algarve1

Self-guided Algarve Bike Tour

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 plus

Level

easy

Avg. dist. cycled

45km or 28mi

Cycling Days

6

Fly-In

Faro

Fly-Out

Faro

Group size

Min. 2, Max. 12

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 take a group 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.

Road Surface: 68% paved, 32% on easy-rolling dirt paths along water channels

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Meals: B
Cycling Distance: 35km / 21mi
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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.

Road Surface: 28% paved, 72% easy-rolling dirt paths. We ride over a few dried-up river beds too on this day.

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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.

Road Surface: 50% paved, 50% easy-rolling dirt paths

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Meals: B
Cycling Distance: 45km / 28mi
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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.

Road Surface: 86% paved, 14% easy-rolling dirt paths. There's also a short, but steep climb today.

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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.

Road Surface: 78% paved, 22% easy-rolling dirt paths.

Day 6_Olhão to Tavira_Portugal.png

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.

Road Surface: 83% paved, 17% easy-rolling dirt paths.

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

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

Meals: B
Accommodation:

Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.

Map

Dates and Prices

Members get an estimated 10% off when booking at least 6 months in advance.

$75/yearLearn more

Single Supplement

From US $600

E-Bike Upgrade

From US $135



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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.

Airport pickup and drop

Enjoy a hassle-free start and finish to your journey.

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.

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

What to Expect

We want you to have a fantastic experience on your tour, so we aim to be upfront about what to expect along the way. Here are key details to keep in mind:

A self-guided bike tour offers the freedom to explore at your own pace, but it also requires some preparation. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, here’s what you can expect:

Basic Bike Maintenance: While we provide well-maintained bikes, you’ll need to handle minor repairs, such as fixing a flat tire or adjusting the brakes. We suggest learning basic repair skills and carrying tools like a multi-tool.

Navigation: You’ll be in charge of navigating the route using provided maps, route notes, or GPS. Confidence in following directions is key, and it's important to be able to correct your path if you stray from the route.

Route Difficulty & Fitness: Our tours cater to various fitness levels, but it’s important to choose a route that matches your ability. Be ready for the distances and terrain outlined in your itinerary.

Safety First: Wearing a helmet is essential, and obeying local traffic rules is crucial. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in new or remote areas.

Luggage Transfers: We take care of transporting your luggage from one accommodation to the next, so you can focus on the ride. Simply drop off your bags at the designated time each morning, and they’ll be waiting for you at your next stop.

Arrival & Departure Details

Arrival Details

Arrive at the Faro International Airport. Our team will meet you at the airport for a group transfer and we begin the tour with a transfer to Odeciexe.

Departure Details

The cycling ends at Vila Real de Santo Antonio, and we have a group transfer to Faro on Day 8. The journey takes a little over an hour. Since nothing else is planned for day 8, you are free to depart according to your plans.

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

Mixed

April

Good

May

Best

June

Best

July

Good

August

Mixed

September

Best

October

Best

November

Good

December

Offseason

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:

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 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.

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

This tour includes both paved and unpaved routes. The specific ratio for each day is outlined in the detailed itinerary. Please refer to it for more information.

We use Kross Evado 6 or similar hybrid bikes for this tour. These bikes come with 27-speed Shimano gears and hydraulic disc brakes.

We use Cube One 400 touring hybrid e-bikes for this tour. These are 9-speed bikes with Shimano gears and hydraulic disc brakes. The frame is Aluminum Superlite and they weigh between 23 to 24 kgs (50.5 to 53 lbs). They come with Bosch PowerPack 400 batteries.

We provide an app-based navigation system that can also be used offline. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we will share the login details ahead of your trip. Since the app works offline, it helps conserve your phone's battery during use.

For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. 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.

We provide 24/7 emergency support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our 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.

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.

For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.

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