SERRA ALGARVIANA SELF-GUIDED TOUR

A 4-Day Gravel Tour

Available for instant download?  ✅

Gallery – click or swipe for more…

SERRA ALGARVIANA – AT A GLANCE


Bike Type: Gravel

Number of riding days: 4

Tour Type: Self-Guided or Instant Download

Airport: Faro

Km / day: 45-57km

Elevation gain / day: 200-1200m

Overall Difficulty: Medium

Accommodation: Rural Hotels

Are you an experienced gravel rider looking for a challenge and a deep dive into the heart of the rural Algarve? The Serra Algarviana could be the one for you…

 

Serra Algarviana 4-Day Gravel Tour

Here is our bespoke alternative to the Via Algarviana – a 100% rideable route east to west across the Algarve. No more ‘hike-a-bike!’

The Algarve is a wonderful cycling destination, with a fabulous climate, delicious local food, and an intricate network of tracks just waiting to be explored.

We have designed this as a great rideable alternative to the Via Algarviana, a 300km walking trail that goes from East to West across the Algarve. We love the Via Algarviana – it’s a beautiful path that takes you through authentic interior Algarve villages and deep into rural Portugal. However a lot of it is really hard to ride, even on an E-MTB. Our tour encompasses the best of this trail whilst avoiding the ‘hike-a-bike’ sections, and includes some of our own favourite tracks and local highlights.

It all starts in Alcoutim, on the bank of the Guadiana River. This ancient town has been shaped by its history as a border settlement, with its Moorish castle dominating the landscape. From here, an intricate network of tracks await you, ready to take you up into the Serra do Caldeirão, a rolling expanse of hills carpeted with eucalyptus and cork oak.

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 gnarled arms of cork oaks reach overhead.

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.

How challenging is this tour?

This is one of our more demanding adventures, created for experienced gravel riders who are comfortable covering up to 80 km per day and tackling significant elevation gains. Certain sections of the route are remote, meaning you’ll need to be self-sufficient for stretches of the day — but that sense of isolation is part of what makes this journey so special.

What levels of support do you provide?

You can choose the level of support that suits you best. If you prefer a DIY approach, you can download this tour instantly — giving you access to the route files, accommodation suggestions, and our recommended restaurants and cafés.

Alternatively, you can book the self-guided option, where we handle all the logistics for you. Scroll down to explore both options in more detail.

What is the terrain usually like on this tour?

The route is predominantly made up of fantastic gravel tracks, with a few short sections of fun singletrack. In places where the original Via Algarviana becomes unsuitable for cycling (think rocky footpaths and river crossings) our itinerary diverts onto well-chosen alternative trails and quiet backroads.

What type of scenery can I expect along the way?

You will ride through rolling hills carpeted with dense forests of cork oak and eucalyptus, with vistas stretching for miles, often all the way to the coast. In the lowland sections you will cycle through quaint rural countryside, with orchards of citrus fruits, olive groves, and pomegranate.

As you head west you will enter the Costa Vicentina Natural Park, one of Portugal’s most important protected coastal regions. Its wild, dramatic and a very fitting way to end your journey!

Are the roads safe in Portugal?

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 surface 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 this tour?

A gravel or mountain bike is essential for this tour. Don’t forget that we also offer bike hire, including e-bikes – just get in touch!

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

The Algarve enjoys excellent cycling weather for most of the year. Spring is particularly stunning — from April to June the region is covered in wildflowers, and temperatures are perfect for long days on the bike. Autumn is equally beautiful, with golden colours and warm, settled conditions from September through October.

You may encounter some rain between February and April; it usually passes quickly, but it can make the trails a little tougher. The height of summer — July and August — is generally too hot for comfortable riding unless you’re already well acclimatised. For most riders, spring and autumn offer the very best experience.

Can I adjust this 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!

 

What type of hotels can I expect?

You’ll spend most nights in charming, locally-run guesthouses and small hotels — the kind of places that truly reflect the character of the region. These stays offer an authentic taste of local culture, warm hospitality, and a peaceful place to unwind after a day on the bike.

Availability is often limited, making this tour ideal for couples, solo travellers, and small groups. If you’re planning a trip for a larger group, just get in touch and we’ll do everything we can to arrange suitable accommodation.

 

Serra Algarviana – Itinerary

N2 cycling tour

Day by day…

Day 1: Alcoutim to Cortelha


72km

1600m

From the banks of the river in Alcoutim you will climb into the hills through orchards of carob, olive and almond trees. The climbing today may feel continuous, but the views will only get better! As you ride into the Serra do Caldeirão, the forest thickens, with eucalyptus and cork oak dominating the landscape.

From Cachopo you can take an extra 8km loop if you are feeling strong. Either way, by the time you reach Cortelha you will have earnt your supper and a good night’s rest!

Day 2: Cortelha to Silves


85km

1450m

This morning you will have the joy of riding high in the hills with incredible views all around. Take a moment to savour it from the summit at Malhão, before you descend on an awesome gravel track. Halfway through your ride you will pass through Alte, a gorgeous whitewashed village with a fantastic bike cafe.

The afternoon highlight might be the track along the Funcho reservoir – its a litte technical in places but super fun to ride. Silves is an ancient town, once the capital of the Algarve. The red fortress towers over the maze of cobbled streets below.

