Crossing the Algarve by bike

The Algarve coastline by bike, a refreshingly different coastal tour

Pedal at your own pace along the coast and inland to discover the secrets of the Algarve, a region located in the south of Portugal, from the Spanish border to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean.

With over 300 days of sunshine a year, the Algarve is one of the sunniest regions in Europe. Cycling in the Algarve means a holiday in the sun, punctuated by pedal strokes under blue skies and daily swims on the country’s most beautiful beaches. And even in winter, the thermometer rarely dips below 15°C in the Algarve, making cycling a pleasure in any season.

The Algarve surprises travellers with its multitude of natural attractions and varied landscapes. In the western part of the Algarve, between Faro and Lagos, the coast stretches for miles along golden sandy beaches and steep cliffs. The beaches of Praia da Marinha near Carvoeiro and Praia do Camilo in Lagos are regularly ranked among the most beautiful in the world.
Flatter and straighter, the eastern part of the Algarve is made up of long beaches and lagoons dotted with islands. Along the way, you discover one of Portugal’s seven natural wonders, the Ria Formosa. With its lagoon and numerous islands, the Ria Formosa appeals to visitors for its biodiversity-rich nature.

As you move away from the coast, a landscape of hills, citrus groves and forests opens up. And what a delight it is to pedal through the scents of eucalyptus and local citrus fruits. Inland, Pego do Inferno is a natural site with 3 waterfalls. They are among the most idyllic in the region. The perfect opportunity to refresh yourself on the way.

In addition to its exceptional natural beauty, the Algarve is also home to a number of typical villages with white houses and terraced roofs. Tavira, where your adventure begins, and Lagos, where it ends, are perfect examples of the region’s Moorish architecture. Some villages, like Silves in the hinterland, are flanked by castles that tell of the Algarve’s rich history. On the coast, fishing villages abound. Olhão, the Algarve’s largest fishing port, is an ideal place to stop. With its narrow streets and whitewashed houses, it’s an attractive little town.

Cycling in the Algarve is also an opportunity to delve into the heart of Portuguese culture and meet the smiling faces of the locals, who introduce you to their delicious traditional cuisine. Largely focused on the sea, Algarve gastronomy gives pride of place to fresh fish and seafood. You can enjoy them grilled over a wood fire or stewed in a typical local pan called a cataplana. It’s a gastronomic experience not to be missed, all the way from small fishing villages to sunny seaside resorts.

At your own pace, this accessible holiday offers a great overview of the Algarve’s treasures. From its coastline adorned with magnificent beaches to the more authentic inland areas, not forgetting the delicious Portuguese cuisine.