Duration
7 days/ 6 nights/5 stages
Trip type
Biking
Accomodation
Selected
Premium
Accommodations offering top-tier comfort, distinctive character, and unique charm. Includes 5-star hotels, the finest rooms in 4-star hotels when 5-star options are unavailable, historic properties, and intimate boutique hotels with a refined atmosphere.
Selected
Comfortable and hand-picked accommodations in central locations, offering a mix of quality and local charm. Features 4-star hotels, 3-star hotels when 4-star options are unavailable, charming guesthouses, and small traditional accommodations that reflect local culture and hospitality.
Casual
Comfortable and practical accommodations for relaxed travelers. Includes 3-star hotels, 2-star hotels when 3-star options are unavailable, and small, simple lodgings that provide an essential but pleasant stay.
Glamping
A unique and stylish outdoor experience blending nature with comfort. Encompasses luxury tents, elegant bungalows, barrel bungalows, and treehouses, offering an adventurous yet refined retreat.
Accommodations offering top-tier comfort, distinctive character, and unique charm. Includes 5-star hotels, the finest rooms in 4-star hotels when 5-star options are unavailable, historic properties, and intimate boutique hotels with a refined atmosphere.
Selected
Comfortable and hand-picked accommodations in central locations, offering a mix of quality and local charm. Features 4-star hotels, 3-star hotels when 4-star options are unavailable, charming guesthouses, and small traditional accommodations that reflect local culture and hospitality.
Casual
Comfortable and practical accommodations for relaxed travelers. Includes 3-star hotels, 2-star hotels when 3-star options are unavailable, and small, simple lodgings that provide an essential but pleasant stay.
Glamping
A unique and stylish outdoor experience blending nature with comfort. Encompasses luxury tents, elegant bungalows, barrel bungalows, and treehouses, offering an adventurous yet refined retreat.
Levels
Moderate to Challenging
We categorize our trips based on a range of activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between.
Route
From 185 km/115 mi to 192 km/119 mi
Recommended airport
Lisbon Airport and Faro Airport
Recommended season
March to July & September to November
Overview
Prepare for an unforgettable adventure along Portugal's most unspoiled coastline! The Costa Vicentina brings together the romantic tranquillity of the Alentejo and the raw, untamed beauty of the Algarve’s wild shores. This is a land where nature reigns, with golden sands, hidden beaches, and rugged cliffs shaped by the fresh Atlantic breeze. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, the trails here offer not just a mild climate but also a window into the region’s authenticity. You’ll follow paths once trodden by fishermen and locals, discovering secluded coves and breathtaking fishing spots along the way. The cycling routes are rewarding, unveiling the stunning beauty of this protected coastline. As you pedal through the heart of the Rota Vicentina, you’ll experience a perfect blend of nature, rural charm, and unforgettable moments that will stay with you long after your journey ends.
Itinerary & tour plan
Your journey begins in Vila Nova de Milfontes, often referred to as the "Princess of the Alentejo". This coastal town offers a unique blend of sea and river landscapes, with golden beaches sheltered by cliffs and freshwater springs flowing from the mountains.
Stroll through the heart of the village with its whitewashed houses and historic fortress. Discover the beauty of the Mira River and the scenic Praia das Furnas, where nature's artistry takes centre stage. A perfect starting point for your adventure along the Costa Vicentina.
Stroll through the heart of the village with its whitewashed houses and historic fortress. Discover the beauty of the Mira River and the scenic Praia das Furnas, where nature's artistry takes centre stage. A perfect starting point for your adventure along the Costa Vicentina.
Your cycling adventure begins with a transfer to São Torpes, famous for its thermal waters and surf-friendly waves. From here the route unfolds along a rugged coastline dotted with secluded beaches and hidden coves. The relatively flat terrain makes it easy to take in the views and enjoy the fresh sea breeze.
As you ride, the air is filled with the scent of rosemary and thyme, while dramatic cliffs reveal sweeping views of the Atlantic. The day ends in Vila Nova de Milfontes, where you can sample the best local flavours in a traditional restaurant.
As you ride, the air is filled with the scent of rosemary and thyme, while dramatic cliffs reveal sweeping views of the Atlantic. The day ends in Vila Nova de Milfontes, where you can sample the best local flavours in a traditional restaurant.
Let’s start cycling the unspoilt beauty of the Southwest Alentejo Natural Park. The route takes you past dramatic cliffs, wild beaches and open fields, offering a true connection with nature. Gentle climbs lead to sweeping vistas where the ocean meets rugged landscapes.
Experience Cape Sardão, where white storks nest on the cliffs, a rare sight along the coast. Arriving at Zambujeira do Mar, panoramic views of the sea and hidden beaches greet you, creating the perfect setting to relax and enjoy the beauty of the coast.
Experience Cape Sardão, where white storks nest on the cliffs, a rare sight along the coast. Arriving at Zambujeira do Mar, panoramic views of the sea and hidden beaches greet you, creating the perfect setting to relax and enjoy the beauty of the coast.
