​​​​​​​

If you could combine the best of the French Alps and Mallorca… minus the crowds… you’d be in cycling heaven! And that’s the Algarve in a nutshell. A place where cycling pros and hardcore enthusiasts can ride out into the mountains and crush it, while leisurely riders can stretch their legs, breathe in and enjoy some of the best landscapes in Europe.

​​​​​​​

So it’s no surprise you’ll find a full itinerary here, from pro tour events to amateur challenges…and every which way to explore the region at your own pace.​​​​​​​

If you could combine the best of the French Alps and Mallorca… minus the crowds… you’d be in cycling heaven! And that’s the Algarve in a nutshell. A place where cycling pros and hardcore enthusiasts can ride out into the mountains and crush it, while leisurely riders can stretch their legs, breathe in and enjoy some of the best landscapes in Europe.

So it’s no surprise you’ll find a full itinerary here, from pro tour events to amateur challenges…and every which way to explore the region at your own pace.

​​​​​​​

If you could combine the best of the French Alps and Mallorca… minus the crowds… you’d be in cycling heaven! And that’s the Algarve in a nutshell. A place where cycling pros and hardcore enthusiasts can ride out into the mountains and crush it, while leisurely riders can stretch their legs, breathe in and enjoy some of the best landscapes in Europe.

​​​​​​​

So it’s no surprise you’ll find a full itinerary here, from pro tour events to amateur challenges…and every which way to explore the region at your own pace.​​​​​​​

​​​​​Let’s start with the elite race: The Volta ao Algarve

Every February, the Algarve showcases some of the world’s top pro riders, as they pound the hills in preparation for the Spring Classics.

Broadcast in 83 countries, this is a big event, attracting Tour de France champions like Geraint Thomas and Alberto Contador – both previous winners here.

Held over five stages, the race takes in over 750km of mixed terrain, with challenges that stretch every sinew.

​​​​​​​Let’s start with the elite race: The Volta ao Algarve

Every February, the Algarve showcases some of the world’s top pro riders, as they pound the hills in preparation for the Spring Classics.

Broadcast in 83 countries, this is a big event, attracting Tour de France champions like Geraint Thomas and Alberto Contador – both previous winners here.

Held over five stages, the race takes in over 750km of mixed terrain, with challenges that stretch every sinew.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Let’s start with the elite race: The Volta ao Algarve

Every February, the Algarve showcases some of the world’s top pro riders, as they pound the hills in preparation for the Spring Classics.

Broadcast in 83 countries, this is a big event, attracting Tour de France champions like Geraint Thomas and Alberto Contador – both previous winners here.

Held over five stages, the race takes in over 750km of mixed terrain, with challenges that stretch every sinew.​​​​​​​

Take the 2021 route as an example:

Stage 1: a test for the sprinters, who pass some of the Algarve’s finest beaches as they race to a finish in Portimão.

Stage 2: a 180km mountainous trial, featuring 4,000 metres of elevation with a finish at Alto do Fóia - the region’s highest point.

Stage 3: a flatter affair, but with no let-up as the riders sprint to a finish in Tavira.

Stage 4: a hilly time trial, spanning over 20kms around Lagoa.

​​​​​​​

Stage 5: a brutal 3,280 metre ascent, climbing to a steep finish in Alto Do Malhão.

Take the 2021 route as an example:

Stage 1: a test for the sprinters, who pass some of the Algarve’s finest beaches as they race to a finish in Portimão.

Stage 2: a 180km mountainous trial, featuring 4,000 metres of elevation with a finish at Alto do Fóia - the region’s highest point.

Stage 3: a flatter affair, but with no let-up as the riders sprint to a finish in Tavira.

Stage 4: a hilly time trial, spanning over 20kms around Lagoa.

Stage 5: a brutal 3,280 metre ascent, climbing to a steep finish in Alto Do Malhão.

Take the 2021 route as an example:

Stage 1: a test for the sprinters, who pass some of the Algarve’s finest beaches as they race to a finish in Portimão.

Stage 2: a 180km mountainous trial, featuring 4,000 metres of elevation with a finish at Alto do Fóia - the region’s highest point.

Stage 3: a flatter affair, but with no let-up as the riders sprint to a finish in Tavira.

Stage 4: a hilly time trial, spanning over 20kms around Lagoa.

​​​​​​​

Stage 5: a brutal 3,280 metre ascent, climbing to a steep finish in Alto Do Malhão.

At every stage, you can join the crowds along the the route to cheer on the leaders. Or go for some hospitality, where you’ll follow the route in style or wait at the finish for a close-up view of the final push.

