ACROSS THE ALGARVE GRAVEL TOUR GPX

A 6-Day Gravel Tour

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ACROSS THE ALGARVE GRAVEL TOUR – AT A GLANCE

340km across the Algarve

Bike Type: Gravel or E-Gravel

Number of riding days: 6

Tour Type: Self-Guided or Instant Download

Airport: Faro

Km / day: 45-57km

Elevation gain / day: 200-1200m

Overall Difficulty: Medium

Accommodation: 3/4* Hotels

What our customers are saying...

      
   Paradise Cycling Tours
   227 Google reviews 
  Write a review 
  
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   enrico leonardi 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Abbiamo fatto 5 giorni in bicicletta con Fiona come ns accompagnatrice nella Valle del Douro. Organizzazione eccellente. Ci ha tracciato un percorso fantastico con panorami bellissimi, abbiamo percorso  strade senza traffico e con fondo perfetto. Ottima scelta di Hotel e ristoranti. Fiona è stata fantastica nel farci trovare sempre i ns bagagli negli hotel. Le biciclette sia le e-bike che le muscolari perfette. Consiglio vivamente questa organizzazione.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Michela Oberti 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Secondo viaggio insieme a Fiona e a paradise cycling. Quest'anno Azzorre: isola di san miguel!!
Un viaggio meraviglioso. Organizzato tutto alla  perfezione. Grande professionista, la sua miglior qualità è la capacità di prevenire sempre, Anticipando, Qualsiasi bisogno. Tutto questo accompagnato da un sorriso
Contagioso. Super!!!!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Francesca Cutini 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I spent an unforgettable week in the Azores with Fiona as our group leader, cycling for seven days through the rolling hills, breathtaking lakes, and spectacular coastline of São Miguel Island.

Everything was perfectly planned. Every route, every stop, and every detail was thoughtfully organized, making the entire experience smooth, relaxing, and truly enjoyable.

Fiona is an outstanding guide—professional, knowledgeable, kind, and full of positive energy. Cycling with her is a real pleasure, and she made us feel welcome and cared for every single day.

She gave us seven days in paradise, filled with incredible landscapes, great company, and memories that will stay with me forever.
I can’t wait to ride with Fiona again—next time in Italy, exploring the beautiful roads and landscapes of Umbria.

Thank you, Fiona, for such a wonderful experience. I highly recommend Paradise Cycling Tours to anyone looking for an unforgettable cycling holiday.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Chiara Enrico 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing trip! Thank you for the perfect organization with attention to any details . Riding the island through small paths away from main roads made us feel in Paradise !
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Andrea Cattani 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Experience exceeding our expectations.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Liam Somers 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great day out with Paradise Cycle club on the gravel trails around Loulé. Top (Tomas) to tail (Fiona), everyone looked after and made to feel very welcome.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nicola Craxton 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As a newbie to gravel riding I cannot recommend Paradise Cycling more! Fiona and Tomas make everyone feel so welcome (no matter your level or experience) and these are genuinely social rides. No one is left behind and I’ve only ever felt supported and comfortable - it’s a wonderful cycling environment. I can’t thank you enough for all the tips and tricks, and for helping me enjoy gravel riding so much!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jamie Gall 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have used Paradise tours on various occasions now to show me some routes around the Algarve
Fiona and Tomas are top of there game in every way and super friendly and as we would say in Scotland good craic as well
Thanks again and hopefully see yous again  soon
Cheers guys 👍
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nuno S. 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic team , nice tour guides very helpful, amazing routes with good views and always time for that coffee stop on the ride…enjoyable cycling tours 👍👏🏻👏🏻
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Steve Richardson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great social cycling ride today with Fiona and Tomas from Paradise Cycling and the local riders giving me a warm welcome on my first ride with them.  Great tarte de maçã at the coffee break too.
  
 
  
  
 
     Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more

Do you want to explore the authentic interior of the Algarve and the best of its coastline? Our ‘Across the Algarve Gravel Tour’ could be the one for you! Here’s everything you need to know…

Across the Algarve 6-Day Gravel Tour

Download our route files for just €250 and rider our this stunning route from East to West across the Algarve. We will also send you a personal itinerary, with route notes, recommended stops and points of interest along the way.

The Algarve is a wonderful cycling destination, with far more to offer than busy resorts and beachside apartments. From Faro, the capital of the region, you will ride east, via small backroads and gravel tracks, through salt flats and wetlands, to Tavira, a gorgeous coastal town with plenty of Portuguese character. Contrast this with the grand splendour of Vila Real do Santo Antonio, on the Spanish border. Here you will turn inland.

The interior of the Algarve is unspoilt and unexplored by the average tourist. Travelling here is like stepping back in time, and slowing down the clock. Whitewashed hamlets tuck up against the hillsides, complete with their old lavadouros (laundry stations), and chickens and goats patter up and down the cobbled streets. The countryside is aromatic with rosemary, thyme and sage. The knarled arms of cork oaks reach overhead.

As you approach the Atlantic, you will meet the coast again. Here, red clifftops, adorned with windswept pines and cyprus trees, give way to sweeping sandy beaches, where the waves crash and tumble. Sagres, at Europe’s far South-Western tip, is shaped by the intense power of the Atlantic ocean. Breakers smash into the cliffs, creating an intricate coastline of beaches and coves to explore.

So, for a taste of the variety of the Algarve, on the coast and inland, try our Across the Algarve Gravel Tour.

⚡DOWNLOAD GPX FILES⚡

How challenging is the Across Algarve Gravel Tour?

With an average of 55km per day, this tour is suitable for most riders with some consistent gravel riding experience. There are also longer options available on some of the days for those looking for more of a challenge!

What is the terrain usually like on the Across Algarve Gravel Tour?

You will ride on good quality gravel tracks for 40% of each day of this tour. All our routes are fully checked-out by our team, so there is no hike-a-bike! Most tracks are also passable by 4×4, so they are not overly technical.

The remainder of each day is on quiet, low traffic backroads.

What type of scenery can I expect in the Algarve?

You will experience some of the Algarve’s stunning south coast before heading inland. In the hills, you will ride through the quiet Portuguese countryside, stopping in rural villages along the way.

You will finish on the coast again, on the cliffs west of Lagos, and ride to Sagres.

Are the roads safe in the Algarve?

Yes, in Portugal, the roads we plan for our clients are generally very safe for cycling, with many sections having light traffic, especially outside of major towns. The road surfaces is mostly well-maintained, and drivers in Portugal are accustomed to cyclists.

We hate traffic just as much as you do – we stick where ever possible to small backroads, and if on gravel – the best smooth gravel tracks we can find. (We don’t like hike-a-bike either!)

What type of bike is best for the Across Algarve Gravel Tour?

A gravel bike, or a sturdy road bike with gravel tyres is best for this tour. We can also offer bike hire, including e-bikes – just get in touch!

What is the best time of year to do this tour?

The climate in the Algarve is ideal for cycling most of the year around. It is possible to get some rain in the early parts of the year (Feb-April) however this doesn’t usually last too long. Many people would find July and August rather hot to be cycling.

Spring flowers in April, May and June are stunning, and September and October are also fantastic times to ride.

Can I adjust the Across Algarve Gravel Tour?

Of course. Either you can edit the route yourself, or speak to one of our team and we can help you with any adjustments you might want to make.

Please note that major changes to a tour will be considered a custom tour and we will have to charge extra for that service so that we can spend some time ensuring it’s exactly what you want!

Across the Algarve Gravel Tour – Itinerary

Day by day…

Day 1: Faro – Tavira

48km

170m

Welcome to the Algarve! Time for an easy ride along the gorgeous coastline to Tavira, where you will spend the night. This is a peaceful coastal town with plenty of authentic character.

Day 2: Tavira – Santa Catarina

50 – 70km

300 – 600m

This day you will head towards the very east of Portugal, looking to Spain– to Vila Real Santo Antonio and Castro Marim! En route you will enjoy the spectacular view at Cacela Velha (pictured right). There are two different route options today to suit your energy levels.

Day 3: Santa Catarina – Alte

55km

890m

Today, you will continue across the best small trails and roads of the central Algarve. This area is so quiet, and there are some hidden gems on the way that you will discover whilst riding.

You will finish the day in Alte, the Algarve’s best kept secret, along with pools to swim in, a waterfall and gorgeous small streets. You will love this village!.

Day 4: Alte – Silves

50 – 75km

1150m

From Alte you will cycle west through the orange groves and avocado plantations to the striking fortified town of Silves, ancient capital of the Algarve, packed full of history. You will pass the beautiful reservoir ‘Funcho’ on the way, which is spectacular.

There are 3 route options for today, including an awesome technical track along the reservoir to Silves, if you are up for a challenge!

Day 5: Silves – Lagos

65 – 75km

900m

Today will be a fantastic full day of riding, starting out inland, and finishing on the most spectacular coastline just west of Lagos. Doing the route this way you miss all the busy section of the coast between Albufeira and Portimao, sticking only to backroads and small quiet tracks.

Day 6: Lagos – Sagres

60km

900m

Today you will finish at Cape St Vicente – the furthest south western point of mainland Europe.

The tracks to get there are fantastic –finishing at the famous lighthouse on the cliffs.

What’s the best option for you?

