Algarve’s Best Kept Secrets

Day 1: Arrival in Tavira
Day 2: Tavira Loop, 38 km (+300 m)
Day 3: Tavira – Faro, 50 km (+300 m)
Day 4: Faro – Vilamoura, 31 km (+200 m)
Day 5: Vilamoura – Carvoeiro, 53 km (+600 m)
Day 6: Carvoeiro – Silves, 38 km (+500 m)
Day 7: Silves – Lagos, 49 km (+500 m)
Day 8: Departure

All distances are approximate. The itinerary may change due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather or local authority provisions. Temporary local deviations or detours caused by roadwork may not be reflected in your route book or GPS tracks. Please follow posted directions in such cases.

Day 1: Arrival in Tavira
After your arrival, you will be transferred to your first accommodation, where your guide will introduce you to the journey ahead. During your welcome briefing, you’ll review the upcoming itinerary, key highlights, and complete your bike fitting to ensure a comfortable start to the tour. The rest of the day is yours to explore Tavira at your own pace. Take time to wander through its historic streets and appreciate the blend of Roman, Arab, and Christian influences that shape this charming town.

Accommodation: Vila Galé Tavira (upgrade available)
Alternative hotel: Pousada Convento de Tavira
Transfer: Faro → Tavira (45 min)

Day 2: Tavira Loop, 38 km (+300 m)
Begin your adventure by exploring one of the Algarve’s most remarkable hidden regions. Your day starts with a ride inland through small villages surrounded by orange, almond, and carob trees. As you continue east, the landscape gradually opens toward the coast, revealing the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park — one of Portugal’s Seven Natural Wonders. This lagoon system stretches from Faro to Vila Real de Santo António and is known for its pristine beaches, islands, and rich biodiversity. With the sea breeze at your side and the Ria’s wetlands unfolding around you, enjoy a peaceful and scenic ride through some of the Algarve’s most unforgettable landscapes.

Accommodation: Vila Galé Tavira (upgrade available)
Alternative hotel: Pousada Convento de Tavira
Elevation gain: +300 m

Day 3: Tavira – Faro, 50 km (+300 m)
Today’s ride follows the Ria Formosa, passing through some of the Algarve’s most traditional fishing villages, including Fuzeta and Olhão. After breakfast, begin cycling west through the wetlands and winding waterways of the Ria, an area known for its rich biodiversity and importance within the Natura 2000 Network. As you enter Fuzeta, you’ll see colorful fishing boats, quiet docks, and fishermen repairing nets along the waterfront, a glimpse into local coastal life. Continue toward Olhão, the region’s largest fishing port, where lively markets and renowned seafood restaurants reflect the city’s strong maritime heritage. This stage offers a close look at the simple, traditional rhythms of the Algarve before you arrive in Faro.

Accommodation: 3HB Faro
Alternative hotel: AP Eva Senses
Elevation gain: +300 m

Day 4: Faro – Vilamoura, 31 km (+200 m)
Today’s route showcases the Algarve’s coastal landscapes and diverse natural environments. Begin by cycling through the peaceful Parque Ribeirinho de Faro, a lush riverside area ideal for birdwatching. Continue past Faro’s airport and into the wetlands of Ludo, where the saltpans, pine forests, and eucalyptus groves are home to flocks of pink flamingos and other marine birds. Ride toward Quinta do Lago, one of the region’s best birdwatching spots, before following the scenic wooden pathways of Passadiços de Loulé. As you approach the coast, enjoy the beaches of Praia do Ancão and Praia do Garrão Nascente, then pass through the elegant resort area of Vale do Lobo. Continue along Praia do Almargem and Praia de Quarteira, with their wide sandy stretches and ocean views, before reaching the marina town of Vilamoura.

Accommodation: Tivoli Marina Vilamoura
Alternative hotel: Vila Galé Marina
Elevation gain: +200 m

Day 5: Vilamoura – Carvoeiro, 53 km (+600 m)
Begin your ride at Vilamoura’s marina, where cafés, open promenades, and sleek yachts create a lively coastal atmosphere. Follow the waterfront before heading toward Albufeira, one of the Algarve’s most vibrant seaside towns. Continue to the Miradouro do Pau da Bandeira for sweeping views over golden beaches and turquoise waters, then ride to the Miradouro Porto de Pesca, a viewpoint overlooking the marina and dramatic cliffs. Pedal onward to Lagoa dos Salgados, a tranquil lagoon surrounded by dunes and rich birdlife. The route then leads to Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Rocha, a small cliffside chapel offering panoramic ocean views. Finish your journey near Carvoeiro, a charming village known for its sheltered beaches, coastal scenery, and relaxed atmosphere. This stage blends lively towns, scenic viewpoints, and peaceful natural areas for a truly memorable day.

