Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Self-Guided Coastal Algarve Bike Tour
This week long cycling trip along Portugal’s Algarve Coast is the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and coastal charm. Over six cycling stages, you’ll pedal around 266 kilometers (165 miles) from Sagres, the southwestern tip of Europe, to Vila Real de Santo António near the Spanish border. The route follows quiet roads and scenic paths, passing golden beaches, fishing villages, cliffs, and the lagoons of Ria Formosa Natural Park.
Most of the terrain is flat with a few gentle climbs, making it ideal for leisure cyclists who enjoy exploring at an easy pace. Comfortable hotels, luggage transfers, and daily breakfasts keep things stress-free, while the sea breeze and sunshine make every ride a joy. You can choose to upgrade to an e-bike or add dinners for extra comfort. It’s a wonderful way to soak in the Algarve’s beauty, local culture, and laid-back Mediterranean vibe on two wheels.
Self-Guided
Casual+ hotels
Sagres
Tavira
easy to moderate
50 km / 31 mi
6
Min. 2, Max. 12
Faro Airport (FAO)
Faro Airport (FAO)
Highlights

Ride the Algarve Coast from West to East
Cycle the entire southern coastline of Portugal, from the rugged cliffs of Sagres to the tranquil riverside town of Vila Real de Santo António. Enjoy ever-changing views of beaches, cliffs, and seaside villages.

Authentic Algarve Cuisine
Savor delicious local dishes, from fresh grilled sardines and seafood stews to regional sweets made with almonds and figs. Every meal reflects the Algarve’s coastal traditions.

Discover Charming Coastal Towns
Stop in vibrant towns such as Lagos, Albufeira, and Tavira. Wander through old streets, visit local markets, and experience the region’s mix of culture and seaside charm.

Explore Ria Formosa Natural Park
Pedal through one of Portugal’s most beautiful protected areas, home to lagoons, salt pans, and migratory birds like flamingos and herons. The peaceful flat paths here are perfect for relaxed cycling.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | Casual+ Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Sagres | Memmo Baleeira Hotel (4 Star) | B | ||
| DAY 2 | Lagos | Hotel Marina Rio (4 star) | B | 51 km / 32 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Portimão | Jupiter Algarve Hotel (4 star) | B | 30 km / 19 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Albufeira | Hotel Vila Galé Cerro Alagoa (4 star) | B | 54 km / 34 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Faro | AP Eva senses (4 star) | B | 51 km / 32 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Tavira | Hotel Vila Galé Tavira (4 star) | B | 44 km / 27 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Tavira | Hotel Vila Galé Tavira (4 star) | B | 69 km / 43 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Sagres
Your cycling adventure begins in the peaceful coastal village of Sagres, a place rich in history and natural beauty. A group transfer from the Faro airport to Sagres is included.
After arriving, take time to explore this charming spot where the land meets the vast Atlantic Ocean. Wander around the ruins of the 16th-century Baleeira Fort and visit the impressive Sagres Fortress, which once guided explorers setting out to sea.
The nearby Mareta Beach is perfect for a stroll or a quiet moment by the waves. Sagres has a relaxed atmosphere, with cozy cafés and scenic viewpoints where you can unwind and prepare for the journey ahead. If you arrive early, enjoy the sunset from Cape St. Vincent, the southwestern tip of Europe, where the cliffs glow golden in the evening light. It’s the ideal start to a week of cycling, culture, and unforgettable coastal scenery.

Day 2: Lagos
Begin your ride at Cape St. Vincent, the most southwestern point of Europe, where steep cliffs rise dramatically above the Atlantic. Enjoy the ocean views before cycling through quiet roads and charming villages like Vila do Bispo and Raposeira. Stop for coffee in a local café or explore small historic churches along the way.
The route winds through green hills, pine forests, and fishing villages such as Salema and Burgau, where you can pause for a swim. Continue to Praia da Luz and Ponta da Piedade, where golden cliffs and turquoise waters make for incredible views. Finish in the lively town of Lagos, full of coastal charm, history, and great food.
Paved: 85% Unpaved: 12% Cycle path: 3%


Day 3: Portimão
Start your morning exploring Lagos, known for its role in the Portuguese Age of Discoveries. Cycle past Meia Praia beach and along quiet paths beside calm waters and aquaculture fields. Watch locals collecting clams and cockles as you ride toward Odiáxere.
Continue to Alvor, a lovely fishing village with cobbled streets and cozy restaurants serving fresh seafood. The Alvor estuary offers beautiful views and a perfect place to rest. The final stretch takes you past Praia do Vau and along the coast toward Praia da Rocha, one of the Algarve’s most famous beaches. Relax by the sea or stroll through Portimão’s lively riverfront before calling it a day.
Paved: 82% Unpaved: 14% Cycle path: 4%


Day 4: Albufeira
Follow the Arade River on a pleasant bike path out of Portimão and visit Ferragudo, a fishing village full of character and sea views. Continue along quiet countryside roads lined with olive, orange, and fig trees. Stop in Carvoeiro to admire the rock formations of Algar Seco and the ocean vistas at Senhora da Rocha.
Pass through Armação de Pêra, where sandy beaches and seaside cafés invite a short break. Ride through the bird filled Salgados Lagoon before reaching Albufeira, famous for its whitewashed houses, winding streets, and vibrant old town. It’s a day full of variety, from peaceful countryside to sparkling coastline.
Paved: 73% Unpaved: 3% Cycle path: 24%


Day 5: Faro
Enjoy a day filled with coastal scenery and nature. Ride past Olhos de Água and Falésia Beach, where pine cliffs meet golden sand. Continue through Vilamoura to visit Roman ruins and its elegant marina lined with yachts. In Quarteira, explore the bustling fish market before following quiet roads and boardwalks through the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
Spot flamingos, herons, and other birds as you ride along the lagoon’s edge. The route finishes in Faro, the Algarve’s historic capital, where cobblestone streets, old city walls, and a marina create a charming evening setting.
Road: 36% Offroad: 33% Cycle path: 31%


