Lagos, Portugal. Great views from the bike of the gorgeous blue waters against towering cliffs. Photo via Wikimedia Commons:Ricard12

Algarve, A Coastline of Fortresses

Portugal Bike & Hotel Tours

A bike tour along the varied coastlines of the Algarve

Tour Type

Guided/Self Guided
Skill Level

Moderate–Difficult
Length

8 days
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Prices from

€870 Rates

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Overview
Itinerary
Accommodation
Inclusions
Dates & Pricing
Extra Info
Photos
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Overview

This bike tour in Portugal begins in the wild rugged area of Southwest Alentejo and Costa Vicentina National Park on Portugal's western coast and continues along the popular southern coast, the true Algarve, all the way to the border with Spain. When the Algarve was conquered by the Muslims over a thousand years ago, their influence was felt everywhere. Castles were built to defend against invaders of all sorts. Housing and public buildings were built in a style more familiar to North Africa. Citrus trees, almonds, and other plants were introduced to the area. The dramatic coastline of the Algarve still bears visible traces of this Moorish past. Days are varied with museum visits, fortresses, jagged cliffs, and the crystal blue waters enticing from afar. The pristine beaches attract sun worshippers from all over but you will discover that even in the more touristy areas, secluded beaches can still be found. Highlights include but are not limited to the picturesque and historical town centers, the wild scenery of the western coast of the Southwest Alentejo and Costa Vicentina National Park, wonderful cycling, and tasty picnics on exotic beaches with beautiful sands, sea, and cliffs.
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Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Faro or Lisbon Airport
Day 2: Odeceixe - Aljezur, 20 mi. (32 km)
Day 3: Aljezur - Pedralva, 27 mi. (44 km)
Day 4: Pedralva - Sagres, 26 mi. (41 km)
Day 5: Sagres - Lagos, 27 mi. (43 km)
Day 6: Lagos - Tavira, 19 mi. (30 km)
Day 7: Tavira - Vila Real de St. Antonio, 23 mi. (37 km)
Day 8: Departure
Day 1: Arrival at Faro or Lisbon Airport
Transfer to Odeceixe. If you arrive early enough, and you fly to Faro, a vist to the historic center of Faro is recommended! Upon arrival in Odeceixe, there will be time to relax in the little square. Odeceixe is a tranquil town of whitewash built on a hill opposite the broad valley of the Odeceixe River, complete with a windmill overlooking it all. Bikes will be available and you can ride to the beach which is classified as one of the seven wonder beaches of Portugal.
Day 2: Odeceixe - Aljezur, 20 mi. (32 km)
If you were not able to visit the beach on your arrival day, you will have the opportunity this morning. The route leads along the lush river valley to the broad sandy bay framed by cliffs. This is one of the most sheltered beaches on the coast, renowned for surfing. Leaving the beach, your guide will lead you through farmland to another wonderful beach. During a break for a cool drink, you can watch one of the surfing schools in action or swim. Final destination today is the village of Aljezur one of the last villages to be conquered by the moors. There are a local artist shop and gallery as well as a local museum and castle that deserve a visit. (350 meters total ascent)
Day 3: Aljezur - Pedralva, 27 mi. (44 km)
The day begins with a challenge and climb to the Castle of Aljezur after which you will be rewarded by the beautiful views over the village with its lovely vegetable gardens. Then, it is off to the coast again, visiting a fortress with stunning views over the cliffs and the "needle rock", an imposing rock standing in the middle of the ocean. The low-key village of Carrapateira is on the itinerary with its stunning views and rough coastlines. The fisherman's museum here explores the village's sometimes dangerous relationship with the sea. Overnight in Pedralva, a small, relaxing oasis where time has slowed. (650 meters total ascent)
Day 4: Pedralva - Sagres, 26 mi. (41 km)
First, on the agenda today is the Church of Vila Do Bispo with impressive cliff views. The day continues, heading toward the sea and then cycling to the Cape of S. Vicente, the most south western point of Europe. From there on, the sea is your constant companion. A visit to the Fortress of Sagres is planned. Originally built in the 15th century, it was rebuilt in 1793. Inside the fortress is a former monastery founded in the 16th century and a 14th-century chapel, built on what is traditionally said to be the site of São Vincente's grave. An impressive, yet puzzling sight, is also the 39 m-diameter wind compass (“Wind Rose”)! Overnight in Sagres, which during Roman times, was believed to be the most westerly part of the world and it was thought that the setting sun off the point made the waters of the ocean boil. (500 meters total ascent)
Day 5: Sagres - Lagos, 27 mi. (43 km)
Today the route goes along the southern coastline, in and out to wild beaches. There will be several opportunities for ocean swims and breaks for refreshments. The ocean here is warmer than in the west coast and the waters are more tranquil. The cliffs change color, from the black schist to the orange sandstone. The villages are bigger, more touristic, with many cafés, restaurants, and shopping opportunities. The undulating route leads past a couple of fortresses with fantastic views on narrow secondary roads. Arriving in Lagos, we pass by the famous cliffs from where we can see beautiful rock islands in which erosion formed arches, caves, and different shapes. Lagos is a lively coastal city with charming architecture. Visit the local museum, the astonishing church and enjoy the cosmopolitan atmosphere. (720 meters total ascent)
Day 6: Lagos - Tavira, 19 mi. (30 km)
The day starts with a van transferalong the coast, the salt production lakes, and the farmland. Upon arrival to the destination, bikes are unloaded and the cycling itinerary begins with a stop at a quiet and charming village famous for its pottery. Then, it is back to the coast and a break by the lagoon of the Natural Park of Ria Formosa. This park is one of the most amazing places of the Algarve, not only for its variety of landscapes but also because of its unique location. Recently elected as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal, it is one of three protected areas. The unique coastal lagoon here is constantly changing due to the continuous movement of winds, currents and tides. You will cycle along this lagoon and stop to enjoy the quietness and watch the bird life. It will not be unusual to see fishermen catching clams, razors in the low tide, and boats arriving from a fishing day in high tide. Tavira is probably the prettiest village of the Algarve. Its architecture is charming and the atmosphere relaxing. Save time to explore. It’s also a good place to buy some arts and crafts at the local association. (220 meters total ascent)
Day 7: Tavira - Vila Real de St. Antonio, 23 mi. (37km)
From Tavira, you cycle through the Natural Park again, passing several beach and golf resorts. Beaches here are busy and lively and are reached by walking across a wooden bridge or by taking a small charming train or boat. Between the mainland and the beach, there is always the lagoon. There will be a stop at the charming Cacela-a-velha overlooking the sea. This is a small town by Algarve standards and still allows visitors to experience nature and local culture unspoiled by mass tourism. The route leads inland to Castro Marin . On the way, we will visit a biological farm and learn about the fig and carob trees, and the local produce that are made from their fruits. In this farm the motto is “waste nothing”, and everything the tree produces is used. After you will visit the salines and learn about this local production. It is time to cycle to the final destination, Vila Real de Santo António, where the second language is Spanish! All restaurants have the menus in Spanish as this is the main tourism market. After all, Spain it’s just across the river! Upon arrival, you will have the opportunity to visit a local pastry factory! On guided tours, besides visiting, you will have the chance to make some pastries and, of course, taste them! (250 meters total ascent)
Day 8: Departure