​​​​​​​

The Ride Across Algarve

Integrated into the same UCI Pro Series as the Volta is the Ride Across Algarve. It’s a great opportunity to watch some of the world’s leading amateur riders as they get a first taste of serious competition.

As with the Volta, the Ride Across Algarve features five stages on a mix of flat and mountain roads. With 75 miles (110kms) to conquer in a typical stage, the race is built around timed sections with pit stops on the quieter roads. For spectators, it doubles as a chance to take in the Algarve’s finest landscapes – plus some gastronomic delights in the nearby towns.

​​​​​​​

This year, you might watch from the sidelines. But who knows - maybe next year you’ll find yourself on the start line itching to attack the mountain routes and power along the coast roads? 

But don’t worry if that’s a stretch too far. There are plenty of other opportunities for you to get in the saddle…​​​​​​​

At every stage, you can join the crowds along the route to cheer on the leaders. Or go for some hospitality, where you’ll follow the route in style or wait at the finish for a close-up view of the final push.

The Ride Across Algarve

Integrated into the same UCI Pro Series as the Volta is the Ride Across Algarve. It’s a great opportunity to watch some of the world’s leading amateur riders as they get a first taste of serious competition.

As with the Volta, the Ride Across Algarve features five stages on a mix of flat and mountain roads. With 75 miles (110kms) to conquer in a typical stage, the race is built around timed sections with pit stops on the quieter roads. For spectators, it doubles as a chance to take in the Algarve’s finest landscapes – plus some gastronomic delights in the nearby towns.

This year, you might watch from the sidelines. But who knows - maybe next year you’ll find yourself on the start line itching to attack the mountain routes and power along the coast roads?

​​​​​​​

But don't worry if that's a stretch too far. There are plenty of other opportunities for you to get in the saddle.

At every stage, you can join the crowds along the the route to cheer on the leaders. Or go for some hospitality, where you’ll follow the route in style or wait at the finish for a close-up view of the final push.

​​​​​​​

The Ride Across Algarve

Integrated into the same UCI Pro Series as the Volta is the Ride Across Algarve. It’s a great opportunity to watch some of the world’s leading amateur riders as they get a first taste of serious competition.

As with the Volta, the Ride Across Algarve features five stages on a mix of flat and mountain roads. With 75 miles (110kms) to conquer in a typical stage, the race is built around timed sections with pit stops on the quieter roads. For spectators, it doubles as a chance to take in the Algarve’s finest landscapes – plus some gastronomic delights in the nearby towns.

​​​​​​​

This year, you might watch from the sidelines. But who knows - maybe next year you’ll find yourself on the start line itching to attack the mountain routes and power along the coast roads? 

But don’t worry if that’s a stretch too far. There are plenty of other opportunities for you to get in the saddle…​​​​​​​

Let’s get pedalling

If you’re based in northern Europe, the prospect of winter cycling through the mud, cold and drizzle probably holds little appeal. But the Algarve changes that game: the sun shines here for 300 days a year (even in November and February!), making winter a short affair. So all year round, you can ride in perfect conditions - although you might want to avoid the tourist peaks of July and August.

So…where to ride?

It’s your choice. Cruise through charming old towns awash with bell towers, cobbles and terracotta tiles. Sweep along quiet country roads with the breeze whispering its way through the orange groves. Or head for the coast. The Algarve seaside is alive with chic marinas… fishing harbours that pop with colour… pirate coves… pink flamingos… so whether you set your own itinerary or join a tour party, there’s something for everyone. Just be sure to bring your binoculars!

And if you enjoy that mix of physical endurance and natural beauty, there’s one event you should certainly consider:

The GranFondo Tavira

Bringing all these delights together, the GranFondo is held every autumn with a mission of promoting the region’s flora and fauna.

And why not? Tavira sits in a glorious landscape of salt lagoons, mudflats, spoonbills, castles and golden beaches, all set against the languorous flow of the Girao River. It’s a haven for nature-lovers.

The good news is, you don’t have to be Bradley Wiggins! It’s open to all comers, from pros to beginners. So if you can tackle 140kms of sometimes difficult terrain, there’s no reason to sit this one out.

And don’t worry - it’s not especially competitive. There are time trials, ratings and awards, so you will explore your physical limits. But in other ways it’s more like an excursion: a chance to take in the scenery and enjoy the camaraderie, in a unique experience that develops the body and soul.

Let’s talk cycling tours

There’s no better way to discover the real Algarve than on a cycling tour, whether it’s a guided or individual option.

