{"product_id":"algarve-self-guided-bike-tour","title":"Algarve Self-Guided Bike Tour","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"1295068670\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eOur Self Guided Algarve bike tour explores the almost \u003ca title=\"All about the Algarve interior - the Barrocal\" href=\"https:\/\/cycling-centuries.com\/blogs\/news\/the-enchanting-barrocal-of-the-algarve-portugals-hidden-gem-you-never-knew-you-needed\"\u003eforgotten and untouched interior of southern Portugal.\u003c\/a\u003e This part of Southern Portugal gets \u003cstrong\u003earound 300 days of sunshine a year\u003c\/strong\u003e and offers some of the finest cycling conditions in Europe. \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eYou will ride through country lanes dotted with olive, fig, almond and orange groves rooted in stunning red earth, passing countless villages and the occasional \u003cstrong\u003eMoorish Castle\u003c\/strong\u003e along the way. \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eWe will not stray too far from the \u003cstrong\u003esparkling coastline\u003c\/strong\u003e though, and you will be able to dip in the warm waters of the Algarve, as well as see a unique show of the Portuguese water dog in action!\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eIn many ways the landscape and the people of the \u003ca title=\"All about the Moors in Portugal\" href=\"https:\/\/cycling-centuries.com\/blogs\/news\/moorish-marvels-a-brief-history-of-the-moors-in-portugal\"\u003eAlgarve feel much \u003cstrong\u003ecloser to North Africa\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e than Europe.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eThis warm, sunny bike tour offers on top of great rides, the \u003cstrong\u003eunbeatable Portuguese hospitality\u003c\/strong\u003e, superb food (particularly fresh grilled fish!) beautiful beaches and unique accommodation including converted monasteries and boutique hotels.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"1168876528\" class=\"dmNewParagraph u_1168876528\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHighlights\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"innerList defaultList\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"188\" data-end=\"363\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"190\" data-end=\"363\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"190\" data-end=\"237\"\u003eDelve into the ancient heart of the Algarve\u003c\/strong\u003e, once a stronghold of the Lusitanian Moors, where echoes of its storied past linger in hilltop towns and ruined fortresses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"364\" data-end=\"506\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"366\" data-end=\"506\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"366\" data-end=\"398\"\u003eRide stunning coastal trails\u003c\/strong\u003e, crossing shimmering salt pans and peaceful marshes teeming with birdlife along Portugal’s southern edge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"507\" data-end=\"663\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"509\" data-end=\"663\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"509\" data-end=\"538\"\u003eCycle quiet country lanes\u003c\/strong\u003e, weaving through sunlit orchards of orange and almond trees and into whitewashed villages where time seems to stand still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"664\" data-end=\"875\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"666\" data-end=\"875\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"666\" data-end=\"715\"\u003eCruise the tranquil waters of the Ria Formosa\u003c\/strong\u003e, a protected lagoon rich in wildlife, and explore the grotto-lined coastline of Lagos by boat—two unforgettable perspectives on the Algarve’s natural beauty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"876\" data-end=\"1019\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"878\" data-end=\"1019\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"878\" data-end=\"915\"\u003eDine on the Algarve’s daily catch\u003c\/strong\u003e, grilled to perfection and served with wonderfully expressive wines from Portugal’s rising-star vineyards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1020\" data-end=\"1154\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1022\" data-end=\"1154\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1022\" data-end=\"1068\"\u003eStay in handpicked boutique accommodations\u003c\/strong\u003e, offering charm, comfort, and tranquility—well away from the crowded tourist coast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eItinerary\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"127\" data-start=\"105\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"127\" data-start=\"109\"\u003eDAY 1 – Tavira\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"385\" data-start=\"129\"\u003eFollowing a morning transfer from Faro Airport, you arrive in the graceful old town of Tavira. The day is free to explore its many monuments, cobbled streets, and pretty squares. In the afternoon, get comfortable on your bikes and gather for a gourmet welcome dinner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"540\" data-start=\"387\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"400\" data-start=\"387\"\u003eActivity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Transfer, bike fitting\u003cbr data-end=\"426\" data-start=\"423\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"441\" data-start=\"426\"\u003eHighlights:\u003c\/strong\u003e Explore Tavira, Welcome dinner\u003cbr data-end=\"475\" data-start=\"472\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"494\" data-start=\"475\"\u003eAccommodations:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pousada Convento da Graça\u003cbr data-end=\"523\" data-start=\"520\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"533\" data-start=\"523\"\u003eMeals:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dinner\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"545\" data-start=\"542\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"578\" data-start=\"547\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"578\" data-start=\"551\"\u003eDAY 2 – Tavira to Estoi\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"876\" data-start=\"580\"\u003eWe ride west through the scenic Barrocal region, between the coast and hills of the Algarve. Along the way, you’ll stop in São Brás de Alportel, once a summer retreat for bishops and now a center for traditional crafts and cork products, where you can visit a local cork factory featured in MoMA exhibits.