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Accommodation

Two “pousadas”, one farmhouse/village inn, two 4 hotels, one 3 , and one simple guest house, all with pools except the guest house
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Self Guided
- Hotel accommodations for 7 nights
- Breakfast
- Luggage transfer
- Van transfer from Lagos to Olhão on Day 6
- Bicycle rental with rear bag for light, odometer, and map holder
- 24 hour emergency contact
- Cell phone
- Tourist taxes
- GPS rental
- Supported
- Hotel accommodations for 7 nights
- Breakfast
- Luggage transfer
- Bicycle rental with rear bag for light cargo, helmet, odometer, and map holder
- 24 hour emergency contact
- Tourist taxes
- Tour guide that drives the support vehicle
- Transfer from Faro airport to Odeceixe
- Transfer on private bus from Vila Real de Santo António to Faro airport
- Four picnic lunches and two lunches at restaurants
- Five dinners with wine
- 1 liqueur tasting
- Entrance fee at Fortress of Sagres, Municipal Museum in Aljezur, and the Fisherman’s museum
- Tourist taxes
- Cycling Jersey
- Guided
- Everything listed under van supported tour in addition to a tour guide that cycles with the group
What’s Not Included
- Self guided
- Lunches and dinners
- Transfer from Lisbon Airport (possible for supplement)
- Entrance fees
- Bicycle protection
- Travel Insurance
- Guided
- Two dinners
- Bicycle protection
- Travel Insurance
Dates & Pricing
Dates