Ride along the coast, where rural villages and secluded beaches reveal the charm of the region. The Alentejo’s open plains gradually give way to the Algarve’s rugged landscapes. Crossing the Seixe River, the natural border between these regions, offers one of the most spectacular views of the journey, with cliffs and wild beaches framing the iconic Odeceixe Beach, one of the 7 Wonders of Portugal.
As you approach Aljezur, rolling hills and cultivated fields shape the scenery. The town welcomes you with its medieval castle, standing proudly on a hilltop, offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Don’t miss the local market, where the flavors of Aljezur, including its renowned sweet potato treats, add a delicious finish to the day.
As you approach Aljezur, rolling hills and cultivated fields shape the scenery. The town welcomes you with its medieval castle, standing proudly on a hilltop, offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Don’t miss the local market, where the flavors of Aljezur, including its renowned sweet potato treats, add a delicious finish to the day.
Day 5
Aljezur to Sagres
Wild beaches and the legacy of great navigators (48 km/30 mi or 55 km/34 mi)
Aljezur to Sagres
Wild beaches and the legacy of great navigators (48 km/30 mi or 55 km/34 mi)
This stage along the Vincentian coast is both challenging and exhilarating, showcasing some of the region's most iconic landscapes. Ride past Bordeira Beach, one of the Algarve's widest and most striking stretches of sand, and Amado Beach, framed by dramatic cliffs in vivid shades of red and ochre, with intricate rock formations sculpted by the sea.
As you head towards Sagres, the wind and towering cliffs signal your approach to the south-western tip of Europe. Sagres Fortress, a historic landmark of Portuguese exploration, offers sweeping views of the Atlantic and a setting for a sunset. Enjoy this day rich in natural beauty and maritime history.
As you head towards Sagres, the wind and towering cliffs signal your approach to the south-western tip of Europe. Sagres Fortress, a historic landmark of Portuguese exploration, offers sweeping views of the Atlantic and a setting for a sunset. Enjoy this day rich in natural beauty and maritime history.
Your last day of cycling takes you along a coastal route that's a great mix of dramatic cliffs and farmland. Discover hidden coves and crystal-clear waters, which are perfect for a refreshing swim or just soaking up the scenery. You'll definitely want to stop by Praia da Luz, a lovely spot along the way.
When you arrive the final destination, Lagos, you'll find a vibrant city with ancient walls, historic churches, and an old slave market that reflects its rich maritime heritage. This town is the perfect place to mark the end of your journey, where history, culture and natural beauty come together.
When you arrive the final destination, Lagos, you'll find a vibrant city with ancient walls, historic churches, and an old slave market that reflects its rich maritime heritage. This town is the perfect place to mark the end of your journey, where history, culture and natural beauty come together.
At the end of your tour, we will arrange your transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule.
What is included?
What you get on this adventure
- Accommodation 6 nights BB, in double standard room
- Daily luggage transfer (one piece per person up to 23kg)
- City taxes
- Daily post-ride messages
- Access to the Ride With GPS app on your smartphone
What is not included
- Flights
- Insurance
- Meals and wine tastings (optional)
- Transfers from/to Faro airport
- Standard touring bicycle with cargo rack, a pannier bike bag, a handlebar bag and a spare inner tub
- Rental helmet
- Toolkit, puncture repair kit and pump
- Guide and support vehicle (price on request)
- E-Bike supplement (optional)
- GPS with loaded tracks (optional)
- Mechanical bike interventions made on the bikes without Authentic Trails permission
- Personal expenses and other items not mentioned
Special Dates
The Sudoeste Festival, Zambujeira do Mar, 6th to 9th August 2025
- The ultimate Portuguese festival: electronic, indie, rock, hip-hop and more, plus unforgettable moments on the beach at Zambujeira and Herdade da Casa Branca.
- https://festivalsudoeste.com/
- Join the Algarve's top birdwatching event, with field trips, boat tours, workshops, hikes, photography, and dolphin-watching, all celebrating nature's beauty.
- https://www.birdwatchingsagres.com/en/
- You will be able to enjoy cultural activities, exhibitions and the tasting of countless sweet potato recipes.
- https://festival-batatadoce.cm-aljezur.pt/
Tour facts
- Discover the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, a haven of protected ecosystems and wild beauty.
- Admire the 17th-century Vila Nova de Milfontes Fort.
- Wild beaches and impressive coastal dunes.
- Visit Odeceixe Beach, a cliffside gem and one of Portugal's 7 Natural Wonders.
- Explore Aljezur's historic castle and vibrant market, filled with regional delicacies.
- Experience Praia da Amoreira's pristine landscapes, perfect for unwinding in nature.
- Witness an unforgettable sunset at Cabo de São Vicente, Europe’s south-westerly tip.
- Discover Sagres, where dramatic cliffs and seascapes meet centuries-old maritime history.
- Lagos, home to paradisiacal beaches and a rich, welcoming heritage.
- Savor the flavors of the region with fresh fish, seafood, and traditional dishes.
- Dive into stories and legends that bring the cultural fabric of the region to life.