Explore the eastern Algarve by bike, between the sea and typical villages.

For this first day of cycling, you'll follow the coast, passing through several seaside resorts with diverse atmospheres. You'll begin in Monte Gordo, known for its long promenade and vast sandy beach. The route is pleasant and easy going before you reach the shaded paths of the Mata Nacional das Dunas Litorais pine forest. Sandy paths and the scent of pine accompany your progress.

Continue on to Manta Rota, a peaceful village bordering a pristine beach, then reach Cacela Velha, perched above the lagoon. This whitewashed village offers a lovely viewpoint, with its church and the remains of its old fort. A stop is a must to enjoy the panorama. A detour to Fabrica allows for a break by the water, in a tranquil, local atmosphere.

The route continues along tracks and small roads to Cabanas, a charming fishing village, before skirting the salt marshes leading to Tavira. The town, bisected by the Gilão River, reveals a rich heritage, from its Roman bridge to its traditional alleyways.

You leave Tavira for a leisurely stretch along the coast. You pass through Santa Luzia, a village renowned for its octopus fishing, where the atmosphere remains authentic. You continue to Pedras del Rei, the starting point for a small train that leads to Barril beach and a former tuna fishing village.

You then reach Fuseta, a pleasant lunch stop overlooking the lagoon, with its grilled fish restaurants. The route then follows the Ecovia Litoral, a cycle path that crosses the Algarve from east to west. You cycle through the heart of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, between lagoons, canals, and salt marshes still worked using traditional methods.

The flat, flowing route is punctuated by open views of the salt flats and the breeze from the Atlantic Ocean. You eventually reach Olhão, a lively fishing port whose charm is defined by its Moorish architecture. Weather permitting, you can take a boat to the neighboring islands and their unspoiled beaches.

You leave the coast behind and head inland to discover another side of the Algarve. The route winds through a peaceful countryside dotted with villages and hamlets, nestled in the heart of agricultural areas. The atmosphere here is more authentic, set to the rhythm of local life. A stop at a roadside café is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a coffee and some homemade pastries.

You continue along quiet roads to the outskirts of Almancil, a lively town located on the edge of the Golden Triangle. Nearby, the São Lourenço church is worth a stop to admire its detailed azulejos tiles and its gilded Baroque-style altar.

The day ends in Loulé, a lively and pleasant market town. Your accommodation, located in the historic center, allows you to easily enjoy the narrow streets and local atmosphere at the end of the day.

This day offers you a break to discover Loulé at your own pace. You can stroll through the historic center, exploring its cobbled streets, small shops, and hidden gems. The town lends itself well to exploration, with its galleries, museums, and chapels. The covered market is also a lively place to find some local specialties.

You also have the option of visiting the salt mines, accessible on a guided tour. This underground route, 230m deep, extends for approximately 1.3km and allows you to observe ancient geological formations while discovering the uses of rock salt.

For lunch, numerous restaurants and cafes offer simple and fresh local cuisine. The afternoon can be spent relaxing, perhaps by your accommodation's pool, before continuing your stay.

This stage is more challenging, with a hilly route north of Loulé, but the scenery is well worth the effort. Leaving the town, the traffic quickly eases as you climb towards Querença, a hilltop village with a tranquil charm. In the church square, you can stop for a coffee and some local specialties like chouriço or medronho.

You then continue your journey through the countryside, crossing a peaceful valley before joining a surprisingly quiet road. The panoramas open up onto rural landscapes dotted with small villages. Passing through Salir, you can take a detour to Rocha da Pena, a rock formation offering a panoramic view for those who wish to walk a bit.

Arriving in Alte marks the end of the stage. This village is known for its whitewashed houses, natural springs, and peaceful atmosphere. You can enjoy the village center and its cafes to relax after this day.

You leave Alte heading west along quiet, rolling roads towards Messines, an agricultural village with narrow streets arranged around its church. Leaving the town, you enter verdant valleys dotted with small hamlets and cultivated fields.

The route continues along beautiful tracks, through dense vegetation, to the Arade Dam. This vast reservoir offers open and unspoiled landscapes. A few climbs punctuate this section, but you are rewarded by crossing the dam followed by a pleasant descent.

Next, you'll travel to Silves, a former Moorish capital situated on the banks of the Rio Arade. The town boasts a rich history, notably its well-preserved castle which overlooks the surrounding area. A climb up the cobbled streets leads to the castle, offering a breathtaking view. The atmosphere is peaceful, perfect for exploring the narrow streets and relaxing on a terrace.

Depending on your schedule, you can enjoy a final moment in Silves before your departure. You will then be transferred from your accommodation to your return point.

This transfer marks the end of your cycling trip through the Algarve.