On an individual tour, you’ll be given a bike and a detailed route, and that’s it… head out into the open and enjoy the surroundings, free of all distractions. While on a guided tour, you’ll be in the hands of a local expert, either in your own party or as part of a group.

​​​​​​​

Either way, you’ll find a good choice of tours, taking in lush mountains, coastal wonders and Moorish villages. (Don’t miss the folded terrain of the Serra de Monchique.)

And you don’t have to cram it all into a few hours. Longer tours will keep you in the saddle for 400kms or more, spread out over four or five days. You can choose from a series of graded routes, and rest overnight in the luxury of a 5-star hotel (or even a period palace!). So there’s something for every taste and every fitness level.

Prefer to set your own pace?

If you’d sooner set your own itinerary, the Algarve offers a range of safe, pre-defined routes that showcase the best of coast and countryside.

If mountain biking’s your thing, you’ll love our trails of extinct volcanoes… the vast natural parks on the west coast… and the endless dirt roads and single-track riding around Lagos.

Or take beach loops from Carrapateira or Paisagem Oceano. Tackle a three-hour hill climb from Lagos and watch the Atlantic’s turquoise waters wash against the rocks below. Or ride the 25 or so mystical forest trails through the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.

Or if you prefer your cycling on a grander scale, there are major routes that will take you further afield. Try one of these…

Rota Vicentina
This is primarily a hiking route in the Vicentina National Park, but it’s also great for cycling. Broken into sections of up to 25kms, the trail offers rides of anything from a couple of hours to a full week.

The Historical Way is a popular section, alive with cork-tree forests, mountain ranges, valleys, rivers and creeks.

Via Algarviana

A 300km trail from the Cape of St Vincent to Alcoutim that you can break down into 14 smaller sections. This is the best way to see the interior of the Algarve, with its low-lying hills, tiny villages, eucalyptus forests, orange groves and pine trees.

Grande Rota do Guadiana

Snaking its way from Vila Real de Santo Antonio to Alcoutim in the eastern Algarve, this route follows the Guadiana River. The Grande Rota do Guadiana encompasses the Algarve's three distinct landscapes: the uplands, the barrocal and the coast.

Ecovia do Litoral

An 18-hour route stretching east to west across the Algarve covering over 200kms. Beginning at Vila Real and ending at Cape of St Vincent in Sagres, the route takes in the entire southern coastline of Portugal.

It’s a six-stage proposition packed with lagoons, beaches, cliffs and fishing villages. With a chance to refuel on delicacies of the sea, such as octopus and razor-clam rice.

The Mountains of Monchique

Road cycling in the 32km Serra de Monchique mountains will see your wheels spin along pristine tarmac that sweeps you to the roof of the Algarve: the 902-metre Foia. 

Tackle the peak from sea level at Lagos or from the spa town of Monchique. Breathe the eucalyptus-filled air and drink in the 360-degree panoramic views of the Algarve.​​​​​​​

Let’s get pedalling

If you’re based in northern Europe, the prospect of winter cycling through the mud, cold and drizzle probably holds little appeal. But the Algarve changes that game: the sun shines here for 300 days a year (even in November and February!), making winter a short affair. So all year round, you can ride in perfect conditions - although you might want to avoid the tourist peaks of July and August.

So…where to ride?

It’s your choice. Cruise through charming old towns awash with bell towers, cobbles and terracotta tiles. Sweep along quiet country roads with the breeze whispering its way through the orange groves. Or head for the coast. The Algarve seaside is alive with chic marinas… fishing harbours that pop with colour… pirate coves… pink flamingos… so whether you set your own itinerary or join a tour party, there’s something for everyone. Just be sure to bring your binoculars!

And if you enjoy that mix of physical endurance and natural beauty, there’s one event you should certainly consider:

The GranFondo Tavira

Bringing all these delights together, the GranFondo is held every autumn with a mission of promoting the region’s flora and fauna.

And why not? Tavira sits in a glorious landscape of salt lagoons, mudflats, spoonbills, castles and golden beaches, all set against the languorous flow of the Girao River. It’s a haven for nature-lovers.

The good news is, you don’t have to be Bradley Wiggins! It’s open to all comers, from pros to beginners. So if you can tackle 140kms of sometimes difficult terrain, there’s no reason to sit this one out.

And don’t worry - it’s not especially competitive. There are time trials, ratings and awards, so you will explore your physical limits. But in other ways it’s more like an excursion: a chance to take in the scenery and enjoy the camaraderie, in a unique experience that develops the body and soul.

Let’s talk cycling tours

There’s no better way to discover the real Algarve than on a cycling tour, whether it’s a guided or individual option.

