Upon arrival at Faro Airport, a Bikesul representative will greet you. After a brief introduction, you will be transferred to your hotel in Tavira. This historic city boasts many remains from past civilisations. You can easily explore the city centre on foot or by bike from your hotel.

Accommodation in Tavira.

Tavira > Vila Real de Santo António > Tavira (67 km, 700m elevation)

Your first day of activity features a circular route through the eastern Algarve. You will explore the region’s inland area, starting in the Serra de Tavira. You will then ride through the Santa Rita forest before finishing along the coast by the Ria Formosa. This is undoubtedly the perfect way to kick off your Algarve gravel adventure.

Accommodation in Tavira 4 Start Hotel

Tavira > Alte (85 km, 1200m elevation)

Today, you will say goodbye to Tavira and begin cycling westward along the Ria Formosa and the coastline until you reach the charming village of Fuzeta.

From this fishing village, you will head north through the Barrocal, noticing a change in both terrain and landscape. After a gradual climb, you will pass through the delightful village of São Brás de Alportel before entering the municipality of Loulé via the Serra do Caldeirão. On your way to the traditional village of Alte, you will also pass through other small and picturesque villages such as Querença, Salir, and Benafim.

Once in Alte, be sure to wander through its narrow cobbled streets and discover the charm of this beautiful village.

Accommodation: Charming countryside B&B

Alte > Monchique (80 km, 1500m elevation)

This day begins with a stunning, easy, and peaceful ride to São Bartolomeu de Messines. On your way to the historic city of Silves, you will enjoy beautiful gravel roads alongside the Funcho and Arade lakes. In Silves, take some time to visit the medieval castle and explore this small city, once the first capital of the Algarve.

Next, you will tackle the Serra de Silves, with its steep climbs and descents. The final part of the day will be more challenging as you make your way up to Monchique.

Accommodation: Caldas de Monchique

Caldas de Monchique > Lagos (70 km, 1200m elevation)

This stage comprises two distinct sections. The first takes you through the Monchique mountain range, beginning with the climb to Fóia, the highest peak in the Algarve at 900 metres above sea level. A long descent will then lead you back to the coastline along excellent gravel roads towards the city of Lagos. Along the way, you will pass through traditional villages such as Marmelete and Bensafrim.

Accommodation: Lagos

Lagos > Sagres (73 km, 900m elevation)

On your final cycling day, you will ride along the Vicentina south coast, arguably one of the best gravel routes in Europe.

Leaving Lagos, you will follow the magnificent coastline towards Burgau, passing by Ponta da Piedade and Praia da Luz. Along the way, you will be amazed by wild beaches, surf spots, and impressive cliffs. Expect stunning scenery and perfect gravel trails overlooking the Atlantic Ocean throughout this first section.

You will then head inland towards the traditional village of Barão de São João, where you will ride fantastic gravel roads through beautiful landscapes on your way to Vila do Bispo and Cape St Vincent.

Before reaching Sagres, you will visit Cabo de São Vicente, the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe, which will undoubtedly be a memorable highlight of the trip. Here, you can visit the lighthouse and the fort perched atop the cliffs.

Accommodation: Sagres

After breakfast, a transfer service will be provided. However, if you're planning to extend your stay, please let us know and we can offer some suggestions.