AURORA GRAVEL RALLY SERIES
A 5-Stage Gravel Race, Portimão, Algarve
12th – 16th October 2026
🟢 Registrations open!
AURORA GRAVEL SERIES – PORTUGAL
History
When Julien Bouille got in touch with us in early 2025 about creating a gravel event in Portugal, we knew we had to be involved. We have always believed that the Algarve is an ideal place to host a gravel event but without a partner it would be impossible alone. The Aurora Gravel Rally Series will take place across Europe, with 3 events planned for 2026, of which Portugal will be one.
About
This is no ordinary race. The Aurora Gravel Series invites you to explore the authentic Algarve, which is what we are so passionate about here at Paradise.
The race uses rally-style timing, so, although you’ll be going full gas on the timed sections, in between you can ride your own pace on stunning gravel tracks, through the mountains of Monchique, atop the wild cliffs of the Altantic Ocean, and through rural villages where you will receive a warm Portuguese welcome.
Prices start at €1890 per person with our exclusive discount code.
STAGES
Prologue
22.4km
248m
Absolute fun during the prologue, which takes place on the Rally-Car track of the Portimao motor racing circuit. Set off for 4 crazy laps at full throttle!
Timed sections: 1
Stage 1
74km
1216m
Stage 1, which is fairly reasonable, will gently get you into the swing of things and presents no major difficulties. A hilly profile and playful trails!
Number of timed sections: 3
Stage 2
146km
1984m
Stage 2 is an adventure within an adventure. Yes, you guessed it, it’s the Queen’s stage! Head east for a 145 km crossing. But don’t forget that halfway along the trails, in the picturesque village of Alte, Bici Arte’s Café Gernamo awaits you with a Pasteis de Nata!
NUmber of timed sections: 3
Stage 3
72km
1775m
Stage 3 takes you to the roof of the Algarve. The popular Serra de Monchique awaits you, with its eucalyptus forests and panoramic views of the Algarve. A stop at Velochique Bike Café is highly recommended.
Number of timed sections: 3
Stage 4
105km
1333m
The fourth stage is the reward! We’ll take you to the ocean, on trails that look like they were designed to be ridden on a gravel bike one day!
Number of timed sections: 3
SCHEDULE
Registrations
November 1, 2025 until September 28, 2026 at 9am
October 11th 2026
Welcome party 6-8pm
October 12th 2026
Prologue
October 13th – 16th 2026
Stages 1 – 4
October 16th 7pm 2026
Afterparty!
FAQs
How many spaces are available?
There are just 200 seats on this race – don’t miss the opporunity to have the ride of a lifetime!
What's included with my booking?
- Accommodation in 4-star hotels for 6 nights (in shared rooms)
- Full board (with choice of diet)
- Starter kit
- Timed sector markers
- Timing
- GPS tracker with real-time position display
- Feed zones
- Mechanical assistance stand
- Bike wash station
- Secure storage space for bicycles
- Medical staff (paramedics)
- Chill zones
- Storage space for bike box
- Finisher’s medal
- After party with live music, food and drink tickets
- And finally, state-of-the-art organization
Do I need to navigate the route myself?
The timed sections are fully signposted. The non-timed liaison stages between are marked at key intersections, and you will follow the GPX route provided on your own navigation device.
What is partial rally-style timing?
Each stage includes up to three timed sections where you can go flat out, spread between longer liaison sections where you can relax and enjoy the scenery, stop for a coffee and make the most of the Portuguese hospitality.
This system also means that no result is known until the end of the final day!
What bike do I need?
A gravel bike is essential for this race. We can arrange bike hire and delivery for you through our partners at FunBike if you would rather leave your own bike at home.
What food and accommodation is provided?
The basic package includes 6 nights in fantastic 4* accommodation in Portimão, perfectly located for the event. The price is based on occupancy in shared rooms, however you can upgrade to a private room, and to a 5* hotel if you fancy an extra treat!
Breakfast and dinner are included.