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1051\" data-start=\"878\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"891\" data-start=\"878\"\u003eActivity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ride of 52.2km \/ 32.4mi\u003cbr data-end=\"918\" data-start=\"915\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"933\" data-start=\"918\"\u003eHighlights:\u003c\/strong\u003e São Brás de Alportel, cork factory visit\u003cbr data-end=\"977\" data-start=\"974\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"996\" data-start=\"977\"\u003eAccommodations:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pousada de Estoi\u003cbr data-end=\"1014\" data-start=\"1011\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1024\" data-start=\"1014\"\u003eMeals:\u003c\/strong\u003e Breakfast \/ Lunch \/ Dinner\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1056\" data-start=\"1053\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1089\" data-start=\"1058\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1089\" data-start=\"1062\"\u003eDAY 3 – Estoi Loop Ride\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1417\" data-start=\"1091\"\u003eToday’s shorter loop takes you to the fishing town of Olhão, with its whitewashed, North African-style buildings. En route, we stop at Quinta de Marim in the Ria Formosa Natural Park for a 3 km walk past stork nests and a rare tidal mill. Weather permitting, you can enjoy a boat ride and observe the Ria Formosa and it's island villages.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1626\" data-start=\"1419\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1432\" data-start=\"1419\"\u003eActivity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ride of 38.7km \/ 24mi, 3km walk, optional boat ride\u003cbr data-end=\"1487\" data-start=\"1484\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1502\" data-start=\"1487\"\u003eHighlights:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ria Formosa park, Olhão, Boat ride\u003cbr data-end=\"1552\" data-start=\"1549\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1571\" data-start=\"1552\"\u003eAccommodations:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pousada de Estoi\u003cbr data-end=\"1589\" data-start=\"1586\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1599\" data-start=\"1589\"\u003eMeals:\u003c\/strong\u003e Breakfast \/ Lunch \/ Dinner\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1631\" data-start=\"1628\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1664\" data-start=\"1633\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1664\" data-start=\"1637\"\u003eDAY 4 – Estoi to Silves\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1976\" data-start=\"1666\"\u003eWe begin the day with a visit to the Roman ruins of Milreu, then continue west past orchards of fig, orange, and pomegranate trees. After riding through rolling countryside, you’ll stop in Alte - considered  by many to be the prettiest village in the Algarve - for a peaceful picnic by a stream before arriving in historic Silves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2158\" data-start=\"1978\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1991\" data-start=\"1978\"\u003eActivity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ride of 65.9km \/ 40.9mi\u003cbr data-end=\"2018\" data-start=\"2015\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2033\" data-start=\"2018\"\u003eHighlights:\u003c\/strong\u003e Milreu ruins, Alte village, countryside picnic\u003cbr data-end=\"2083\" data-start=\"2080\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2102\" data-start=\"2083\"\u003eAccommodations:\u003c\/strong\u003e Vale Fuzeiros\u003cbr data-end=\"2121\" data-start=\"2118\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2131\" data-start=\"2121\"\u003eMeals:\u003c\/strong\u003e Breakfast \/ Lunch \/ Dinner\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2163\" data-start=\"2160\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2196\" data-start=\"2165\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2196\" data-start=\"2169\"\u003eDAY 5 – Silves to Lagos\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2483\" data-start=\"2198\"\u003eToday you ride through the Arade River valley, a haven for migratory birds, and on through peaceful farmland and hills near the Serra de Monchique. Expect scenic, quiet roads, perhaps even horse drawn carts, as we head toward the vibrant coastal town of Lagos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2662\" data-start=\"2485\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2498\" data-start=\"2485\"\u003eActivity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ride of 77.7km \/ 48.2mi\u003cbr data-end=\"2525\" data-start=\"2522\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2540\" data-start=\"2525\"\u003eHighlights:\u003c\/strong\u003e Arade River valley, rural Algarve landscapes\u003cbr data-end=\"2588\" data-start=\"2585\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2607\" data-start=\"2588\"\u003eAccommodations:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tivoli Lagos\u003cbr data-end=\"2625\" data-start=\"2622\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2635\" data-start=\"2625\"\u003eMeals:\u003c\/strong\u003e Breakfast \/ Lunch \/ Dinner\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2667\" data-start=\"2664\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2707\" data-start=\"2669\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2707\" data-start=\"2673\"\u003eDAY 6 – Sagres \u0026amp; Algarve Coast\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3004\" data-start=\"2709\"\u003eThis morning, we offer an optional shuttle to Sagres, the site of Prince Henry the Navigator’s famous 15th-century school of exploration. Set atop dramatic cliffs, it’s a must-see. In the afternoon, you can enjoy a boat ride along the Algarve coast, exploring its turquoise grottoes and sea caves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3186\" data-start=\"3006\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3019\" data-start=\"3006\"\u003eActivity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Optional visit to Sagres, afternoon boat ride\u003cbr data-end=\"3068\" data-start=\"3065\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3083\" data-start=\"3068\"\u003eHighlights:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sagres headland, coastal grottoes\u003cbr data-end=\"3120\" data-start=\"3117\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3139\" data-start=\"3120\"\u003eAccommodations:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tivoli