Pedal through the Algarve at your own pace, where golden cliffs, whitewashed villages, and quiet coastal roads lead to discovery around every bend. From the cobbled streets of Lagos to the dramatic headlands of Cape St. Vincent, this self-guided bike tour blends scenic riding with inland climbs into the forested Serra de Monchique. Along the way, uncover thermal spring towns and laid-back surf communities. Each day offers flexibility to ride further or linger longer—with local tips for seafood restaurants, breezy cafés, and nearby trails. Each evening, return to your boutique hotel near the historic heart of Lagos for a relaxed and rewarding end to your perfect day.
Learn more about Self-Guided trips and if they're right for you »
Ride along the Algarve’s sun-drenched shoreline on quiet roads with sweeping ocean views and golden cliffs around every bend
Pedal to Europe’s southwestern tip at Cape St. Vincent and explore the laid-back surf village of Sagres, rich in maritime lore and natural beauty
Climb into the hills of the Serra de Monchique—a favorite among local riders—where panoramic views and mineral spring towns await
Savor the flavors of southern Portugal with fresh seafood and local specialties like bacalhau and piri piri chicken at scenic seaside cafés
Walk the seaside path from Lagos to Ponta da Piedade, passing famed coves like Praia do Camilo and Praia de Dona Ana along the way
Cabo de Sao Vicente in Sagres
The history of exploration in Sagres
Stand where explorers once set sail—Sagres was home to Prince Henry the Navigator and a launch point of Portugal’s Age of Discovery, a pivotal era of global exploration.
The Algarve feels like paradise to me—rolling hills dotted with wildflowers and rocky bluffs rising above the Atlantic. A self-guided tour lets you ride thoughtfully crafted routes at your own pace, discover hidden gems, and enjoy incredible food whenever and wherever you choose, which I love. It’s the perfect way to experience this unforgettable region.
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The rides were phenomenal. Great conditions, great views, great challenges, all very rewarding. Even with selecting the long option ride, I still found the balance of down time to be great. There's enough flexibility within to make the trip YOUR OWN trip. Excellent job.
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All was great. Traveling without the hassle of bikes was worth every penny. Having the routes pre-loaded made for ease when unsure where to go ride safely.
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A very well-conceived trip with fun routes, excellent food, and interesting side tours. We felt Trek was fully behind us whilst enjoying the freedom of self-guidance. And the Trek bikes inspired confidence!
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Great Ride
A stunning ride that carves along the rugged Atlantic coast through rolling, unspoiled terrain—passing whitewashed fishing villages and inviting surf coves before reaching the dramatic lighthouse at Cape St. Vincent, the southwesternmost point of Europe.
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Private
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Where to Arrive
Airport:
Faro International Airport (FAO)
Pick-up location:
The MN56 Hotel, Lagos, Portugal
Pick-up time:
11:00 AM
Where to Depart
Airport:
Faro International Airport (FAO)
Drop-off location:
The MN56 Hotel
Drop-off time:
11:00 AM
Additional Arrival Information
We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the start of your Portugal Self-Guided bike tour, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Faro (FAO). The airport is a one-hour shuttle ride to Lagos. Private shuttles and taxis are available for pick up at the airport (90-120€). They will be able to take you directly to your hotel. The hotel can also arrange a chauffeur driven car from the airport. Please contact The MN56 Hotel for more information.
You can find connections to this airport from many major European cities, including Lisbon, Portugal, which is the closest (a 45-minute flight) and a great place to visit before or after your trip. There is also a nonstop train from Lisbon Oriente Station to Faro five times per day. The trip takes about three hours and costs about 25€ one-way. Buy tickets in advance at www.cp.pt/passageiros/en/buy-tickets.
Your Trek Travel host will meet you at The MN56 Hotel (R. Marreiros Netto 56, 8600-617 Lagos, Portugal) at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. Depending on the number of guests booked for your departure date, it is possible we will ask you to shift your meeting time by approximately 30 minutes. Please have your riding gear readily accessible to avoid having to unpack your luggage. After a trip overview, you may change into your cycling gear where you will then be fitted to your Trek bike ensuring you will be comfortable for the week. Following a safety talk and a review of the details of the route, head out on a self-guided warm-up ride along the beautiful roads of the Algarve.
If you will be late for the meeting or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your Trek Travel host. If you cannot reach them, please call our hotel, The MN56 Hotel (+351 282 244 390) and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details.
