Set off from alongside the sands that shape Albufeira's lovely beaches for the first stage of a route that demands agility and time to appreciate the admirable spectacle of nature.
The aim is to reach Picota by way of Paderne, Benafim and Salir, surmounting the difficulties of a road which is winding but has a good surface. Successive short but quite steep sections define this route through the uplands of the Serra do Caldeirão, where you will want to visit the hamlets of Califórnia, Vermelhos and Corte de Pinheiro.
Heading northwards, you reach the top of Malhão and enthusiastically take on the hills of the 20 km that separate you from São Bartolomeu de Messines. You will come across the village of Algoz on the final stage of the return journey, where you will need to watch out for the traffic.
Distance – 177 km
Accumulated Climb – 3000 m