This challenging, guided cross country mountain bike holiday spans the whole of the Via Algarviana, a little known network of ancient tracks connecting the people of Southern Portugal to their land and settlements. lt will challenge your skills, with over 300 kilometers (and a daily average of 1500m altitude) of off-road fun!      

ITINERARY

Day 1 - Wednesday 9th November

Transfer Loulé - Alcoutim

Riding to Vaqueiros, distance 60km/elevation gain 1570m

We will transfer you and your bikes at 07h30 from Loulé to Alcoutim, on the Spanish border, ready to begin your trip. The first day of riding is an excellent introduction to mountain biking on the Via Agarviana; deserted tracks, river crossings, isolated hamlets and some serious climbs.  Your destination for the day is Vaqueiros, a little populated area, where cork and medronheiro (strawberry tree) grow abundantly.

Day 2 - Thursday 10th November

Riding to Salir, distance 65km/elevation gain 2180m

This is a challenging day as you head through the mountains and valleys, northwest of Tavira. But it is well worth it for the stunning views and the opportunity to experience agricultural mountain life as you cycle through cork tree forests and beautiful farmland. Your destination is a rural bed and breakfast near to the quaint town of Salir

Day 3 - Friday 11th November

Riding to Silves, distance 66km/elevation gain 1370m

This is a day of contrasting scenery as you pass through the fertile farmland surrounding São Bartolomeu de Messines, towards the imposing Funcho reservoir. You complete the day with a climb up the mountains that surround Silves, but are rewarded with the views of the impressive Moorish castle that dominates the town.

Day 4 - Saturday 12th November

Riding to Monchique, distance 32km/elevation gain 1400m

Today you cover less distance, but there are a series of climbs in the forested hillsides leaving Silves. After crossing the Odelouca river you enter the Monchique mountains and the longest climb on the Via Algarviana, towards Picota.  But if the 360º views on the summit do not make it worthwhile, then the descent to Monchique through the dense eucalyptus, chestnut and cork forests will!

Day 5 - Sunday 13th November

Riding to Cabo de São Vicente, distance 92km/elevation gain 1450m

Transfer Cabo de São Vicente - Loulé

On a clear day, you can enjoy amazing views from the top of Foía before leaving Monchique through the forestry trails to the typical mountain village of Marmelete. From here it is comfortable cruising downhill and into the wide open landscapes of the Vicentina Natural Park, as you approach Cape St. Vincent and the end of your ride. We will transfer you from Cabo de São Vicente back to Loulé.

The price for this guided mountain bike trip is €395,00 pp.

Included:

• 4 nights shared accommodation in rural hotels/lodges, b&b
• Daily luggage transfer
• Experienced mountain bike guide
• Support vehicle on stand-by.

Not included:

• MTB rental (available at €90,00 for the 5 riding days)
• Lunch, snacks and beverages & dinners 
• Travel insurance, highly recommended.   

Is the Via Algarviana tour for me?

This MTB adventure is suitable for people over the age of 15 with solid mountain bike experience and a good fitness level. Please make sure that you and your equipment are in excellent condition for this demanding week.

Bookings and enquiries: [email protected]

In cooperation with Algarve Bike Holidays:

Supporting Via Algarviana (GR 13) maintenance by: