Wild Algarve

Wild Algarve follows Portugal's southern coast from the rugged Costa Vicentina to the calm lagoons of the eastern Algarve. Starting in the village of Odeceixe, you ride quiet roads and dirt tracks past Atlantic cliffs, hidden beaches and surf breaks to Aljezur, the restored hamlet of Pedralva, Cape St Vincent and the Fortress of Sagres.

From Lagos the tour transfers east to ride the Ria Formosa Natural Park, where flamingos feed in the lagoon and fishermen dig for clams at low tide. It finishes in Tavira and Vila Real de Santo António, with visits to an organic fig and carob farm, salt pans and a local pastry factory.

Short climbs and gentle ups and downs make each day a satisfying challenge. Nights are in charming hotels and restored villages with pools. The Premium option upgrades to pousadas, boutique hotels and eco-retreats, with self-guided, van-supported and guided versions available.

Highlights

• Wild beaches and cliffs of the Costa Vicentina Natural Park, from Odeceixe to Aljezur
• Cape St Vincent, "the end of the world", and the Fortress of Sagres
• Sea arches, caves and sandstone cliffs on the way to Lagos
• Flamingos, salt pans and fishermen in the Ria Formosa lagoon
• Tavira and the hilltop village of Cacela-a-Velha
• Organic farm and local pastry factory visits with tastings

Surface and terrain
A mix of quiet secondary roads, good dirt tracks and some gravel, with rolling coastal asphalt between Sagres and Lagos. Short steep climbs on days 3 and 5, and two short technical descents where some riders walk. The eastern Algarve days are mostly flat.

Weather
Mild Algarve climate with sunny days for most of the year. Spring and autumn are ideal and warm enough for a swim. Summers are hot and often windy, and humid in the east. Winters are mild with some rain.

Suitable for
Active leisure riders comfortable with 35 to 45 km days, short climbs and some dirt tracks. Suits couples and small groups wanting coast, culture and food, with e-bikes available. Premium suits riders wanting a more luxurious stay.