Additional Departure Information
Your Trek Travel host will meet you at The MN56 Hotel at 11:00 AM to take your bike and equipment and say farewell before your departure. The trip hotel can also arrange a chauffeur driven car to the Faro. Please contact The MN56 Hotel for more information. Please allow adequate connection time for any ongoing travel to accommodate possible traffic delays.
Welcome to the Algarve—the Sunshine Coast of Portugal!
Overview
Welcome to the Algarve! Meet your Trek Travel host at MN56 Hotel at 11:00 AM for a brief orientation and personalized bike fitting on your Trek bike to get you comfortably set for the days ahead. Once you're ready, your self-guided ride begins—an introduction to the hills of the Algarve. Today’s route rolls through quiet country roads lined with Aleppo pines and cork oak, climbing gently toward a peaceful reservoir. On the return, pass through the low-key villag... Welcome to the Algarve! Meet your Trek Travel host at MN56 Hotel at 11:00 AM for a brief orientation and personalized bike fitting on your Trek bike to get you comfortably set for the days ahead. Once you're ready, your self-guided ride begins—an introduction to the hills of the Algarve. Today’s route rolls through quiet country roads lined with Aleppo pines and cork oak, climbing gently toward a peaceful reservoir. On the return, pass through the low-key village of Barão de São João, where a small artist community and welcoming cafés reflect the region’s laid-back hospitality. You'll end your ride back in Lagos, where the rooftop pool awaits and the walkable old town invites you to explore and dine at your own pace. Read More
Hotel
The MN56 Hotel
Highlight of the Day
Odeáxere Reservoir
Odeáxere Reservoir offers a peaceful inland detour with rolling terrain and a quiet glimpse into the hidden side of the Algarve.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Lagos to Odeaxere Resevior Loop - Approximately 27 mi | 43 km and 1759 ft | 536 m
Discover the Serra da Monchique, cycling's best-kept secret
Overview
After enjoying a relaxed breakfast, today’s ride leads you deeper into the eucalyptus-covered hills of the Serra de Monchique, where forested roads, cooler air, and sweeping views create an ideal setting for exploration. Climb gradually to Caldas de Monchique, a serene village known for its mineral-rich thermal waters, used for their healing properties since Roman times. For those looking to extend the ride, the avid option continues to Alto de Foia—the highest ... After enjoying a relaxed breakfast, today’s ride leads you deeper into the eucalyptus-covered hills of the Serra de Monchique, where forested roads, cooler air, and sweeping views create an ideal setting for exploration. Climb gradually to Caldas de Monchique, a serene village known for its mineral-rich thermal waters, used for their healing properties since Roman times. For those looking to extend the ride, the avid option continues to Alto de Foia—the highest point in the Algarve and a celebrated climb in the Volta ao Algarve (Tour of the Algarve). At the summit, take in panoramic views before spinning into the colorful mountain town of Monchique. Read More
Hotel
The MN56 Hotel
Meals included
Breakfast
Highlight of the Day
Serra De Monchique Range
Explore the mountains to the north—a pro cyclist’s early-season training ground and a hidden pocket of wellness-focused villages.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Lagos to Caldas de Monchique Loop - Approximately 49 mi | 78 km and 3393 ft | 1034 m
Ride Option2
SHORT OPTION:
Serra de Monchique Loop - Approximately 28 mi | 45 km and 1,420 ft | 432 m
Ride Option3
AVID OPTION:
Lagos to Monchique and Foia Climb - Approximately 62 mi | 100 km and 5289 ft | 1612 m
Ride to Cape St. Vincent and Sagres, the “End of the World”
Overview
You’ll take yourself west today, pedaling along the golden coast past sun-soaked villages and dramatic cliffs toward Cape St. Vincent and the relaxed village of Sagres. Once believed to be the edge of the known world, this windswept headland—the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe—played a key role in Portugal’s Age of Discovery. These days it's a laid-back coastal hub with plenty of restaurants and scenic spots to pause and refuel. After lunch, return... You’ll take yourself west today, pedaling along the golden coast past sun-soaked villages and dramatic cliffs toward Cape St. Vincent and the relaxed village of Sagres. Once believed to be the edge of the known world, this windswept headland—the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe—played a key role in Portugal’s Age of Discovery. These days it's a laid-back coastal hub with plenty of restaurants and scenic spots to pause and refuel. After lunch, return to Lagos for a lively evening in town or a peaceful walk along the coastal trail at Ponta da Piedade, where towering sea stacks and turquoise coves define the landscape. Read More
Hotel
The MN56 Hotel
Meals included
Breakfast
