When you think of Portugal and the Algarve, you don't think of a classic "biking holiday" - but since two long-distance cycle paths lead from the southwestern end of Europe to Spain, the Algarve has become an ideal area for cycling holidaymakers. Cycling tours in Portugal have been very popular since then. Especially When the sun no longer shines so mercilessly from the sky in the low season, the time has come to discover the country and people in the south of Portugal by bike.
© Depositphotos.com/Skrypko Ievgen
Cycling in the Algarve Via Algarviana and Ecovia
The Ecovia and Via Algarviana are two long-distance cycle paths in the Algarve that start on the Costa Vicentina, the most southwestern region of Europe.
The Via Algarviana started out as a hiking trail, but cyclists soon discovered the beautiful route too. Local athletes eventually developed a cycling route that runs along roads, forest paths and field paths along the original hiking trail. Parts of the route that cannot be covered by bike are bypassed. The first stage leads from the coast into the hinterland to the hills of the Serra de Monchique. The route is quite demanding - but the unique mountain landscape makes up for the effort. Once you have reached the highest point, Foia, after further stages, you can roll down the mountains to Silves at the end of a demanding bike tour.
The character of the “Ecovia” is completely different. This cycle path runs closer to the coast with its dunes, lagoons and beaches. Almond and orange trees line the path. At Praia de Galé you can observe flocks of flamingos and admire other migratory birds.
Vacation for everyone
Cycling tours in Portugal can of course also be done as day tours - they are becoming increasingly popular. Not only can you ride sections of the long-distance cycle paths, but you can also really "work out" on a mountain bike tour, which is particularly popular with younger cyclists. But even if the bike tours are demanding, it is possible to go on a cycling holiday in the Algarve without training. In many places, e-bikes are rented for relaxed cycling. If you prefer to travel in a group, you can join guided bike tours in Portugal, which are offered in large numbers along the Via Algarviana and the Ecovia.
Spring, autumn and winter are the best times to travel to the Algarve cycling holiday
In spring, when the sun has not yet developed its full strength, and in autumn and winter, when the sun is no longer shining so hot, cycling in the Algarve is a real pleasure. The climatic conditions are ideal - it is rarely hot, sometimes a warm jacket is a must, but it never gets really cold. But it's not just the weather that's a good reason to choose the off-season for bike tours. In spring, autumn and winter you hardly find any bathers and beachcombers who populate the Algarve in summer. Everything is a little quieter and more original.
Information on Ecovia can be found (unfortunately only in Portuguese) at http://www.ecoviasalgarve.org