Cycle Southern Portugal’s natural parks, historic towns, and coastal trails

Get ready to experience the ultimate gravel biking in the Algarve! This tour takes you off the beaten path into southern Portugal's unique landscapes. Spend a week exploring dense forests, cycling past historic castles in Mértola, and riding through the abandoned mines of São Domingos. Follow old smuggling routes along the Guadiana River, with Spain just across the way, before heading south to discover the Algarve's hidden trails.

Pedal through varied terrains where the countryside meets the coast, from the quiet beaches of Cacela Velha to the waters of Ria Formosa and Olhão. Along the way, you'll have the chance to enjoy the Algarve's delicious seafood and local dishes.

Whether you're a seasoned gravel biker or looking for a unique adventure, this tour offers the perfect mix of challenge and discovery. Ride through natural parks, riversides, and coastal trails, and experience a side of the Algarve that few get to see!

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Highlights

• Alcoutim: Historic village with scenic views and a history of contraband routes.
• Cacela Velha: Beaches and traditional Portuguese architecture with ocean views.
• Tavira: Historic city with charming streets and coastal scenery.
• Olhão: Market and seafood, reflecting local culture and cuisine.
• Mértola: Historic town with a castle and views over the Guadiana River.
• Guadiana Natural Park: Gravel trails through diverse landscapes and natural beauty.

Learn More

Not sure which type of tour to book? Learn about the differences between guided and self-guided tours.

Daily program

Day 1: Arrival in Albernoa
Start your adventure with a pick-up from Lisbon or Faro airport and transfer to the beautiful wine estate in Albernoa, nestled in the heart of Alentejo. Upon arrival, enjoy a private briefing about your upcoming journey through the Algarve. Spend the rest of the day unwinding at the estate.

Day 2: Albernoa - Mértola (32 mi. / 51 km / +800m)
Following breakfast, set off on a ride from Albernoa to Mértola, deep within the Guadiana Natural Park. Cycle through more montado landscapes toward the historic town of Mértola, known for its hilltop castle and stunning views of the Guadiana River. This ride offers a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, showcasing the rural charm of the Alentejo region.

Day 3: Mértola - Minas de São Domingos - Alcoutim (40 mi. / 65 km / +1200m)
Start your day with a ride from Mértola, crossing the Guadiana River and navigating serene back roads to the Minas de São Domingos, an industrial archaeological site rich in mining history. The journey continues as you ride to Pomarão and cross into Spain, following the scenic Via Verde ecopista, a converted railway track, to Sanlúcar de Guadiana. Here, a boat ride takes you across the river back to Portugal, arriving in the picturesque village of Alcoutim, a former contraband route between Spain and Portugal.

Day 4: Alcoutim to Cacela Velha to Tavira (43 mi. / 69 km / +800m)
After breakfast, cycle from Alcoutim along the GR15 route, a gravel trail that winds south through lush landscapes and along the Guadiana River. Pass by Castro Marim and its historic castle, then continue to Vila Real de Santo António, where the Algarve’s stunning coastline comes into view. Finish the day with a ride along the coast to the beautiful beach of Cacela Velha, with its stunning ocean views and traditional Portuguese charm. Continue riding along the gravel trails to reach Tavira.

Day 5: Tavira to Olhão Loop (37 mi. / 60 km / +120m)
Today's ride takes you along the Algarve’s breathtaking coastline. Departing from Tavira, a historic city known for its charm and cobblestone streets. Continue past some of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches, including Barril and Fuseta, before reaching Olhão, a lively coastal town with a bustling market. Choose to explore the market or, if you prefer since this is a loop tour, you can skip today's ride and enjoy time exploring Tavira or relaxing on the beach.

Day 6: Tavira – Barrocal Algarvio loop (43 mi. / 69 km / +600m)
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off on your final ride of the week. Beginning in the beautiful town of Tavira, you will cycling along the cobblestone streets among the many historic buildings.

After leaving Tavira behind, you will head east along the Atlantic Ecovia making your way to Fábrica. From here the route leads inland to the Barrocal region. Continue pedalling along the rolling hills alongside olive trees and citrus groves. The gravel trails offer a thrilling mix of gentle climbs and exhilarating descents, blending adventure with moments of serenity.

Following the rugged terrain, you'll enjoy a winding decent towards the Gilão River. Finish the day cycling through the natural beauty of the Algarve as you make your way back to Tavira.

Day 7: Departure from Tavira
After breakfast, enjoy a comfortable transfer back to Faro or Lisbon airport, concluding your Algarve gravel biking adventure.

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Dates & Prices

Questions about pricing or options? Call +1-215-613-0874 to talk to a Tour Advisor now.

Included services

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