Highlight of the Day
Sagres
Windswept and wild, Sagres is where dramatic cliffs meet endless ocean—Portugal’s edge, rich in maritime history and raw beauty.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Lagos to Sagres and Return - Approximately 54 mi | 86 km and 3864 ft | 1177 m
Ride Option2
SHORT OPTION:
Lagos to Praia do Ingrina and Return - Approximately 35 mi | 56 km and 2891 ft | 881 m
Ride Option3
AVID OPTION:
Lagos to Sagres and Carrapateira Loop - Approximately 66 mi | 106 km and 4052 ft | 1235 m
Pedal east toward Portimão, an energetic riverside city with a storied maritime past
Overview
Today’s ride begins inland, rolling through quiet backroads and sun‑dappled villages as you leave Lagos behind. The route winds toward the wild beauty of Praia de Alvor—an expansive beach where white sand meets calm, clear water. With nearby dunes and a wooden boardwalk into the Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve, it’s a beautiful spot to pause off the bike. From there, continue into Portimão, an ocean and riverside town with deep trading roots and a lively coasta... Today’s ride begins inland, rolling through quiet backroads and sun‑dappled villages as you leave Lagos behind. The route winds toward the wild beauty of Praia de Alvor—an expansive beach where white sand meets calm, clear water. With nearby dunes and a wooden boardwalk into the Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve, it’s a beautiful spot to pause off the bike. From there, continue into Portimão, an ocean and riverside town with deep trading roots and a lively coastal feel. Its palm‑lined promenade invites a relaxed spin or seaside lunch. Return to Lagos with the golden Algarve light behind you and enjoy your final evening on the town. Read More
Hotel
The MN56 Hotel
Meals included
Breakfast
Highlight of the Day
Praia de Alvor
Pause at the expansive Praia de Alvor, where white sand meets calm, shallow water, before continuing into Portimão—a vibrant port city.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Lagos to Portimão Loop - Approximately 42 mi | 67 km and 2466 ft | 745 m
Ride Option2
SHORT OPTION:
Lagos Loop - Approximately 18 mi | 28 km and 1004 ft | 306 m
Ride Option3
AVID OPTION:
Lagos to Portimão Loop - Approximately 49 mi | 78 km and 2881 ft | 878 m
Enjoy a peaceful seaside spin to Burgau for you final day in the Algarve
Overview
Relish your final ride with a coastal spin from Lagos to the relaxed village of Burgau. The route hugs the cliffs and winds through golden landscapes, with sweeping ocean views and salty breezes at every turn. Pause to absorb the rhythm of the Algarve one last time. In Burgau, enjoy a celebratory coffee by the sea before returning—legs light, heart full. It’s a perfect send-off to a remarkable ride. Your Trek Travel host will meet you at 11:00 AM at the hotel to... Relish your final ride with a coastal spin from Lagos to the relaxed village of Burgau. The route hugs the cliffs and winds through golden landscapes, with sweeping ocean views and salty breezes at every turn. Pause to absorb the rhythm of the Algarve one last time. In Burgau, enjoy a celebratory coffee by the sea before returning—legs light, heart full. It’s a perfect send-off to a remarkable ride. Your Trek Travel host will meet you at 11:00 AM at the hotel to collect your bike and gear before you continue your journey through Portugal. Read More
Hotel
The MN56 Hotel
Meals included
Breakfast
Highlight of the Day
Burgau
A quaint fishing village where whitewashed cottages meet turquoise waves—Burgau blends old-world charm with laid-back coastal beauty.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Lagos to Burgau - Approximately 14 mi | 22 km and 988 ft | 301 m
There are a variety of non-riding options on this trip for riders who want to take the afternoon off or travel companions who want to spend little or no time in the saddle. Non-riders are welcome on a Self-Guided trip if they are staying in the same room with a riding guest. Non-riders will be offered a $500 discount from the trip price. Please contact a trip consultant for details and to book a non-riding companion. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip—please contact one of our Trip Consultants for more information. Except as specified in the itinerary, expenses and transportation to these activities are not included in the trip price. Some non-riding options on this trip are:
On a self-guided tour you need to feel comfortable changing a flat, as this is a common event when cycling. All self-guided trips include Ride With GPS, an app which is like having a personal guide in your pocket! You'll get turn-by-turn directions and navigation along with local recommendations. In the rare case of a bicycle breakdown or mechanical issue beyond a simple repair, your Ride With GPS app will have your full itinerary with detailed contact information with emergency phone numbers to call for assistance. Learn more about our Self-Guided Bike Tours.
