Setting off from Quarteira, the coastal city with the longest seafront avenue in the Algarve, this physically demanding route lets you plunge into the region's exquisite natural beauty.
The first 50 km make it quite clear that this is a tough ride, with uphill stretches to Barranco do Velho and the top of the Serra do Caldeirão uplands. Succumbing to the feeling that you can truly touch the sky, you reach the highest point in the eastern Algarve, at 584 metres. From here, the view over the region's hinterland will recharge your batteries for the charming ride back downhill through lush green landscapes such as Quinta do Freixo.
In Benafim, you start on a flatter stretch preceding Alte, Portela de Messines and Paderne, but then there are more ups and downs until you reach Boliqueime. Be very careful with the traffic on the ride back to Quarteira.
Distance – 125 km
Accumulated Climb – 1945 m