Day 6: Tavira
Start with a gentle ride through Faro’s old town and follow the path alongside the Ria Formosa lagoon. The scenery shifts between salt pans, small fishing towns, and calm coastal trails. Stop in Olhão to visit its lively market and watch boats preparing for sea. Continue through peaceful paths surrounded by olive trees, pines, and cactus, with birdlife all around.
Visit Fuseta for a swim or a coffee by the beach before cycling toward Tavira. This lovely town, with its Roman bridge, tiled buildings, and quiet riverside cafés, offers the perfect place to unwind and soak up authentic Algarve charm.
Road: 46% Offroad: 22% Cycle path: 32%


Day 7: Tavira
Start your morning in Tavira, one of the Algarve’s prettiest towns, then follow the coast through the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Pass small fishing villages and historic spots like Cacela Velha, where white houses overlook turquoise waters. Enjoy breaks at beaches such as Manta Rota and Praia Verde for a swim or a snack.
Continue through pine forests and dunes to reach Vila Real de Santo António, a charming town on the Guadiana River that marks Portugal’s border with Spain. You can return to Tavira by train or cycle back through farmland and coastal paths, ending your tour with a relaxed evening in this beautiful town.
Road: 71% Offroad: 15% Cycle path: 14%


Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, take some time to enjoy a quiet morning in Tavira. A group transfer back to Faro will be arranged.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Accommodation
Each hotel has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.

Memmo Baleeira Hotel
A stylish seaside hotel overlooking the Atlantic, Memmo Baleeira combines modern design with calm ocean views. Guests enjoy a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and bike-friendly facilities. Rooms feature minimalist décor and balconies facing the sea or garden. The on-site restaurant serves fresh regional dishes, while the location near Cape St. Vincent makes it perfect for exploring Sagres’ dramatic coastline.

Hotel Marina Rio
Set beside the Lagos Marina, this modern hotel offers bright, comfortable rooms with balconies overlooking the boats or town. It features a rooftop pool with panoramic views, a cozy bar, and a hearty buffet breakfast. Just a short walk from Lagos’ old town and beaches, Marina Rio blends convenience with comfort, making it an ideal stop for cyclists exploring the western Algarve.

Jupiter Algarve Hotel
Located on the famous Praia da Rocha beachfront, Jupiter Algarve Hotel is known for its lively atmosphere and elegant décor. The hotel offers a spa, fitness center, and outdoor pool with sea views. Rooms are soundproofed and stylish, ensuring restful nights after a day’s ride. Guests enjoy a rich breakfast buffet and easy access to the beach promenade and Portimão’s vibrant dining scene.

Hotel Vila Galé Cerro Alagoa
A centrally located hotel between Albufeira’s old town and the beach, Vila Galé Cerro Alagoa offers spacious rooms and excellent leisure facilities. Cyclists appreciate its comfortable beds, secure bike storage, and recovery-friendly spa with sauna and indoor pool. The large outdoor pool, buffet restaurant, and friendly staff make it a relaxing base to unwind after cycling through the Algarve coast.

AP Eva senses
Overlooking Faro Marina, Hotel EVA offers stylish accommodation in the city center with scenic views of the Ria Formosa lagoon. Facilities include a rooftop pool, wellness area, and panoramic restaurant serving local cuisine. Rooms are comfortable and quiet, ideal for resting before or after a day’s ride. Its proximity to shops, cafés, and the old town makes it a perfect urban stop on the tour.

Hotel Vila Galé Tavira
Inspired by Moorish architecture, Vila Galé Tavira combines elegance with comfort in the heart of this historic town. Guests enjoy a spacious pool area, spa, and traditional Portuguese restaurant. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore Tavira’s cobbled streets, Roman bridge, and riverside cafés. With warm service and relaxing ambiance, it’s a fitting finale for the Algarve cycling adventure.
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Single Supplement
From US $1,100
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $190
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
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.
Airport pickup
Enjoy a hassle-free group airport pickup to start your journey. Available only on the tour start date.
Airport drop
Enjoy a hassle-free group airport drop to finish your journey. Available only on the tour end date.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
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.

KTM Life 1964 or Similar or similar
Included in your trip price

Felt Nine 60 or Similar or similar
Included in your trip price

Swift Gravel Bike or Similar or similar
Included in your trip price

Winora Sinus Tria N7f Eco or Similar or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Your cycling adventure begins in the peaceful coastal village of Sagres. A group transfer from the Faro airport to Sagres is included.
Estimated Travel Time: Around 1 hour 45 minutes by car.
Departure
Your tour ends in Vila Real de Santo António, a picturesque border town beside the Guadiana River. The nearest airport is again Faro International Airport (FAO), approximately 65 km (40 miles) away.
A group transfer to the Faro airport is included.
Weather
The Algarve enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, making it one of Europe’s best year-round cycling destinations. The most pleasant months are March to June and September to early November, when daytime temperatures range from 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F) with clear skies and light coastal breezes. Summer months like July and August can get quite hot, reaching 30°C (86°F) or more, especially inland, while winter months from December to February are cooler at 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F) with a chance of rain. Spring and autumn offer the perfect balance of sunshine, comfort, and scenic coastal rides.
January
Mixed
February
Mixed
March
Good
April
Best
May
Best
June
Best
July
Mixed
August
Mixed
September
Best
October
Best
November
Good
December
Mixed
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Is proof of travel insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.
Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.
To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.
We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour.
Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.
For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.
For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.
We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
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