Highlights

The route, which can be around 60km or 80km, has been specifically designed for a mixture of abilities. There are few hills and most of the roads are traffic-free and smooth under wheel. But if you want to push yourself just that little bit harder, you can simply up the pace.

Depending on your preference and ability, we can start the tour from our shop in central Albufeira (and this will provide an extra challenge as you climb a couple of small hills out of town). Alternatively, we can transfer you to the quaint old town of Paderne, shaving a good 20km off the overall distance, and avoiding that first hill.

Paderne is set in a lush green valley, making for a very pleasant start to your ride. It is also the gateway to an expansive and peaceful rural landscape that is punctuated by sleepy villages and working farms. It’s a far cry from the bustling tourist destinations that hug the coast.

As we navigate our way along quiet roads (you can easily go ten minutes without seeing a single car), there is plenty to arouse the senses and, as you take in the fresh country air, you can’t help but feel energised. The beautiful scenery makes for an extremely pleasurable ride, where the kilometres just seem to disappear without you really noticing!

Our coffee stop is in the small working town of Algoz, at a fabulous local café that prepares some of the best Tosta Mistas (toasted cheese and ham sandwiches) in the area. Or you can sample some of their freshly made cakes; you will certainly have earned it after forty-odd kms of steady cycling.

Back on the road we take a shortcut through the smallest of villages and, as we skirt the edge of Paderne, with its orange orchards and nurseries, we join a long, straight road, perfect for a quick sprint before we reach the end of the ride. (if you have opted for the longer ride, you still have around 10km to go, but it’s mostly downhill back to Albufeira, so you can still end with a sprint!).

We will be back in plenty of time for you to chill by your hotel pool or visit one of the many fine beaches for which the Algarve is renowned.

Price:

€60 per person for quality aluminium framed road bike

€70 per person for quality carbon fibre framed road bike

INCLUDED:

• Cycling mainly on smooth & quiet tarmac roads
• Transfer from your accommodation in the central Algarve region
• Cafe stop
• Insurance.

NOT INCLUDED:

• Water and sun cream, which we recommend that you bring along.