Accommodation: Tivoli Carvoeiro
Alternative hotel: Hotel Carvoeiro Plaza
Elevation gain: +600 m

Day 6: Carvoeiro – Silves, 38 km (+500 m)
Begin your ride in the seaside town of Carvoeiro, starting at Forte de Nossa Senhora da Encarnação, a historic fort overlooking the rugged coastline. Follow the route along Praia do Carvoeiro, where golden sand meets clear blue water, then climb toward Alto da Praia for wide views over the coast and village below. Continue inland through the peaceful Ferragudo countryside, with quiet roads winding along the Arade River and inviting small pauses to enjoy the local charm. Ride through Estombar and Lagoa, passing cultural landmarks and fertile agricultural areas. The nearby Alvor Lagoon adds a tranquil, scenic highlight to the journey. Your day ends in Silves, an ancient town dominated by its striking red-brick castle and surrounded by the fertile plains and gentle foothills of the Serra de Monchique.

Accommodation: Silves History Guest House (upgrade available)
Alternative hotel: Colina dos Mouros
Elevation gain: +500 m

Day 7: Silves – Lagos, 49 km (+500 m)
Leave Silves and begin your ride toward Ribeira de Odelouca, a peaceful river surrounded by greenery and gentle rolling hills. Follow the quiet riverbanks, enjoying the calm atmosphere and natural sounds along the way. Continue toward the countryside village of Odiáxere, passing olive groves, vineyards, and small farms that highlight the rural character of the Algarve. The terrain is mostly flat here, giving you time to appreciate the whitewashed houses and simple charm of village life. As you approach Lagos, the scenery shifts and the coastline comes into view. Meia Praia welcomes you with its long stretch of golden sand and bright blue water, a perfect spot to pause and enjoy the sea breeze. The stage ends in Lagos, a lively town rich in history, with cobbled streets, dramatic cliffs, sandy coves, and a vibrant marina. It’s a memorable finish to your journey across the Algarve.

Accommodation: Tivoli Lagos
Alternative hotel: Dom Manuel I
Elevation gain: +500 m

Day 8: Departure
Transfer to Faro according to your schedule (1 hour 15 minutes). You may extend your stay or add extra cycling days in the Algarve.

Transfer: Lagos → Faro (1 h 15 min)

Your accommodations during your tour are a delightful mix ranging from a boutique guest house to 4-star and 5-star resorts and establishments. For example, in Faro you stay at the the 5 star 3HB Faro, distinguished for its urban chic style. In Silves, you overnight at the Casa Silves located in the historical center, near the castle. This small stylish guesthouse is siturated at a strategic point of the renowned Via Algarviana

Bicycles

Standard Bicycle

Ghost Hybrid bike

• Tires: Schwalbe Energizer Activ Plus 37-622
• Brakes:Shimano BR-MT200 160 mm Disc
• Frame: SQUARE Trekking AL
• Cassette: Shimano CS-HG400-9 11-34
• Fork: SR Suntour NEX HLO, DS 63 mm
• Stem: GHOST SQUARE Dia. 31.8 mm
• Handlebar: GHOST Low Rizer, 680 mm 31.8 mm
• Crankset: Shimano FC-T4010, 48-36-26
• Saddle: Justek 3050 DRN
• Seatpost: GHOST SP DC1 31.6 mm
• Derailleur:
  Rear: Shimano RD-T4000 9-S
  Front: Shimano Alivio FD-T4000

Electric Bicycle

E-Bike

AEB Classic E-Hybrid Bike

• Aluminum Wave Intra+ frame (45 cm)
• Bosch PowerPack 545 Wh battery (partially integrated, removable)
• Front suspension (RST Volar, tapered)
• 9 speed (Shimano CUES)
• Ergonomic Ergotec Comfort handlebar
• Ergotec Sepia 130 Ahead stem
• Miranda Virage 38 T crankset
• Selle Royal Loire City Gel saddle
• SR Suntour NCX seatpost (27.2 mm)
• Shimano Disc MT200 brakes
• Shimano CS-HG400-9 cassette (11-34 T)
• Schwalbe Marathon E Plus tires 50-622 (front and rear)

Accessories

Included accessories

• Helmet
• Water bottle
• Tool and tube repair kit
• Pump
• Lock
• Handlebar bag
• Rear rack and pannier
• Flat or spd pedals (please specify)

Supplemental accessories

• Baby seat
• One and two luggage Croozer trailer