Guided: July 15, August 19, September 16, September 23, and October 21, 2017
Van supported: August 5, 2017
Self Guided: Arrival possible every Saturday for groups of two or more people (July and August is not recommended as it is very hot!). Departures are possible on other days of the week for a supplement.
Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- † Currency exchange rate set 90 days before travel
- Please see our FAQ
Pricing

Self Guided Tour
Minimum of 2 participants: $ 1895 £ 986 $ 1,821 € 1110 Ft 433908 kr 163452 ₪ 4115 ¥ 208255 Mex$ 23394 NZ$ 2283 kr 12750 zł 4852 S$ 1684 kr 12356 CHF 1042 $ 1,312
4 or more participants: $ 1486 £ 773 $ 1,427 € 870 Ft 340090 kr 128111 ₪ 3226 ¥ 163227 Mex$ 18336 NZ$ 1789 kr 9994 zł 3803 S$ 1320 kr 9685 CHF 817 $ 1,028
Single supplement: $ 482 £ 251 $ 463 € 282 Ft 110236 kr 41526 ₪ 1046 ¥ 52908 Mex$ 5943 NZ$ 580 kr 3239 zł 1233 S$ 428 kr 3139 CHF 265 $ 333
Guided Tour - Group Dates: $ 3791 £ 1973 $ 3,642 € 2220 Ft 867817 kr 326904 ₪ 8231 ¥ 416511 Mex$ 46788 NZ$ 4565 kr 25501 zł 9703 S$ 3368 kr 24713 CHF 2084 $ 2,624
Single supplement: $ 482 £ 251 $ 463 € 282 Ft 110236 kr 41526 ₪ 1046 ¥ 52908 Mex$ 5943 NZ$ 580 kr 3239 zł 1233 S$ 428 kr 3139 CHF 265 $ 333
Guided Tour - Private departure dates
Minimum of 2 participants: $ 4995 £ 2599 $ 4,799 € 2925 Ft 1143407 kr 430719 ₪ 10845 ¥ 548781 Mex$ 61646 NZ$ 6015 kr 33599 zł 12784 S$ 4437 kr 32561 CHF 2746 $ 3,458
Minimum of 4: $ 4047 £ 2106 $ 3,888 € 2370 Ft 926453 kr 348993 ₪ 8787 ¥ 444654 Mex$ 49949 NZ$ 4874 kr 27224 zł 10359 S$ 3595 kr 26382 CHF 2225 $ 2,802
Single supplement: $ 482 £ 251 $ 463 € 282 Ft 110236 kr 41526 ₪ 1046 ¥ 52908 Mex$ 5943 NZ$ 580 kr 3239 zł 1233 S$ 428 kr 3139 CHF 265 $ 333
Van Supported*
Minimum of 2 participants: $ 4030 £ 2097 $ 3,872 € 2360 Ft 922544 kr 347520 ₪ 8750 ¥ 442777 Mex$ 49738 NZ$ 4853 kr 27109 zł 10315 S$ 3580 kr 26271 CHF 2215 $ 2,790
Minimum of 4: $ 2852 £ 1484 $ 2,740 € 1670 Ft 652817 kr 245915 ₪ 6192 ¥ 313321 Mex$ 35196 NZ$ 3434 kr 19183 zł 7299 S$ 2533 kr 18590 CHF 1568 $ 1,974
Single supplement: $ 482 £ 251 $ 463 € 282 Ft 110236 kr 41526 ₪ 1046 ¥ 52908 Mex$ 5943 NZ$ 580 kr 3239 zł 1233 S$ 428 kr 3139 CHF 265 $ 333
*Guide does not cycle with the group but drives the support vehicle and is available for assistance
Season Surcharges for Guided, Self Guided, and Van Supported Tours
June 1 to July 14: $ 150 £ 78 $ 144 € 88 Ft 34400 kr 12958 ₪ 326 ¥ 16510 Mex$ 1855 NZ$ 181 kr 1011 zł 385 S$ 133 kr 980 CHF 83 $ 104
Season single supplement: $ 777 £ 404 $ 746 € 455 Ft 177863 kr 67001 ₪ 1687 ¥ 85366 Mex$ 9589 NZ$ 936 kr 5227 zł 1989 S$ 690 kr 5065 CHF 427 $ 538
July 15 to August 31 and Easter: $ 336 £ 175 $ 323 € 197 Ft 77009 kr 29009 ₪ 730 ¥ 36961 Mex$ 4152 NZ$ 405 kr 2263 zł 861 S$ 299 kr 2193 CHF 185 $ 233
Season single supplement: $ 1180 £ 614 $ 1,134 € 691 Ft 270118 kr 101753 ₪ 2562 ¥ 129644 Mex$ 14563 NZ$ 1421 kr 7937 zł 3020 S$ 1048 kr 7692 CHF 649 $ 817
September 1 to September 15: $ 266 £ 139 $ 256 € 156 Ft 60982 kr 22972 ₪ 578 ¥ 29268 Mex$ 3288 NZ$ 321 kr 1792 zł 682 S$ 237 kr 1737 CHF 146 $ 184
Season single supplement: $ 1009 £ 525 $ 970 € 591 Ft 231027 kr 87027 ₪ 2191 ¥ 110882 Mex$ 12456 NZ$ 1215 kr 6789 zł 2583 S$ 896 kr 6579 CHF 555 $ 699
Extra Options

