Algarve’s Best Kept Secrets

Day 1: Tavira
Day 2: Tavira loop, 24 mi. (38 km)
Day 3: Tavira - Faro, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 4: Faro - Vilamoura, 19 mi. (31 km)
Day 5: Vilamoura - Carvoeiro, 33 mi. (53 km
Day 6: Carvoeiro - Silves, 24 mi. (38 km)
Day 7: Silves - Lagos, 29 mi. (47 km)
Day 8: Official end of tour

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: Tavira 
You will be met at Faro Airport by a local representative and transferred to Tavira. Upon arrival at your first hotel, a tour information meeting and bike fitting will have you well prepared for the days ahead.

Sample accommodation: Vila Galé Tavira

Day 2: Tavira loop, 24 mi. (38 km) | +300m elevation gain
Your first day of cycling traverses tranquil and picturesque routes near the Serra Algarvia. Through quaint villages, you follow winding paths through the rustic charm of rural landscapes of groves of fragrant orange trees. "Pego do Inferno" translated as "Hell's Pool" in English, is an enchanting stop on your route that features a cascading waterfall creating an oasis of tranquility amid the verdant landscape. You spend one more night in Tavira.

Sample accommodation: Vila Galé Tavira

Day 3: Tavira - Faro, 31 mi. (50 km) | +300m elevation gain
You begin cycling directly from Tavira along the enchanting Ria Formosa, a distinguished natural park revered as one of the nation's most captivating landscapes. As part of the esteemed Natura 2000 Network, this sanctuary is a haven for avid birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Epic vistas will punctuate your route. The quaint fishing village of Fuzeta is known for the time-honored tradition of crafting exquisite clay pottery.   Local fishermen skillfully mend their nets and unload their bountiful catches at the bustling harbor, a captivating scene that epitomizes the essence of simple, traditional Portuguese living.

Sample accommodation: 3 HB Faro

Day 4: Faro - Vilamoura, 19 mi. (31 km) | +200m elevation
Departing from Faro, you cycle through the city's picturesque riverside park from the bustling city center you venture northward along the gentle undulations of the hills adjacent to the Algarve mountain range. The renowned locale of Ludo is a stop along the route. Situated within the Ria Formosa Natural Park, Ludo stands as a favored destination, renowned for its abundance of wildlife, including the iconic flamingos and various other preserved species. The route leads between land and the lagoon system, traversing a mosaic of habitats, ranging from lush forested areas to expansive salt marshes and saltpans. Vilamoura with the splendor of its beautiful marina is your overnight destination.

Sample accommodation: Tivoli Marina Vilamoura

Day 5: Vilamoura - Carvoeiro, 33 mi. (53 km) | +600m elevation gain
Prepare to encounter one of the Algarve's renowned coastal treasures as you cycle toward the illustrious "Germans' Beach" in Albufeira's vibrant cityscape with its lively ambiance and sun-drenched shores. You will pass by the Salgados Lagoon, a veritable haven for bird enthusiasts.

Your day's adventure draws to a close in the charming coastal enclave of Carvoeiro. Vale Covo Beach, a mere stone's throw from your accommodations, is the perfect retreat for further relaxation and seaside exploration.

Sample accommodation: Tivoli Carvoeiro

Day 6: Carvoeiro - Silves, 24 mi. (38 km) | +400m elevation gain
Today you leave the coastal landscapes to cycle the verdant interior of the Algarve. Your route follows the meandering path of the Arade River towards the storied Moorish enclave of Silves, passing through two quaint towns nestled amidst the countryside: Estômbar and Lagoa, both excellent places for lunch.

Sample accommodation: Silves History Guest House

Day 7: Silves - Lagos, 29 mi. (47 km) | +500m elevation gain
Once you arrive at your destination, consider visiting the Ribeira do Arade Dam, just a few kilometers from your lodging. This serene spot offers a tranquil retreat, perfect for unwinding amidst the natural splendor of the Algarve's interior.

On your final cycling day, you head south towards the center of the historic city of Silves, where a visit to the iconic Silves Castle presents an enriching start to the day's itinerary. Then leaving Silves behind, you cycle to the charming city of Odiáxere known for its gastronomic delights. As you approach the coastline, the sprawling expanse of Meia Praia unfolds before you, with its seemingly endless stretch of golden sands bordering the tranquil bay.  The ancient city of Lagos is your final destination.  Set aside some time to wander through the winding streets of the downtown area, where centuries-old architecture and lively squares await exploration. Conclude your day with a memorable dining experience, sampling the diverse culinary offerings that reflect the unique fusion of flavors found in this coastal enclave.

Sample accommodation: Tivoli Lagos

Day 8: Official end of tour
You tour ends at official checkout time.

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

A customized unisex Ghost Hybrid Touring bike

• Aluminium frame
• Front suspension
• Flat handlebar
• Comfort Saddle
• Water bottle cage
• 24 speed high quality Shimano components
• Ergonomic non-slip rubber handles
• Flat pedal
• Shimano hydraulic brakes
• Rear rack
• Schwalbe Energizer Active Plus tires

Electric Bicycle

A customized unisex Ghost Electric Hybrid Touring bike

• Aluminium frame
• Front suspension
• Yamaha or Bosch Power Tube 500Wh
• Flat handlebar
• Comfort Saddle
• Water bottle cage
• Quality Shimano components
• Ergonomic non-slip rubber handles
• Flat pedal
• Tektro disc brakes
• Rear rack
• Schwalbe Energizer Active Plus tires

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