7-day Algarve and Alentejo MTB Cycling Holiday
By S-Cape Travel
• Follow the Portuguese coast from Alentejo to the Algarve
• Cycle along dirt roads or paved routes with little to no traffic
• Discover coastal landscapes, wild beaches, rolling dunes, and dramatic cliffs
• Experience the tranquility of inland Portugal: pasturelands and authentic villages
• Enjoy charming accommodations, all with a swimming pool
Discover the wild beauty of Portugal’s southwest coast on a unique cycling adventure along the famous Fishermen’s Trail. This self-guided program takes you along the Rota Vicentina, from the cliffs of Alentejo to the golden landscapes of the Algarve, following dirt tracks, gravel trails, and paved roads with little to no traffic.
As you cycle south, you’ll pass through a stunning coastal mosaic of unspoiled beaches, rolling dunes, and dramatic cliffs shaped by wind and sea. The route also takes you inland, where time seems to slow down—through peaceful fields, cork oak groves, and authentic villages that reveal the essence of Portuguese rural life.
At the end of each stage, you’ll be welcomed into carefully selected accommodations full of charm and comfort. All three feature a swimming pool—perfect for a refreshing dip after a day of cycling. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a relaxed explorer, this journey blends natural beauty, cultural immersion, and an inspiring sense of peace.
Feel the rhythm of the Atlantic, breathe in the aromas of rosemary and pine, and let the Fishermen’s Trail guide you through one of Portugal’s most captivating regions—at your own pace, on two wheels.
Aljezur
Arrifana
Carrapateira
Lagos
Odeceixe
Pedralva
Sagres
Salema
Vila do Bispo
English
German
Spanish
5-7 days
Accommodation
Transport
light
149 to 171 km
Description
Day 1: Arrival in Odeceixe
Arrival in the village of Odeceixe, located by the Seixe River on the border with the Alentejo region. Overnight stay in one of Odeceixe’s traditional houses, close to the windmill and the village’s historic center.
Day 2: Circular route from Odeceixe via Carvalhal and Zambujeira (40 km)
On this first day of cycling, you’ll have time to explore the region on a beautiful route that passes the beaches of Odeceixe, Carvalhal, and Zambujeira, crossing a plateau dotted with greenhouses and farmland. Zambujeira is a welcoming fishing village, ideal for a lunch break.
Day 3: Odeceixe to Aljezur (23–31 km)
Heading inland, you’ll follow dirt tracks along the Seixe River, passing farms and an open cork oak woodland. After 5.5 km, the route climbs a steep hillside of 125 m, then continues along quiet paved roads back toward the coast. Along the way, you’ll pass through the villages of Maria Vinagre and Rogil, with small shops and bakeries. You then descend along a sandy trail to Amoreira Beach—an excellent spot for a break—before the final 7 km to Aljezur. Overnight stay in a modern aparthotel with a swimming pool in the newer part of Aljezur. The best restaurants are a 10-minute walk away, in the historic center near the medieval castle.
Day 4: Aljezur to Pedralva (29–41 km)
The route begins with a climb up to the ruins of Aljezur Castle. You can choose an optional 17 km detour via the beaches of Monte Clérigo and Arrifana, or continue directly south through shaded pine forests to Carrapateira.
Both routes rejoin at a viewpoint overlooking the Costa Vicentina. After descending through the dunes of Bordeira, you reach the village of Carrapateira, with several shops and restaurants. From there, you cycle another 10 km through a quiet rural valley, from Vilarinho to Pedralva, where you’ll stay for three nights in one of 20 carefully restored houses.
Day 5: Circular Route from Pedralva (21-23 km)
A short route that begins with a descent to Carrapateira, a friendly village where tourists, surfers, and fishermen meet in the central square. Here you will also find the interesting Museum of the Sea and Land. Next, follow the stunning coastline of Carrapateira, with the possibility of visiting two beaches. In summer, you can try a surf lesson at Praia do Amado. On the return, follow sandy paths between the hills. There is a steep climb, but you can do it on foot, pushing your bike if necessary. There is an alternative route on a paved road, almost as steep and one kilometer longer.
Day 6: From Pedralva to Sagres, via Vila do Bispo (36 km)
Heading towards Cabo de São Vicente, the southwesternmost point of Portugal. The route begins with a climb along gravel tracks through pine and eucalyptus forests, passing a modern wind farm to the village of Vila do Bispo. Then, cross a plain to the cape, where you can take a break at the café next to the lighthouse. For the last 6 km, cycle alongside impressive cliffs to Sagres. There will be time to visit some of the beaches along the way before meeting the rental company representative at 4 pm, who will transport the bicycle back to Pedralva.
Day 7: End of program
The program ends after breakfast. A few extra days in Pedralva are recommended to enjoy the beach and the wild coastline.