Located in the heart of Lagos’ historic center, The MN56 is a thoughtfully reimagined 18th-century manor turned 22-room boutique hotel. Inside, modern design meets retro flair in warm, welcoming spaces that reflect the building’s unique heritage. With a rooftop pool, onsite dining, and personalized service, it’s more than just a place to stay.
Road
With Shimano’s Ultegra Di2 12-speed wireless electronic drivetrain, the Domane SL 7 Gen 3 delivers lightning-fast, precise shifts in any conditions. A carbon frame with front and rear IsoSpeed smooths rough roads, while carbon wheels keep the ride quick and efficient. Add in powerful disc brakes, and you’ve got a performance road bike that’s fast, stable, and always fun to ride.
E-Bike
Fun from the first pedal stroke, the Trek Verve+ 3 helps you go farther with ease. Its low-step frame and upright riding position keep you comfortable, while the Bosch motor provides a natural boost up to 15 or 20 mph (region specific). Shimano hydraulic disc brakes deliver smooth, controlled stopping, so every hill and every mile feels relaxed and enjoyable.
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Your Day. You Decide.
Our self-guided vacations are designed to fit all types of travel styles. Whether you like to spend your time relaxing or on a non-stop adventure, you get to decide what your day looks like. Choose your mileage, itinerary, and experience level and leave the rest to us!
Your Trip Need to Knows:
Faro, Portugal
Faro, the gateway to the Algarve, blends coastal beauty with a rich cultural legacy shaped by Romans, Moors, and medieval Portugal. Wander the cobbled passages of its fortified Old Town, pause in shady courtyards near the cathedral, and admire the region’s distinctive white façades and tiled accents. Along the marina, enjoy fresh seafood and a relaxed café scene before venturing into the Ria Formosa, a protected labyrinth of lagoons and barrier islands rich with wildlife. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre-trip hotel:
Where to Stay
Hotel Occidental Faro
Hotel Occidental Faro sits near the marina, offering easy access to Faro’s historic center and waterfront promenades. Contemporary rooms, a rooftop pool, and a relaxed lounge make it an inviting base for exploring the Algarve’s capital. Please note: This is your Day 1 meeting location. www.occidentalfaro.com
3HB Faro
3HB Faro brings modern style to the city center with bright, refined rooms and attentive amenities. Guests enjoy a rooftop pool, two on-site restaurants, and quick access to the Old Town, marina, and nearby shopping streets. www.3hb.com
Roots Hotel
Roots Hotel offers sleek apartment-style accommodations close to Faro’s cultural district. Spacious layouts, kitchenettes, and minimalist design provide comfort and flexibility just steps from cafés, galleries, and the marina. www.rootshotel.pt
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, the city of seven hills, is Portugal’s vibrant capital, rich with café culture, music, art, and centuries of history. Wander the cobbled streets of Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Chiado to see whitewashed walls, ochre roofs, and the city’s signature azulejo tiles. Visit the iconic Belém Tower, listen for the sounds of Fado drifting from neighborhood taverns, and enjoy the city’s lively dining scene before treating yourself to warm pastéis de nata, Portugal’s beloved custard tarts. We recommend the following accommodations for your post-trip hotel:
Where to Stay
Memmo Alfama
Perched on a magnificent hillside in the Alfama district, this former shoe polish factory turned boutique hotel offers spectacular views of the city. It's the perfect base for local explorations and evening cocktails with a view. www.memmohotels.com/
Hotel Britania Art Deco
Hotel Britania Art Deco blends historical charm with modern comfort in the heart of Lisbon. Opened in 1944 and meticulously restored, it preserves its original Art Deco features. Spacious rooms, a library, and a stylish bar offer a tranquil retreat just off Avenida da Liberdade, steps from the city’s main attractions. www.lisbonheritagehotels.com
Hotel White Lisboa
Hotel White Lisboa is a modern boutique hotel located in Lisbon's Avenidas Novas district, near the metro. It features minimalist design, comfortable rooms, and a rooftop pool with panoramic city views, offering a convenient base for exploring the city. www.hotelwhitelisboa.com/
March and April are typically bring mild spring weather in Lagos. Pleasant, sunny days and cooler evenings are common. Temperatures range from mid 50s to 60sºF (13-18ºC) with cooler evenings. The mornings often start cooler. Rain is always a possibility, so be prepared with the proper rain gear in order to best enjoy your cycling vacation. September can get hot, with sunny days and temperatures reaching the 90s (32-35ºC). October continues warm weather averaging in the 80s (27-30ºC) and comfortable evening temps with lower chances of rain. View our Packing List
To reserve your space on a trip, you can either call us at 866-464-8735 to speak with an expert Trip Consultant or book online any time by clicking the “BOOK THIS TRIP” icon near the upper right of each destination’s overview page.* Once you have submitted your reservation online, a Trip Consultant will contact you within one business day to answer any questions you may have and to confirm space, bike, and room availability on your desired trip. Your booking will be finalized once your no-risk deposit is paid. If you make a reservation more than 90 days prior to the trip, a $750 no risk deposit is due at the time of booking.** If you reserve your trip less than 90 days prior to the departure, the full balance is due at the time of booking. Once your booking is complete you will receive an email confirmation with important information pertaining to your trip.
