Best Cycling Routes in Portugal

Cycling in Portugal is an experience like no other, offering a mesmerising blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. The diverse terrain, from the rugged mountains and rolling hills to the serene coastal paths, provides endless opportunities for cyclists of all levels to explore and challenge themselves.

Whether you're winding through the picturesque Algarve, climbing the highest peaks in Monchique, or meandering along the wild Atlantic coast, every pedal stroke reveals something new and breathtaking. Portugal's mild climate ensures year-round cycling enjoyment, while its charming villages, historic cities, and welcoming locals make every journey a memorable adventure. Embrace the freedom of the open road and discover why Portugal is a cyclist's paradise with Love Velo.

Porto to Lisbon

There is simply no better route than the stunning roads that hug the wild Atlantic coast from Porto to Lisbon.

Arriving in Porto, you'll be captivated by its rich history and charm, enjoying a glass of its famed Port wine. Your cycling adventure begins along the Douro River to the Atlantic coast, passing through serene pine forests and beautiful sandy beaches, with stops for traditional Portuguese cuisine. Discover the tranquil Aveiro lagoon and continue to Figueira da Foz, a prime seaside resort, enjoying breathtaking views from Serra da Boa Viagem. Ride through the historic Pinhal de Leiria forest, visit the traditional fishing village of Nazaré, and finish at Foz do Arelho. Your journey concludes in the enchanting town of Óbidos, leaving you with lasting memories of Portugal. See more about our Porto to Lisbon cycling holiday here

The Algarve Coast

Arrive at Faro airport and head to the charming village of Cabanas de Tavira, where you can explore before taking a private boat to the beach across the Ria Formosa. Your cycling adventure begins with a loop to Vila Real de Santo António, following the scenic EuroVelo 1 route through picturesque towns and coastal views. Next, cycle to Faro via the historic city of Tavira, passing traditional fishing villages and the vibrant capital of the Algarve. Ride through luxurious resorts and dramatic cliffs to Armação de Pêra, then continue to Lagos, stopping at the stunning Senhora da Rocha chapel and the fishing village of Ferragudo. The journey culminates with a ride to Sagres, visiting iconic spots like Ponta da Piedade and Cape Saint Vincent. Finally, enjoy a smooth transfer back to the airport or extend your stay to soak up the serene beaches of Sagres. This adventure promises to push your boundaries, offering a perfect blend of scenic rides and cultural highlights.

If you fancy riding across the Algarve on hybrid style bikes with shorter distances, this is the holiday for you, but if you fancy longer rides, more elevation and some great Algarve road cycling, click here.

The Monchique Mountains

Arrive in Faro and head to the serene Monchique mountains, The Serra de Monchique mountain range boasts some of Portugal's best climbs, including the renowned Foia at 902m, offering breathtaking views over the Atlantic and beyond. Enjoy riding through the quiet, scenic mountain roads. Your journey continues westward, cycling through Marmelete and Aljezur, with their charming whitewashed houses, before reaching the stunning Praia de Monte Clérigo beach. Here, relax with a pastel de nata and a refreshing dip. The route includes a modest climb and several long stretches to find your rhythm. Another highlight is a loop to Portimão, a mostly flat or downhill ride that takes you to Beach Tres Irmãos for a beachside lunch. The return journey features a gentle climb through picturesque vineyards and countryside.

Portugal's Glorious Gravel

Your cycling adventure begins with a stunning circular route through the eastern Algarve, exploring the Serra de Tavira, Santa Rita forest, and the coastal beauty of the Ria Formosa. The next leg takes you westward along the Ria Formosa to the village of Fuzeta, then north through the Barrocal and traditional villages like São Brás de Alportel and Loulé, before ending in the picturesque village of Alte. A scenic ride to Silves follows, where you can visit the medieval castle and explore the Serra de Silves' challenging climbs and descents. The Monchique Mountains beckon next, with a climb up Fóia, the highest peak in the Algarve, and a descent to the beautiful Costa Vicentina beaches, finishing in Vale da Telha. Your final cycling day traces the breathtaking Vicentine coast, renowned as Europe's best gravel route, culminating at Cabo de São Vicente, the continent's most southwesterly point. After this incredible journey, you'll have a transfer service back to Faro, with the option to extend your stay and explore more of this captivating region. If you want to ride the Algarve's incredible gravel routes, check out this holiday.

When should I go cycling in Portugal?

Everyone loves Portugal. That’s why the peak summer months from July to August are packed with tourists along the Algarve’s coast so we suggest avoiding this. The best time to go cycling in Portugal is in the off-peak season, from April to June, and September to November. Warm temperatures and less tourists will make your cycling experience perfect. Winter cycling is also an option, and whilst we can't guarantee it, our team are often guests of the Portuguese tourist board and we have ridden in glorious sunhsine even in February!

Tips for cycling in Portugal

If you want to cycle into the rural areas, outside of the bustling cities and towns, you’re going to have to practice a bit of basic Portugese. Not every local will speak English, and it may be useful for you to know how to ask for directions and order food (for the many café’s you’ll encounter).

Exhausted from all the cycling? Museums are free on a Sunday, so head to your nearest one to learn more about Portugal’s history and culture.

Motorists are mostly respectful of cyclists in Portugal, yet they do have right of way. Bear this in mind when in busier areas such as Lagos, Faro and large towns. In rural areas we’ve found that traffic is rare, so try not to get complacent and remember to give enough space for cars to pass safely.