore bustling villages teeming with cafés, restaurants, and shopping delights, offering a taste of local culture and charm. Traverse narrow secondary roads, passing by ancient fortresses boasting panoramic views, before culminating in an awe-inspiring trek along the cliffs, where nature's artistry is on full display with breathtaking rock formations sculpted by centuries of erosion. Conclude the day in Lagos, a lively coastal city adorned with enchanting architecture and a vibrant atmosphere, inviting us to explore its rich history, culture, and cosmopolitan flair.

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Meals: B
Cycling Distance: 45km / 28mi
Accommodation: Villas D. Dinis
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Day 6: Tavira

Start the day at 9:30 am with a transfer from Lagos to Olhão. Our van meets you at the hotel and we drive for around 2 hours to a serene spot to resume our cycling adventure. Upon arrival, unload the bikes and set off on a delightful cycling excursion to a quaint village renowned for its pottery, immersing yourself in its serene and charming ambiance.

Return to the coastline and savor a refreshing drink by the tranquil lagoon of the Natural Park of Ria Formosa. Cycle alongside this picturesque lagoon, pausing to relish the peaceful surroundings and observe the vibrant birdlife.

Witness local fishermen harvesting clams and razors during low tide, while boats return from their fishing expeditions during high tide. As the day unfolds, venture to Tavira, hailed as the Algarve's most picturesque village.

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Meals: B
Cycling Distance: 35km / 21mi
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Day 7: Vila Real de Santo António

Today experience the bustling energy of lively beaches, with the lagoon always present between the mainland and the coast, accessible via a charming wood boardwalk, a scenic train ride, or a local boat excursion.

Explore the charming village of Cacela-a-Velha, offering stunning views over the lagoon, before venturing inland to Castro Marim. Along the way, delve into the world of organic farming at a biodiverse farm, discovering the fascinating processes behind fig and carob cultivation and the production of local delicacies. Experience the traditional salt production methods at the salt lakes, where we can even indulge in a rejuvenating outdoor salt-mud SPA experience.

As we pedal towards our final destination of Vila Real de Santo António, soak in the unique atmosphere where Spanish becomes the second language, reflecting the close proximity to Spain just across the river. Upon arrival, delight in a final surprise as we visit a local pastry factory, where guided groups can even try their hand at making and savoring delicious pastries firsthand.

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Meals: B
Cycling Distance: 40km / 25mi
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Day 8: Faro

In the late morning, we transfer to Faro for your onward flight.

Meals: B
Accommodation:

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Map

Dates and Prices

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Essential Info

Inclusions

LODGING

All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).

bike

Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.

Luggage Transfer

Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.

meals

Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.

E-bikes

E-bikes are available (subject to availability) on this trip at a surcharge.

Exclusions

Beverages

Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.

Bikes

When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.

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Kross or similar

hybrid

Included in your trip price

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Cube or similar

ebike

Available at a surcharge

Weather

The Algarve region in Portugal offers fantastic cycling opportunities throughout the year due to its mild Mediterranean climate. However, the best time for cycling in the Algarve is generally during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months. During these seasons, temperatures are pleasantly warm without being too hot, and rainfall is relatively low. Additionally, the roads and trails are less crowded compared to the peak tourist season in the summer months. Winter can also be a good time for cycling in the Algarve, especially for those who prefer cooler temperatures, although there may be more rain.

January

Offseason

February

Offseason

March

Offseason

April

Good

May

Best

June

Best

July

Good

August

Mixed

September

Best

October

Best

November

Offseason

December

Offseason

Best

Good

Mixed

Offseason

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