Remember this trip can be tailor made and is completely flexible. This itinerary is simply a suggestion.
Arrive into Faro and you will be picked up and taken to the foot of the Monchique mountains. We have a variety of accommodation for you to choose from, different models of bike and holiday dates and times to suit you.
The Serra de Monchique mountain range offers some of the best climbing in Portugal. The most famous climb Foia which at 902m, offers scenic views over the Atlantic, the Serra da Arrabida in the north and Cape St.Vincent to the west. We highly recommend riding out through the mountains today to get a taste of some stunning and very quiet roads.
Today you will cycle to the west of the country towards the coast through the towns of Marmelete and Aljezur, which are decorated with beautiful whitewashed houses. At the coast you will reach a gorgeous beach named “Praia de Monte Clérigo”. Stop for a break here, enjoy a pastel del nata and dip your toes in the water. You only have one real climb today which is a small 8.5% for a few kilometres, although there are quite a few long drags to get into your rhythm.
You can get a long distance day in today by riding a loop to Portimao. The ride from Monchique to Portimao is almost falt or downhill all the way. You will cycle through the city then onward to Beach Tres Irmaos. Enjoy lunch on the beach before an ascent up towards Marmelete with a gentle climb for 13.7km. You will ride back through incredibly quiet roads and picturesque views over vineyards and glorious countryside.
Today you will be taken back to Faro airport but remember, our trips are entirely tailor made and bespoke so this itinerary can be altered in any way you want.
The mountains and west coast of Portugal offers a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the Algarve’s thronging beaches. You will stay inland in the Serra de Monchique, a rolling mountain range with slopes made up of deciduous oaks, chestnut woods and dazzling colours. Your rides will take you out onto roads used by the pros and tested by bike manufacturers, and towards the quiet west coast beaches where the only noise comes from waves lapping at the shore.