Lisbon to the Algarve
A cycling journey from the capital of Portugal to it's most southern region. Based on the Atlantic Coast route, Eurovelo 1 and supported by the predominantly northern winds this tour is a wonderful way to get to know this both, charming and impressive south west corner of Europe.
- Activity: Self guided touring holiday
- Bike type: Touring bike
- Duration: 7 nights, 6 days cycling
- Activity level: Reasonably experienced
- Accommodation: 3 and 4 star hotels/guesthouses
- Daily average: 50 km
- Price: From €995
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Lisbon
Upon your arrival in Lisbon, we will collect you and take you to Sesimbra, a fisherman town on the coast just south of the capital for your first night. It is also possible to arrive in Faro, Algarve and have an extra night there or an early start for travelling towards Lisbon.
Day 2 Cycle to Setúbal (43km, 540m. elevation gain)
Setting out from the emblematic cape, Cabo Espichel, most of this ride is going along the limestone cliff sides from Arrábida Natural Park offering views on the crystal clear waters of the Setúbal Bay and the Troía peninsula with it's fine white sandy beaches.
Day 3 Cycle to Santiago de Cacém (62km, 580m. elevation gain)
The Troía peninsula is this day's cycling play ground which is reached taking the ferry across the bay right after breakfast. With the sea always very close on your right and left side you're passing the sand dunes and rice fields. After reaching the main land and the scenery changing from pine into cork oak forests you have made it to Santiago de Cacém. This classic town is the base for many walkers, bikers and travellers who want to explore the Rota Vicentina (west coast route) and you will see why in the days to follow.
Day 4 Cycle to Vilanova de Milfontes (58km, 450m. elevation gain)
From the interior back to the Atlantic coast. Serene rural scenery, surrounded by cork and cycling almost alone on very quiet roads the route passes by the farmer towns Cercal do Alentejo and São Luis. Then heading west to approach the sea again. Being a popular destination also for Portuguese tourism Vilanova de Milfontes is a noticeably vivid and lively seaside town where the river Mira meets the ocean.
Day 5 Cycle to Zambujeira do Mar (38km, 200m. elevation gain)
Today's ride is not long but contains a few interesting locations, partly off route, and all within the Vicentina Natural Park which is the home for this cycling journey. The beach from Almograve, Cabo Sardão and the natural fishing harbour Entrada da Barca are well worth a visit. It is impressive to take in the views of the Atlantic Ocean beating and continuing giving shape to the rough Alentejo coast line.
Day 6 Cycle to Aljezur (44 km, 460m. elevation gain)
A good day's riding, heading south further down unspoilt south-western coast of Portugal. A sequence of coastal and agricultural scenery. We're in the land of the 'sweet potato', to be consumed for example with octopus prepared in one of many traditional ways. The route includes the transition from the Alentejo province to the Algarve. The two regions are here separated by the river Ceixe, to be crossed at the village of Odeceixe. The river estuary, en route, calls for an extra break overlooking the pretty Odeceixe beach.
Day 7 Cycle to Sagres (54km, 750m. elevation gain)
This day's ride announces the end of the cycling journey along the western Atlantic Ocean. With the southern Atlantic and its most western cape, Cabo de São Vicente approaching the surroundings turn wilder and rougher. The wind swept plains from the Sagres peninsula allow for low and little vegetation. It has a micro climate and biological conditions of it's own with several endemic species of flora, which makes this last day riding again different from the previous ones.
Day 8 Departure
We will transfer you from your accommodation in Sagres to Faro airport for your flight home, or to a train station in central Algarve for the best train connection back to Lisbon.
Prices
- January: €995
- February: €1035
- March: €1065
- April: €1195
- May: €1225
- June: €1295
- July: €1395
- August: €1420
- September: €1395
- October: €1245
- November: €1075
- December: €1075
Included:
- Quality bike and equipment hire
- Detailed maps and route suggestions
- Good quality hotel and accommodations along the route
- Route assisitance when necessary
- Airport transfers
Not included:
- Flights
- Holiday insurance - recommended
- Ferry fare between Setúbal and Troía
- Train fare back to Lisbon.
- Prices are per person, based upon two people sharing a twin/double bedded room.
- Discounts are available for large groups, please contact us for details.
This tour is designed and priced as a 'self guided, carry your own luggage' holiday as this is how we can provide the best value for money for our clients. Howecer, if you prefer to have the services of a dedicated guide, a support vehicle, or perhaps a luggage transfer service, we are happy to arrange these for you at the following rates:
- Luggage transer: €295
- Support vehicle: POA
- Tour guide: POA