	🗺 Self‑Guided Tour	⚡ Instant Download Tour
GPX Files	✅	✅
Detailed Daily Overview & Route Preview	✅	✅
Recommended Cafés en Route	✅	✅
Points of Interest	✅	✅
Airport Transfers	✅	❌
Luggage Transfers and/or Support Vehicle	Optional extra	Optional extra
24/7 WhatsApp Support	✅	❌
Restaurant Booking	✅	❌
Accommodation	✅	❌
Breakfast	✅	❌
Bike Rental	Optional extra	Recommnded Providers
Civil Liability Insurance	✅	❌

⚡Download Route Files Now! ⚡

✅ Tried and tested route files in GPX format
✅ Detailed daily itinerary
✅ Recommended cafés en route
✅ Points of interest
✅ Points of caution - e.g. river crossings
✅ WhatsApp contact with a Paradise guide

Please note that our luggage transfer deal only applies to groups of up to 5 riders. If you are a group of 6 or more, please get in touch via the contact form.

Looking for a custom route?

Our Bespoke Route Design service allows you to ride the trip of your dreams, without any of the hassle. We have 15 years of collective experience riding in the Algarve, and we love to create new routes which showcase the best of cycling in Portugal.

Get in in touch

Would you like some more information about this tour? Drop us a line and one of our friendly team will be in touch with you within one working day.

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REVIEWS

      
   Paradise Cycling Tours
   227 Google reviews 
  Write a review 
  
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   enrico leonardi 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Abbiamo fatto 5 giorni in bicicletta con Fiona come ns accompagnatrice nella Valle del Douro. Organizzazione eccellente. Ci ha tracciato un percorso fantastico con panorami bellissimi, abbiamo percorso  strade senza traffico e con fondo perfetto. Ottima scelta di Hotel e ristoranti. Fiona è stata fantastica nel farci trovare sempre i ns bagagli negli hotel. Le biciclette sia le e-bike che le muscolari perfette. Consiglio vivamente questa organizzazione.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Michela Oberti 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Secondo viaggio insieme a Fiona e a paradise cycling. Quest'anno Azzorre: isola di san miguel!!
Un viaggio meraviglioso. Organizzato tutto alla  perfezione. Grande professionista, la sua miglior qualità è la capacità di prevenire sempre, Anticipando, Qualsiasi bisogno. Tutto questo accompagnato da un sorriso
Contagioso. Super!!!!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Francesca Cutini 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I spent an unforgettable week in the Azores with Fiona as our group leader, cycling for seven days through the rolling hills, breathtaking lakes, and spectacular coastline of São Miguel Island.

Everything was perfectly planned. Every route, every stop, and every detail was thoughtfully organized, making the entire experience smooth, relaxing, and truly enjoyable.

Fiona is an outstanding guide—professional, knowledgeable, kind, and full of positive energy. Cycling with her is a real pleasure, and she made us feel welcome and cared for every single day.

She gave us seven days in paradise, filled with incredible landscapes, great company, and memories that will stay with me forever.
I can’t wait to ride with Fiona again—next time in Italy, exploring the beautiful roads and landscapes of Umbria.

Thank you, Fiona, for such a wonderful experience. I highly recommend Paradise Cycling Tours to anyone looking for an unforgettable cycling holiday.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Chiara Enrico 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing trip! Thank you for the perfect organization with attention to any details . Riding the island through small paths away from main roads made us feel in Paradise !
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Andrea Cattani 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Experience exceeding our expectations.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Liam Somers 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great day out with Paradise Cycle club on the gravel trails around Loulé. Top (Tomas) to tail (Fiona), everyone looked after and made to feel very welcome.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nicola Craxton 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As a newbie to gravel riding I cannot recommend Paradise Cycling more! Fiona and Tomas make everyone feel so welcome (no matter your level or experience) and these are genuinely social rides. No one is left behind and I’ve only ever felt supported and comfortable - it’s a wonderful cycling environment. I can’t thank you enough for all the tips and tricks, and for helping me enjoy gravel riding so much!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jamie Gall 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have used Paradise tours on various occasions now to show me some routes around the Algarve
Fiona and Tomas are top of there game in every way and super friendly and as we would say in Scotland good craic as well
Thanks again and hopefully see yous again  soon
Cheers guys 👍
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nuno S. 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic team , nice tour guides very helpful, amazing routes with good views and always time for that coffee stop on the ride…enjoyable cycling tours 👍👏🏻👏🏻
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Steve Richardson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great social cycling ride today with Fiona and Tomas from Paradise Cycling and the local riders giving me a warm welcome on my first ride with them.  Great tarte de maçã at the coffee break too.
  
 
  
  
 
     Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more