*Please note that select trips cannot be booked online at this time. For those trips, please call a trip consultant at 866-464-8735.
**Deposit amounts vary for all Race, Cross Country, Special Edition, Ride Camp, and Self-Guided tours. Please confirm deposit amounts for all trips with your Trip Consultant at time of booking.
When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation letter is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start, you’ll receive an email containing your trip start meeting location reminder and any last-minute information that you’ll need to know before you go. Once you arrive at your destination, your Trek Travel host will brief you on the day-to-day plan for the trip and give you an overview on the daily route information and detailed maps within the Ride with GPS app. The turn-by-turn directions allow you to ride with complete confidence and independence.
We understand things happen in life and sometimes you have to cancel or change your tour.
Read our Cancellation Policy
Our Trip Consultants are available to assist and can answer your questions. Please call us at 866-464-8735.
Trek Travel recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help safeguard you and your travel investment against the unexpected. We offer a travel protection plan through Arch RoamRight that provides coverage for unforeseen events that could affect your ability to travel with us. Learn more about our Travel Protection
We've collaborated with a specialized travel agency committed to delivering tailored vacation planning, ensuring your entire Trek Travel journey is nothing short of unforgettable. Learn more about our Travel Services
Your Self-Guided trip price is per person based on two guests sharing a room. If you are a solo traveler or if you want to stay in your own private room while traveling with other people, you will have a Single Supplement Fee added to your trip price at the time of booking.
Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to the most common questions that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip. See Self-Guided FAQs
Want to learn more about our trips? Watch our recorded Guide-Led Virtual Events—just visit our Trek Travel Youtube Channel and search for your trip.
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Our trips are guaranteed to run once we have one confirmed booking on the trip. Click here to view our full guarantee policy.
Trek Travel reserves the right to cancel trips with zero guests, therefore you must book with Trek Travel before making travel arrangements for the trip. We are not responsible for travel arrangements made prior to confirming your Trek Travel Trip. Select trips are not guaranteed.
This trip is currently sold out, but you may be added to the waitlist in the case of availability.
If a date is marked with Limited Availability, there are few spots left to book. We will secure additional rooms from our hotels before confirming your reservation.
Looking to travel with a small group? Ask our trip consultants about private trips and learn more.
If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.
Don’t see exactly what you are looking for or looking for a custom date?
Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735
Trek Travel offers three hotel levels to match your style. Luxury hotels provide elegant, thoughtful touches with exceptional hospitality. Explorer hotels blend modern amenities with local charm in unique settings. Comfort hotels are casual and conveniently located near Trek Travel activities.
Road: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Road: 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).
Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).
Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).
Road: 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).
Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).
Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).
Road: 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).
Gravel: 4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).
Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).
Explore beautiful destinations with a curated blend of guided activities, local cuisine, handpicked accommodations, and itineraries to suit every traveler, from laid-back adventures to luxurious escapes.
Venture off the beaten path to unforgettable places, with fully-supported routes that combine gravel and paved roads in classic Trek Travel style.
Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.
See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.
Step into adventure with carefully designed routes, unparalleled hospitality, and deep-routed local connections.
Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.
Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.
Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself
