This cycling route is a dream for anyone craving a mix of coastal charm, mountain grit, and cultural richness into one unforgettable loop through southern Portugal

🚴‍♂️ Algarve Odyssey: A Road Cycling Holiday 

Southern Portugal’s Algarve region is a cyclist’s dream: sun-drenched roads, dramatic coastlines, sleepy villages, and mountain climbs that reward every drop of sweat. This circular road bike route begins and ends in Faro, weaving through coastal gems like Tavira and Vila Real de Santo António, climbing through Monte Novo and Monchique, and tracing the wild Atlantic edge to Sagres before looping back. It’s a journey that captures the Algarve’s soul—on two wheels.

🗺️ Route Overview

• Start/End: Faro
• Distance: ~400–450 km
• Duration: 6 nights
• Terrain: Coastal flats, rolling hills, and mountain climbs

Day 1 - Arrival Day 

We arrive unpack and get ready for the adventure ahead

🌅 Day 2 : Faro → Vila Real de Santo António 

Begin in Faro, the Algarve’s historic capital, where cobbled streets and Moorish arches meet the tranquil waters of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Ride east along the Tavira before heading to the hills then Vila Real with elegant plazas and views across the Guadiana River to Spain.

⛰️ Day 3: Vila Real de Santo António→ Vilamoura 

Turn inland and tackle the rolling hills of Monte Novo, a quiet region of cork forests and winding roads. This leg is more challenging, with steady climbs and rural charm.

Highlights:

• Monte Novo: Peaceful roads and panoramic vistas.
• Loulé: Traditional market town with Moorish architecture.
• Vilamoura: Chic marina, bike-friendly paths, and a great spot to recover.

🏞️ Day 4: Vilamoura → Monchique (~75 km)

Ride northwest through Silves, a town crowned by a red sandstone castle, and begin your ascent into the Serra de Monchique. The climb is steep, but the air is cooler and the views are spectacular.

Highlights:

• Silves: Historic castle and riverside cafés.
• Foia Peak: The highest point in the Algarve with sweeping views.

🌊 Day 5: Monchique → Sagres (~90 km)

Descend through winding forest roads and head west toward the dramatic coastline of Sagres. This is where the land meets the Atlantic in a wild, windswept embrace.

Highlights:

• Aljezur: Medieval ruins and surf-town vibes.
• Costa Vicentina Natural Park: Protected cliffs and hidden beaches.
• Cape St. Vincent: The “end of the world” with crashing waves and a historic lighthouse.

🏖️ Day 6:  Sagres → Faro

Trace the southern coast back to Faro, passing through Lagos, Portimão, and Albufeira. This stretch offers cliffside roads, golden beaches, and plenty of places to pause and soak it all in.

Highlights:

• Lagos: Old town charm and dramatic sea caves.
• Benagil Cave: Iconic sea cave (worth a detour).
• Albufeira: Cliffside beaches and lively atmosphere.
• Faro: Celebrate your return with a sunset drink by the marina.

🏁 Day 7: Faro  → Home

Time to look around Faro before heading to the airport

✨ Final Thoughts

This Faro-to-Faro loop is more than a cycling holiday—it’s a narrative of Portugal’s landscapes, history, and hospitality. From coastal breezes to mountain silence, every pedal stroke brings you closer to the heart of the Algarve. Whether you’re chasing sunrises over the Atlantic or winding through cork forests, this journey is one you’ll never forget.