Lagos\u003cbr data-end=\"3157\" data-start=\"3154\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3167\" data-start=\"3157\"\u003eMeals:\u003c\/strong\u003e Breakfast \/ Dinner\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"3191\" data-start=\"3188\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3217\" data-start=\"3193\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3217\" data-start=\"3197\"\u003eDAY 7 – Farewell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3321\" data-start=\"3219\"\u003eAfter breakfast, we offer shuttles to Faro Airport, the train station, or bus depot for onward travel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3423\" data-start=\"3323\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3336\" data-start=\"3323\"\u003eActivity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Departure transfers\u003cbr data-end=\"3359\" data-start=\"3356\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3374\" data-start=\"3359\"\u003eHighlights:\u003c\/strong\u003e Farewell from the Algarve\u003cbr data-end=\"3403\" data-start=\"3400\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3413\" data-start=\"3403\"\u003eMeals:\u003c\/strong\u003e Breakfast\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIncluded\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"innerList defaultList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHybrid or Road bicycle hire for the tour duration (e-bikes or race bikes available as optional extras).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eDaily breakfasts, 3 lunches, 6 dinners, and en route snacks available at all times from the van.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eEntrance fees to all scheduled historic sites, museums, and scenic natural parks.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePick up and drop off before and after your tour from convenient locations.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"1737242231\" class=\"dmNewParagraph\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"1654303128\" class=\"dmNewParagraph\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"1494866672\" class=\"dmNewParagraph\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"dmNewParagraph\" id=\"1558915402\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAt times routes, hotels, activities, etc. may change if required to ensure or improve the trip experience.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"dmNewParagraph\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"dmNewParagraph\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFAQ\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"dmNewParagraph\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"502\" data-start=\"201\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"240\" data-start=\"201\"\u003eWhat is the food like on this tour?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"243\" data-start=\"240\"\u003eThe Algarve offers a rich culinary experience centered around the sea. You’ll enjoy \u003cstrong data-end=\"371\" data-start=\"327\"\u003efreshly grilled fish, octopus, and clams\u003c\/strong\u003e, along with traditional stews, pastries, and regional wines. Meals are carefully curated to highlight \u003cstrong data-end=\"501\" data-start=\"474\"\u003eauthentic local flavors\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"762\" data-start=\"504\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"540\" data-start=\"504\"\u003eWhen is the best time to travel?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"543\" data-start=\"540\"\u003eThe most enjoyable months are \u003cstrong data-end=\"590\" data-start=\"573\"\u003eMarch to June\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-end=\"620\" data-start=\"595\"\u003eSeptember to November\u003c\/strong\u003e, when temperatures are mild, skies are clear, and the roads and trails are quieter. These seasons are ideal for both cycling and sightseeing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1051\" data-start=\"764\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"801\" data-start=\"764\"\u003eWhat type of bike is recommended?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"804\" data-start=\"801\"\u003eA \u003cstrong data-end=\"832\" data-start=\"806\"\u003etouring or gravel bike\u003c\/strong\u003e is ideal for the Algarve’s mix of \u003cstrong data-end=\"928\" data-start=\"867\"\u003ecoastal roads, rolling inland trails, and some dirt paths\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003cstrong data-end=\"955\" data-start=\"930\"\u003eE-bikes are available\u003c\/strong\u003e and recommended for those who want to enjoy the scenery without the effort on steeper sections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1345\" data-start=\"1053\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1088\" data-start=\"1053\"\u003eHow challenging is the cycling?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"1091\" data-start=\"1088\"\u003eThis tour is \u003cstrong data-end=\"1116\" data-start=\"1104\"\u003emoderate\u003c\/strong\u003e, designed for recreational cyclists. Daily distances typically range from \u003cstrong data-end=\"1220\" data-start=\"1191\"\u003e40 to 70 km (25 to 43 mi)\u003c\/strong\u003e, with a mix of flat stretches, rolling hills, and occasional climbs. A \u003cstrong data-end=\"1324\" data-start=\"1292\"\u003esupport vehicle is available\u003c\/strong\u003e throughout the tour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1615\" data-start=\"1347\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1385\" data-start=\"1347\"\u003eWhere does the tour start and end?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"1388\" data-start=\"1385\"\u003eThe tour generally begins near \u003cstrong data-end=\"1429\" data-start=\"1419\"\u003eTavira\u003c\/strong\u003e, in the eastern Algarve, and finishes in or near \u003cstrong data-end=\"1488\" data-start=\"1479\"\u003eLagos\u003c\/strong\u003e on the western coast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"position: absolute; left: -17px; top: 2234.89px;\" id=\"gtx-trans\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"gtx-trans-icon\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"cttc-4e8f","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57451861410124,"sku":null,"price":1268.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/4864\/9910\/files\/Algarve_Bike_Tour_11.jpg?v=1752078312","url":"https:\/\/cycling-centuries.com\/products\/algarve-self-guided-bike-tour","provider":"CTTC Bike Tours","version":"1.0","type":"link"}