Electric bicycle rental: $ 171 £ 89 $ 164 € 100 Ft 39091 kr 14725 ₪ 371 ¥ 18762 Mex$ 2108 NZ$ 206 kr 1149 zł 437 S$ 152 kr 1113 CHF 94 $ 118
TRANSFERS
Faro airport to Odeceixe:
Minimum of 2 participants: $ 155 £ 81 $ 149 € 91 Ft 35573 kr 13400 ₪ 337 ¥ 17073 Mex$ 1918 NZ$ 187 kr 1045 zł 398 S$ 138 kr 1013 CHF 85 $ 108
4 or more participants: $ 97 £ 51 $ 94 € 57 Ft 22282 kr 8393 ₪ 211 ¥ 10694 Mex$ 1201 NZ$ 117 kr 655 zł 249 S$ 86 kr 635 CHF 54 $ 67
Vila Real St António to Faro airport:
Minimum of 2 participants: $ 111 £ 58 $ 107 € 65 Ft 25409 kr 9572 ₪ 241 ¥ 12195 Mex$ 1370 NZ$ 134 kr 747 zł 284 S$ 99 kr 724 CHF 61 $ 77
4 or more participants: $ 73 £ 38 $ 71 € 43 Ft 16809 kr 6332 ₪ 159 ¥ 8068 Mex$ 906 NZ$ 88 kr 494 zł 188 S$ 65 kr 479 CHF 40 $ 51
Lisbon airport to Odeceixe:
Minimum of 2 participants: $ 225 £ 117 $ 217 € 132 Ft 51600 kr 19438 ₪ 489 ¥ 24766 Mex$ 2782 NZ$ 271 kr 1516 zł 577 S$ 200 kr 1469 CHF 124 $ 156
4 or more participants: $ 140 £ 73 $ 135 € 82 Ft 32054 kr 12075 ₪ 304 ¥ 15385 Mex$ 1728 NZ$ 169 kr 942 zł 358 S$ 124 kr 913 CHF 77 $ 97
Vila Real St António to Lisbon airport:
Minimum of 2 participants: $ 254 £ 132 $ 244 € 149 Ft 58245 kr 21941 ₪ 552 ¥ 27955 Mex$ 3140 NZ$ 306 kr 1712 zł 651 S$ 226 kr 1659 CHF 140 $ 176
4 or more participants: $ 186 £ 97 $ 179 € 109 Ft 42609 kr 16051 ₪ 404 ¥ 20450 Mex$ 2297 NZ$ 224 kr 1252 zł 476 S$ 165 kr 1213 CHF 102 $ 129
Guided tour is possible for 2 people but for an additional fee.
Special tour dates possible on request.
Extra Info

Skill Level — Moderate–Difficult
This is a moderate to difficult self-guided or guided tour that is quite hilly. Climbs range from 300 to 650 meters. There is a support vehicle throughout the tour. Route is about 30% dirt roads as the asphalt roads are too busy.
Airport Info
Fly to Lisbon or Faro
Local Travel
Transfer to hotel
Climate
Please check local conditions before your arrival. Average high/low temperatures in degrees F for the region are: May, 65°/56° and September, 71°/62°
Extra Stay
Always recommended!
Tour Operator

Tour Operator

This tour is run by Portugal Best Cycling.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.
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