Bike Hire
Any of our guests can request bike hire for their holiday. We have a number of great local bike shops which we can organise bike hire through, just let us know your height, leg length and your usual bike size and we will get the closest match to what you are used to!
Don't forget to bring pedals and helmet unless you have already requested these too.
Ride Lengths and Speed
We cater for all levels of cyclist, and the weekly schedule will vary according to the guests ability and desires. We will often split up into slower and faster groups so that all guests are cycling at their own pace, regrouping at cafes where possible to keep it sociable.
Ride lengths will usually be between 90 - 160km depending on the level of rider, and the rides tend to be between 24 - 30km/hr depending on how hilly the route is.
All routes will involve at least one cafe stop, usually more! The Portuguese pastries and coffee are delicious and very cheap.
Terrain
Although you won't find snowy 20km alpine switch backs here, the Algarve contains deceptively challenging terrain. Central Algarve is packed with smooth, empty roads, winding through olive groves, orange plantations and small, picturesque villages. Most of the rides we do, take guests well away from the coast, up into the hills. The climbing there is fantastic, with spectacular views back towards the coast and further inland. One benefit of the climbs never being too long is that it rarely gets cold. For those who want to really push themselves, there are a few routes which take in climbs which reach almost 20% for a few km. One favourite of ours is "Malhao", a gruelling climb used every year in the Volta ao Algarve, a professional cycling race which brings UCI World Tour Teams to the Algarve in February.
Alternatively, there are also routes which are flatter, for recovery rides or guests who want a more relaxed holiday.
The best aspect of cycling in the Algarve is the smooth empty roads. In comparison to many other locations in Europe, or even Mallorca, you will find it a very peaceful and safe place to cycle.
Can I Extend my Stay?
It depends on vacancy at the hotel. Usually if you ask us far enough in advance, we can extend your booking for you. Just be aware that you might not have so much company as on one of our standard weeks, and that there is no guarantee that you have a guide available during that time.
Price will depend on time of year, and whether you need guides or not during that time.
Just get in touch with us and we will always try our hardest to cater for what you would like!