Cycling holidays around the Algarve

Welcome to Silves, one of the most historic towns in the Algarve. Once the capital of the Moors, it impresses with its imposing red sandstone castle and the well-preserved old town with its winding alleyways. Take a stroll along the Arade River or sample the region's famous fig pastries in one of the cozy cafés and get in the mood for your upcoming cycling holidays around the Algarve.

Your first day of cycling takes you through the fertile hinterland of the Algarve. You cycle along quiet paths through lush orange groves and shady cork oak forests. The gentle climbs are rewarded with magnificent views over the hilly landscape. Your destination is Caldas de Monchique, a traditional thermal spa that has been known for centuries for its mineral-rich water. On arrival, you can relax in one of the historic bathhouses or enjoy regional specialties in one of the cosy cafés.

Today you will explore the green heart of the Algarve. Cycle along quiet roads through the Serra de Monchique, past dense forests of eucalyptus trees, chestnut trees and cork oaks. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. In Monchique, the church of São Sebastião and the Igreja Matriz are well worth a visit. Treat yourself to a break and try the regional medronho, a traditional strawberry tree schnapps. With every kilometer, you will feel the transition from the hilly Algarve to the gentler landscapes of the Alentejo. Your destination for the day is Santa Clara-a-Velha, where you can marvel at the idyllic reservoir and the ruins of the D. Maria bridge – a perfect place for a relaxing evening.

Your cycling holidays around the Algarve takes you through the rolling hills of the Alentejo, past olive groves and wide fields. In Santa Clara-a-Velha, you can visit the church of Santa Clara de Assis before making your way to Odemira. Along the way, whitewashed Alentejo houses with blue and ochre accents dominate the landscape. A stop at a traditional village café offers the opportunity for a short break and a chat with the locals. Quiet paths with views of the hills and the River Mira finally lead you to the center of Odemira, where you can end the day in comfort.

On the fourth day of cycling, you reach the west coast of Portugal. Along the River Mira, you cycle through raspberry and sweet potato fields on quiet paths through the Costa Vicentina nature reserve. In Porto das Barcas, you can enjoy the view of the Atlantic and sample fresh seafood. The route continues to Zambujeira do Mar with the chapel of Nossa Senhora do Mar and beautiful beaches. The route leads along the Ribeira de Seixe with beautiful views to the estuary into the sea. Finally, you reach Aljezur, where the castle ruins with fantastic panoramic views and regional sweet potato dishes await you.

Today's route on your cycling holidays around the Algarve takes you through vast dune landscapes and along hidden bays. In Aljezur, it is worth visiting the market, where you can discover regional specialties, or taking a detour to the castle with its impressive view. You then cycle along quiet paths through the Southwest Alentejo Nature Park and the Vicentine coast, where pine and eucalyptus trees line the route. In Carrapateira, you can visit the Maritime and Rural Museum or take a spectacular bike ride along the cliffs. Finally, you will reach Aldeia da Pedralva, a restored village dedicated to sustainable tourism – a place of tranquillity and charm.

On your last stage, you will cycle through the Southwest Alentejo Nature Park and the Vicentine coast with magnificent views of the sea. In Raposeira, you can visit the 16th-century Igreja Matriz church and in Vila do Bispo the baroque Igreja Matriz from the 18th century. A break in a traditional café provides an opportunity for refreshments. The tour continues to Cape São Vicente, where the imposing lighthouse and steep cliffs offer a view of the vast Atlantic Ocean. Once you arrive in Sagres, the historic fortress and the harbor await you, where you can watch the hustle and bustle of the fishermen. An impressive end to your trip!

After a final breakfast, your unforgettable cycling holidays around the Algarve comes to an end. With numerous impressions and memories, you can start your journey home or extend your stay to discover other facets of Portugal.