 

Tour Image

Day 3: Silves to Monchique


55km

1600m

You will roll through typical Algarve countryside this morning, through orchards and little villages. Its a relatively gentle start but be sure to set off in good time, as the the climb to Foia is not to be rushed – its simply stunning.

The ascent is long but not steep, allowing you to enjoy the vistas as they open up to the north. On a clear day from the summit you can see all the way to Sagres!

Day 4: Monchique to Sagres


85km

1100m

Your reward for the climb comes this morning! You will descend on rural tracks towards the stunning Odiáxere reservoir and through miles of quiet Algarve countryside. As you approach the coast you will enter the Costa Vincentina Natural Park, an important reserve for birds and marine life including otters!

Cape St Vincent, the most southwesterly tip of Europe, is wild and windswept; a dramatic finish to your journey across the Algarve! From here its a short ride to Sagres and your hotel.

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 Recomended Providers

4-Day Self-Guided Tour Pricing

Low Season (Dec, Jan, Feb)

Medium Season (Mar, April, Oct, Nov)

High Season (May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sept)

Optional Extras

*Please note that the self-guided tour prices above are based on two people sharing a twin or double room. For anyone sleeping in their own room, the single supplement applies.

High Season Single Supplement €150/night pp extra
Medium Season Single Supplement €130/night pp extra
Low Season Single Supplement €110/night pp extra

Other Optional Extras

Luggage transfers and mechanical support vehicle: €300 per group per riding day
Luggage transfers: €110 per group per riding day
Guiding: €160 per group per riding day
Bike Rental: See our options here
Massage: on request
Other 'off-the-bike' activities: on request

⚡Download this tour now! ⚡

Budget-conscious and happy managing your own logistics? Check out what's included here and get our instant download package to start your planning right away!

 

CUSTOM, CLUB AND LARGE GROUP CYCLING TOURS

 

Have you been tasked with organising a group or club trip?

We have run successful trips for large groups (up to 40 people) in the past, either point to point or staying in one or two places.

Club pricing can start as low as €925 per person with dinner, support vehicles, guiding and accommodation included. We can also arrange any bespoke tour for your club. In the past we have organised Madrid to Lisbon, Lisbon to Faro and multiple others. Get in touch using the form below to request a quote, or arrange a call to discuss your requirements further.

Liked the sound of this tour? You might also be interested in our other cycling holidays in Portugal...

6 + 7 =

Liked the sound of this Tour? You might also be interested in our other cycling holidays in Portugal…

Authentic Algarve Gravel Cycling Holiday

For the gravel riders. Enjoy an unforgettable off road / gravel cycling holiday in the Algarve! Let us introduce you to the best tracks and trails in the beautiful Algarve, both along the coast and inland.

Price range: €1.850,00 through €3.140,00

Alentejo Adventure Self-Guided Gravel Bikepacking Tour

For the bikepackers. An adventure is on the horizon! Escape your normal routine and join us for a truly new and exciting gravel bikepacking experience into the Alentejo.

Faro to Lisbon Self-Guided Gravel Tour

Road Cycling Holiday Portugal

For the gravel tourers. This is a fantastic gravel trip for anyone wanting to experience a wide range of landscapes - west coast, rolling Alentejo plains and the beautiful Algarve backroads.

Price range: €795,00 through €1.295,00

Authentic Algarve Road Cycling Holiday

Road Cycling Holiday Portugal

For the roadies. An unforgettable week of road riding in the Algarve. Not just bikes – this cycling holiday is also about enjoying the Portuguese culture, gastronomy and landscapes too!

Price range: €1.850,00 through €3.140,00

738km North to South N2 Cycling Tour

Road Cycling Holiday Portugal

For the challenge-seekers. A stunning road cycling holiday with a goal to achieve! Put your cycling legs to the test during this 6-day Challenge. A total of 738km, along Europes longest road.

Price range: €1.550,00 through €1.950,00

FAQ’s

Where can I find the self-guided tour prices?

Each self-guided cycling tour has it's own pricing - just head to the specific tour page and you will find all the details there. Costs will depend on group numbers, as well as time of the year.

Can I request specific GPX files for my own trip?

Yes! We now have GPX files ready to download instantly on some self-guided tours. We can also create custom GPX files for you too.

Do you have tours for beginners too?

Yes! For example our EcoVia Self-Guided Coast Tour is perfect for cyclists who want a relatively flat cycle. We'd recommend starting with this one!

I would like to create my own custom holiday - can you help?

Of course! We would love to help you put together the perfect cycling holiday for you and your group.

We can assist with:

  • Booking hotels, villas or BnB's
  • Hiring bikes
  • Plotting cycling routes (road or off-road)
  • Hiring guides
  • Car Hire
  • Booking restaurants
  • Recommending cafes
  • Airport transfers

We charge really reasonable prices for all of the above, making your life as the organiser really easy. Let us know what you have planned and we will help you plan an unforgettable week of cycling in Portugal for you!

What is your cancellation policy?

You can book in confidence with a very flexible cancellation policy which can be read in detail here.

We strongly recommend that you travel with adequate travel insurance to cover the cost of flight cancellation and holiday cancellation.

 

Where are you based?

We are based in the central Algarve, in the south of Portugal. But we run road and gravel tours all over the country!

Do you take clubs or large groups?

We LOVE large groups! The more the merrier. Contact us and lets us know what you are thinking of and we will do our best to turn your ideas into a reality.

Get in touch!

#OURPARADISE