Monte Gordo: Independent Cycle Holidays in the East Algarve & South of Spain

Self-Guided Cycling

From 680.00 pp

Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Availability: January - December

Grade: Moderate (4/8)

This cycling holiday is like a banquet for your senses as you experience the breathtaking landscapes of East Algarve.

Inland, it is possible to meander for miles through enchanted valleys, hear birdsong, see few people and find peace.

The coastal strip is where the ocean is tamed by the sand islands, salt pans, and azure lagoons of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, where flamingos and water birds abound.

Highlights

  • Coastal East Algarve: Ria Formosa Natural Park, Nature Reserve of Castro Marim, Cacela-Velha
  • Quiet inland paths
  • Spain: Marismas of Isla Cristina and Ayamonte
  • Charming historical towns of Tavira and Vila Real Sto António
  • Typical fishermen villages and ways of life
  • A fantastic itinerary designed by local resident tour leaders
  • The amazing Portuguese gastronomy, with the highlight for the fish and seafood, and the wines
  • Includes all the information and services you need, from detailed route notes to bike hire, and a 24h hotline

Tour Description

This cycling holiday is like a banquet for your senses as you experience the breathtaking landscapes of East Algarve.

Inland, it is possible to meander for miles through enchanted valleys, hear birdsong, see few people and find peace.

The coastal strip is where the ocean is tamed by the sand islands, salt pans, and azure lagoons of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, where flamingos and water birds abound.

Cycle path - Monte Gordo

Cycle path – Monte Gordo

A week of fun and adventure, with both surfaced cycle tracks and quiet lanes. There is a mixture of flat and gently undulating terrain suitable for everyone.

You’ll be based in Monte Gordo, a popular resort town situated on one of the finest beaches of Portugal, stretching for miles in either direction with fine sands and clear crystal waters. The town has excellent tourist facilities, including great bars and cafés and many varied restaurants.

Our program includes 6 wonderful rides through the Ria Formosa Natural Park, the Nature Reserve of Castro Marim, through the Marismas of Isla Cristina, and on the lush interior of the Algarve.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival at Faro Airport

Transfer to Monte Gordo.

Montegordo fishing boats

Monte Gordo fishing boats and fishing paraphernalia are to be found only on one section of the beach.

Day 2 – Algarve: Santa Rita

Today we cycle through intricate, quiet lanes meandering through the verdant countryside.
Our route will take us to the typical Algarve village of Santa Rita where you can take a break in the local café.
Then continue on picturesque and quiet tarmac lanes to finish in the lovely town of Tavira. Our route will take you directly to the train station, however, the town is well worth exploring.
In Tavira, you take the local train back to Monte Gordo along with your bicycle.

Monte Gordo pine woods

Monte Gordo pine woods. For centuries fishermen´s shacks were the only sign of human life on the broad sands surrounded by pine woods.

Day 3 – Spain: Ayamonte and Isla Cristina

Cycle on designated cycleway to Vila Real S. Antonio, where the river Guadiana meets the sea. You’ll take your bikes across on the ferry to the Spanish town of Ayamonte.
You then cycle east through the salt pans of Ayamonte which for centuries have been producing salt & shellfish and now are a haven for birdlife.
You will tour the bustling small town of Isla Cristina before returning to Ayamonte and ferrying back to Portugal.
Much of the way is on designated cycleways.

East Algarve cycling

East Algarve cycling

Day 4 – Algarve: Tavira Ecovia

A charming route, running along the coast and the Ria Formosa on the coastal ecovia. En route, you will visit the quintessential coastal village of Cacela Velha with its Moorish-influenced architecture. You’ll pass through Cabanas where cafés line the attractive waterfront.
Finish again in Tavira, one of the most unspoiled towns in the Algarve. There will be time to stroll around & enjoy this lovely town.
Your route takes you to the train station where you can train back to Monte Gordo with your bicycle.

Ecovia in the East Algarve

Ecovia in the East Algarve

Day 5 – Spain: Ayamonte & Isla Canela

Cycle through pine woodland on quiet, well surfaced, tracks to Vila Real S. António, where the river Guadiana meets the sea.
You’ll take your bike across on the ferry to the Spanish town of Ayamonte.
You then cycle south to the resort area of Isla Canela and the Isla Del Moral, a more local fishing village.
You will then return to Ayamonte and ferry back to Portugal.

Cycling Tour East Algarve

Cycling Tour East Algarve

Day 6 – Algarve: Castro Marim Nature Reserve

A local circuit centred on the Local Nature Reserve, visiting the headquarters and information on the banks of the river Guadiana and the salt works of Castro Marim around which an abundance of birds have made their home.
Also, visit the attractive and historic small town of Castro Marim dominated by its ancient castle and more recent fortifications guarding the river & giving great views over the surrounding countryside.

Marshes in Andalucia

Marshes in Andalucia, extensive and ecologically important areas of marshes and wetlands, which attract thousands of birds

Day 7 – Algarve: Ribeira Seca

A circuit into the verdant inland hills passing through tiny, sleepy hamlets, all on good and quiet tarmac lanes. A glimpse into the rural countryside of the Algarve is rarely seen by most visitors.

Castro Marim saltpans

Castro Marim saltpans, the trails lead us to the salt pans that occupy around one-third of the protected area.

Day 8 – Departure

 

Info

The Pr1me Energize Hotel, Monte Gordo

The Pr1me Energize Hotel, Monte Gordo

Hotel

Hotel Prime Energize (4****) or similar

Located 400 m from the beach in Monte Gordo, the Prime Energize offers guests high comfort accommodation. The rooftop swimming pool boasts stunning views and is served by a bar.
Each room is equipped with AC, free WiFi, flat-screen cable TV, minibar, safety deposit box, and telephone. Bathrooms include free Rituals™ toiletries.
The restaurant serves a variety of healthy dishes featuring local and fresh produce. In addition, the lobby bar includes an outdoor terrace. The main street of Monte Gordo is a 2-min. walk and features bars, a casino, and restaurants.
The Prime Energize offers a 24-hour reception with a concierge.

What's included

Accommodation

  • 7 nights in a twin standard room for two pax (4 stars hotel)
  • Single supplement available with a surcharge
  • Extra nights available on request

Meals

  • 7 buffet breakfasts at the Hotel
  • Half-board available with surcharge (buffet dinner at the hotel without drinks)

Transport

  • Meet & Greet Airport Transfer from airport/train station/bus station to the hotel on the first day
  • Transfers from the hotel to airport/train station/bus station on last day

Equipment

  • 21-speed hybrid bicycle with flat pedals, frame in polished aluminium. Size S / M / L
  • Components: Shimano – Acera X
  • Tires: 26
  • Helmet

Your information pack includes

  • Accommodation vouchers
  • Transfers vouchers, according to the description
  • Emergency contact numbers
  • General information about your holiday and destination
  • List of the hotel(s)
  • Directions for arriving at your first hotel, if applicable
  • Detailed maps and route notes in your own mobile with App Routes & Maps (if you prefer a paper version, for environmental reasons we charge a 50€ fee for each copy)
  • Foreign Office Travel Advice
  • Assistance 24/7

Exclusions

Any services not listed as included

  • Flights to and from Portugal
  • Meals, tips/gratuities, baggage, or personal insurance (except as outlined)
  • Admission fees to castles & attractions or events (except as outlined)
  • Personal expenses
  • Supplements

Insurance

You must be adequately insured to join our Guided cycling holiday and Self-Guided cycling holiday. We do not insist that you insure with us but we require that you are adequately insured for the nature of your holiday.

BeCool Travel has partnered with WorldNomads.com to keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com Travel Insurance is designed for independent and adventurous travellers, with coverage for overseas medical expenses, cancellation, baggage, and other expenses.

Please consult our Travel Insurance page, where you’ll be able to get more detailed info about insurance requirements and an immediate quote for your trip.