On an individual tour, you’ll be given a bike and a detailed route, and that’s it… head out into the open and enjoy the surroundings, free of all distractions. While on a guided tour, you’ll be in the hands of a local expert, either in your own party or as part of a group.

Either way, you’ll find a good choice of tours, taking in lush mountains, coastal wonders and Moorish villages. (Don’t miss the folded terrain of the Serra de Monchique.)

And you don’t have to cram it all into a few hours. Longer tours will keep you in the saddle for 400kms or more, spread out over four or five days. You can choose from a series of graded routes, and rest overnight in the luxury of a 5-star hotel (or even a period palace!). So there’s something for every taste and every fitness level.

Prefer to set your own pace?

If you’d sooner set your own itinerary, the Algarve offers a range of safe, pre-defined routes that showcase the best of coast and countryside.

If mountain biking’s your thing, you’ll love our trails of extinct volcanoes… the vast natural parks on the west coast… and the endless dirt roads and single-track riding around Lagos.

Or take beach loops from Carrapateira or Paisagem Oceano. Tackle a three-hour hill climb from Lagos and watch the Atlantic’s turquoise waters wash against the rocks below. Or ride the 25 or so mystical forest trails through the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.

Or if you prefer your cycling on a grander scale, there are major routes that will take you further afield. Try one of these…

Rota Vicentina

This is primarily a hiking route in the Vicentina National Park, but it’s also great for cycling. Broken into sections of up to 25kms, the trail offers rides of anything from a couple of hours to a full week.

The Historical Way is a popular section, alive with cork-tree forests, mountain ranges, valleys, rivers and creeks.

Via Algarviana

A 300km trail from the Cape of St Vincent to Alcoutim that you can break down into 14 smaller sections. This is the best way to see the interior of the Algarve, with its low-lying hills, tiny villages, eucalyptus forests, orange groves and pine trees.

Grande Rota do Guadiana

Snaking its way from Vila Real de Santo Antonio to Alcoutim in the eastern Algarve, this route follows the Guadiana River. The Grande Rota do Guadiana encompasses the Algarve's three distinct landscapes: the uplands, the barrocal and the coast.

Ecovia do Litoral

An 18-hour route stretching east to west across the Algarve covering over 200kms. Beginning at Vila Real and ending at Cape of St Vincent in Sagres, the route takes in the entire southern coastline of Portugal.

It’s a six-stage proposition packed with lagoons, beaches, cliffs and fishing villages. With a chance to refuel on delicacies of the sea, such as octopus and razor-clam rice.

The Mountains of Monchique

Road cycling in the 32km Serra de Monchique mountains will see your wheels spin along pristine tarmac that sweeps you to the roof of the Algarve: the 902-metre Foia.

​​​​​​​

Tackle the peak from sea level at Lagos or from the spa town of Monchique. Breathe the eucalyptus-filled air and drink in the 360 degree panoramic views of the Algarve.

Let’s get pedalling

If you’re based in northern Europe, the prospect of winter cycling through the mud, cold and drizzle probably holds little appeal. But the Algarve changes that game: the sun shines here for 300 days a year (even in November and February!), making winter a short affair. So all year round, you can ride in perfect conditions - although you might want to avoid the tourist peaks of July and August.

So…where to ride?

It’s your choice. Cruise through charming old towns awash with bell towers, cobbles and terracotta tiles. Sweep along quiet country roads with the breeze whispering its way through the orange groves. Or head for the coast. The Algarve seaside is alive with chic marinas… fishing harbours that pop with colour… pirate coves… pink flamingos… so whether you set your own itinerary or join a tour party, there’s something for everyone. Just be sure to bring your binoculars!

And if you enjoy that mix of physical endurance and natural beauty, there’s one event you should certainly consider:

The GranFondo Tavira

Bringing all these delights together, the GranFondo is held every autumn with a mission of promoting the region’s flora and fauna.

And why not? Tavira sits in a glorious landscape of salt lagoons, mudflats, spoonbills, castles and golden beaches, all set against the languorous flow of the Girao River. It’s a haven for nature-lovers.

The good news is, you don’t have to be Bradley Wiggins! It’s open to all comers, from pros to beginners. So if you can tackle 140kms of sometimes difficult terrain, there’s no reason to sit this one out.

And don’t worry - it’s not especially competitive. There are time trials, ratings and awards, so you will explore your physical limits. But in other ways it’s more like an excursion: a chance to take in the scenery and enjoy the camaraderie, in a unique experience that develops the body and soul.

Let’s talk cycling tours

There’s no better way to discover the real Algarve than on a cycling tour, whether it’s a guided or individual option.

On an individual tour, you’ll be given a bike and a detailed route, and that’s it… head out into the open and enjoy the surroundings, free of all distractions. While on a guided tour, you’ll be in the hands of a local expert, either in your own party or as part of a group.

​​​​​​​

Either way, you’ll find a good choice of tours, taking in lush mountains, coastal wonders and Moorish villages. (Don’t miss the folded terrain of the Serra de Monchique.)

And you don’t have to cram it all into a few hours. Longer tours will keep you in the saddle for 400kms or more, spread out over four or five days. You can choose from a series of graded routes, and rest overnight in the luxury of a 5-star hotel (or even a period palace!). So there’s something for every taste and every fitness level.

Prefer to set your own pace?

If you’d sooner set your own itinerary, the Algarve offers a range of safe, pre-defined routes that showcase the best of coast and countryside.

If mountain biking’s your thing, you’ll love our trails of extinct volcanoes… the vast natural parks on the west coast… and the endless dirt roads and single-track riding around Lagos.

Or take beach loops from Carrapateira or Paisagem Oceano. Tackle a three-hour hill climb from Lagos and watch the Atlantic’s turquoise waters wash against the rocks below. Or ride the 25 or so mystical forest trails through the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.

Or if you prefer your cycling on a grander scale, there are major routes that will take you further afield. Try one of these…

Rota Vicentina
This is primarily a hiking route in the Vicentina National Park, but it’s also great for cycling. Broken into sections of up to 25kms, the trail offers rides of anything from a couple of hours to a full week.

The Historical Way is a popular section, alive with cork-tree forests, mountain ranges, valleys, rivers and creeks.

Via Algarviana

A 300km trail from the Cape of St Vincent to Alcoutim that you can break down into 14 smaller sections. This is the best way to see the interior of the Algarve, with its low-lying hills, tiny villages, eucalyptus forests, orange groves and pine trees.

Grande Rota do Guadiana

Snaking its way from Vila Real de Santo Antonio to Alcoutim in the eastern Algarve, this route follows the Guadiana River. The Grande Rota do Guadiana encompasses the Algarve's three distinct landscapes: the uplands, the barrocal and the coast.

Ecovia do Litoral

An 18-hour route stretching east to west across the Algarve covering over 200kms. Beginning at Vila Real and ending at Cape of St Vincent in Sagres, the route takes in the entire southern coastline of Portugal.

It’s a six-stage proposition packed with lagoons, beaches, cliffs and fishing villages. With a chance to refuel on delicacies of the sea, such as octopus and razor-clam rice.

The Mountains of Monchique

Road cycling in the 32km Serra de Monchique mountains will see your wheels spin along pristine tarmac that sweeps you to the roof of the Algarve: the 902-metre Foia. 

Tackle the peak from sea level at Lagos or from the spa town of Monchique. Breathe the eucalyptus-filled air and drink in the 360-degree panoramic views of the Algarve.​​​​​​​

As you can see, there’s no shortage of routes to travel in the Algarve! There are unique, life-enhancing experiences to be had at every turn – whether you’re pedalling yourself or watching others put in the hard yards.

You just have to pick an experience, and put the gears in motion.

​​​​​​​

And that’s easy if you’re a member of The Kingsman Circle. Our local experts will help you plan your cycling expedition or VIP experience, tailored to your personal taste. One call is all it takes.

As you can see, there’s no shortage of routes to travel in the Algarve! There are unique, life-enhancing experiences to be had at every turn – whether you’re pedalling yourself or watching others put in the hard yards.

You just have to pick an experience, and put the gears in motion.

​​​​​​​

And that’s easy if you’re a member of The Kingsman Circle. Our local experts will help you plan your cycling expedition or VIP experience, tailored to your personal taste. One call is all it takes.

As you can see, there’s no shortage of routes to travel in the Algarve! There are unique, life-enhancing experiences to be had at every turn – whether you’re pedalling yourself or watching others put in the hard yards.

You just have to pick an experience, and put the gears in motion.

​​​​​​​

And that’s easy if you’re a member of The Kingsman Circle. Our local experts will help you plan your cycling expedition or VIP experience, tailored to your personal taste. One call is all it takes.

Everything is easier inside The Kingsman Circle

​​​​​​​Find your Algarve villa or apartment with us, and you’re an instant lifelong member of The Kingsman Circle: our private community of local home owners who enjoy the best rates and privileged access to every kind of service.

Think of us as your personal concierge - always one call away.

Whether it's a golfing question or any other matter… we're ready with recommendations and ready to arrange.

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