Portugal
Algarve
Trip Details
Southern Portugal’s coastline has long drawn travellers in search of golden beaches and charming seaside towns. Often described as ‘blessed with windswept dunes, powdery sands, ochre cliffs, and natural grottoes’, this region is a feast for the senses.
Our thoughtfully crafted itinerary begins just south of Lisbon in Palmela and winds its way to Lagos, taking in the very best of the coast along the way. You’ll stay in a curated selection of distinctive hotels—from historic pousadas to welcoming rural inns—each offering its own touch of local character and comfort.
Highlights
- Small groups and passionate local guides
- Local guide
- Unforgettable routes like Palmela to Lagos
- Local cuisine in authentic restaurants
- Carefully selected boutique hotels
Package Included
- Expert guides throughout the journey
- Support vehicle during the route
- 6 nights accommodation
- Daily breakfasts, 4 lunches and all dinners except 1
- Entry to tastings, selected historical sites and museums
- Detailed GPS routes
- Luggage transport
Not included
- Bicycle hire
Your journey begins in Palmela, located 40 km south of Lisbon. You can easily reach the hotel by taxi, or by taking a train and bus from Lisbon.
The trip concludes in Lagos, from where you can return to Lisbon by bus or train. The bus journey takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes and costs around €20. For schedules and bookings, visit www.renex.pt or www.rede-expressos.pt.
Day 1 · Palmela
Arrive in Palmela and settle into the stunning Pousada Castelo, a luxurious castle hotel. If you’re coming directly from Lisbon airport or have already spent time in the city, Palmela is easily accessible. We suggest arriving by early afternoon so you can enjoy a short warm-up ride to Aldeia Rica, known for its traditional tile-making and nearby wineries.
Ride distance: 28 km, 37 km, or 48 km
Day 2 · Grândola
Cycle through the scenic countryside to Setúbal, where you’ll take a ferry across the estuary—keep your eyes peeled for dolphins. From the opposite shore, ride through cork forests and rice fields to the town of Grândola, where you’ll stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel.
Ride distance: 55 km
Day 3 · Tres Marias
Today’s route takes you through the Serra de Grândola towards the coast. Stop for lunch and explore the castle in Santiago do Cacém before continuing to the fishing village of Porto Covo. Your stay tonight is at Tres Marias, part of the Casas Brancas network of rural inns. For dinner, the nearby Tasca do Celso in Milfontes is highly recommended.
Ride distance: 68 km
Day 4 · Odeceixe
Begin with a morning ride to Vila Nova de Milfontes and the dramatic Cabo Sardão headlands, following cliffside roads past Zambujeira do Mar and its lovely beaches. Spend the night in Odeceixe, one of the region’s most beautiful villages, at the charming Casas do Moinho.
Ride distance: 62 km
Day 5 · Sagres
Today’s ride leads you along the coast to Sagres, once considered the edge of the world. It was from here that Henry the Navigator launched the Age of Discoveries. For dinner, we suggest Vila Velha, a favourite for traditional Portuguese fare. Stay at Memmo Baleeira, a stylish contemporary hotel and member of Design Hotels.
Ride distance: 64 km*
Day 6 · Lagos
Ride eastward along the Algarve coastline. Stop at the windswept Cape of São Vicente, then pedal past orchards of almond and orange trees on your way to Lagos. Your final hotel is the comfortable Marina Club Lagos Resort, with its marina views, excellent spa, and inviting pool.
Ride distance: 44 km; 500 m gain
Day 7 · Departure
From Lagos, you may travel to Faro Airport or return to Lisbon by bus (approx. 4h20) or train (approx. 3h30). Tickets can be booked up to 8 days in advance for buses and up to 30 days in advance for trains.
Bus information: www.rede-expressos.pt
Train information: www.cp.pt
*Distances and elevation gains may vary depending on selected accommodation.
Pousada Castelo, Palmela
A proud member of Historic Hotels of Europe, this luxurious and historic property is set within the castle walls of Palmela. It offers an elegant stay with breathtaking views and a unique atmosphere steeped in heritage.
Villa Center, Grândola
Situated in the heart of Grândola, Villa Center is a calm and welcoming retreat where comfort and quality are paramount. Ideal for a relaxing overnight stay in a convenient town location.
Casas do Moinho, Odeceixe
This charming property features a collection of whitewashed cottages, each with its own unique character. With a swimming pool and a superb location near the picturesque village of Odeceixe, it offers a peaceful and authentic experience.
Memmo Baleeira Hotel, Sagres
This stylish 4-star hotel offers outstanding facilities, including a restaurant, bar and lounge, and an outdoor pool with stunning ocean views. Guests also enjoy access to a spa area with massage treatments, sauna, gym, and heated indoor pool.
Marina Club, Lagos
Located by the scenic marina of Lagos and just 800 metres from the beach, this comfortable 4-star resort-style hotel features spacious rooms and a large outdoor pool—perfect for unwinding after a day of cycling.
