"To those who judge my path, I lend my shoes."

Rota Vicentina by bike: 5 stages

Information about the trip: Rota Vicentina by bike: 5 stages

The Rota Vicentina by bike is an easy-to-moderate itinerary and an unforgettable cycling journey through the stunning coastal landscapes of the Alentejo and Algarve regions. This 5-stage route covers approximately 176 km (109 miles), combining quiet paved roads with well-maintained dirt tracks that lead cyclists all the way to the iconic Cape St. Vincent, the southwestern tip of Europe.

Along the route, riders experience a remarkable variety of unspoiled beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming coastal villages. Small towns with traditional fishing harbors offer authentic glimpses into local life, where the rhythm of the sea still defines daily routines. The journey is also a celebration of Portuguese gastronomy, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy a Mediterranean diet rich in fresh fish, seafood, and regional specialties.

More than a route, the Rota Vicentina is a premium cycling experience through Portugal’s most authentic and unspoiled landscapes. Don’t miss it!

Travel itinerary (Summary)

  • DAY 1: Arrival to Vila Nova de  Milfontes
  • DAY 2: Stage 1, Vila Nova de Milfontes , Zambujeira 36 km 3/5
  • DAY 3: Stage 2, Zambujeira, Aljezur 48 km 3/5
  • DAY 4: Stage 3, Aljezur, Carrapateira 51 km 4/5
  • DAY 5: Stage 4, Carrapateira , Sagres 40 km 4/5
  • DAY 6: Stage 5, Sagres, Lagos 42 km 4/5
  • DAY 7: Return.

Travel itinerary (Detailed)

  • 1

    Arrival to Vila Nova de Milfontes.


    After the Check-in a guide will provide the briefing to clarify everything related to the tour, and deliver the bikes and GPS tuition.
    Overnight: Vila Nova de Milfontes

  • 2

    Stage 1, from Vila Nova de Milfontes to Zambujeira.


    Distance : 36 km Difficulty : 3/5

    Breakfast and start of the stage. The route today will take you along the most beautiful coastal villages, but before we recommend a short warm-up heading north to Milfontes fishing harbor, and after you can start the tour towards Zambujeira, crossing the bridge over the River Mira and passing the villages of Longueira and Almograve on the way, using dirt tracks through the cork oaks and vineyards. The detour to Almograve beach worth’s the effort and after reaching the village of Cavaleiro you will reach the most famous lighthouse in this Region, the Cabo Sardão, where the most beautiful track along the cliffs allows enjoying the maritime wind and views, just before reaching Zambujeira do Mar and it´s beautiful beach reachable by foot. Don´t forget to enjoy the local seafood in this small village.
    Overnight: Zambujeira do Mar

  • 3

    Stage 2, from Zambujeira to Aljezur


    Distance : 48 km Difficulty : 3/5

    Breakfast and start of the stage. Today the track will follow towards the Moorish village of Alzejur, passing in some beautiful villages and beaches of Alentejo and Algarve regions. Passing through Carvalhal beach and allowing a short detour for a walk to Amália beach (Fado´s Portuguese Diva).
    After you will have some time to make another detour to Azenha do Mar fishing harbor were a seafood restaurant with ocean views, a good place to stop for a full meal or just a coffee. Crossing the bridge before Odeceixe village you are officially leaving the Alentejo region and getting into the most famous region of Portugal, the Algarve. Odeceixe beach will offer ocean views of one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal and the village will offer you a great perspective over the Ceixe Valley near the windmill before leaving for Rogil. Rogil is the sweet potato Area, so a stop is recommended to try the sweets, the soup, or the meal of it. Aljezur Village on the horizon will show at the top the Moorish castle, one of the ones represented on the Portuguese flag. Time to rest.
    Overnight: Aljezur

  • 4

    Stage 3, from Aljezur to Carrapateira


    Distance : 51 km Difficulty : 4/5

    Breakfast and start of the stage. Leaving the hotel in Aljezur, heading up to the Moorish Castle to enjoy the stunning views of Amoreira Valley and pedaling towards the coast. Today you will pedal along 2 beaches that locals use to develop their surf skills. Great views from Amoreira Beach and Monte Clérigo, passing on an old ruin of a “Ribat”, is evidence of Moorish presence and spiritual significance of this place in the past. Arrifana and a tiny fishing harbor with a great restaurant with an ocean view and the most popular beach at the bottom of a coastline with a dramatic landscape made of rock cliffs. Because the region is not only Ocean and sea, but the tour will also lead you inland to explore the countryside of these lands, until the Village of Carrapateira, where a final loop near the Ocean will clean your breeding system just before reaching the hotel.
    Overnight: Carrapateira

  • 5

    Stage 4, from Carrapateira to Sagres.


    Distance : 40 km Difficulty : 4/5

    Breakfast and start of the stage. The last day starts in Carrapateira and heads towards the South stopping in one of the highlights of this trip, Saint Vincent’s Cape. The Southern corner of Europe and the last place before America. Cycling there creates a mystical feeling inside us, that is not possible to explain by words. The significance of the Portuguese gold Era of discoveries found the inspiration at this place. This is the place to end your crossing by bike in the SW area of Portugal.
    Overnight in Sagres

  • 6

    Stage 5, from Sagres to Lagos


    Distance : 42 km Difficulty : 4/5

    Breakfast and start of the stage. The last day starts in and follows towards the city of Lagos, covering one of the most desirable areas for holidays, crossing several beaches and small villages on the way, until the legendary city of Lagos. The place where Infante Dom Henrique has planned the discovery journey. This place is a perfect place to finish your active challenge and maybe to add some extra nights to explore the surroundings or just to go to the beach where the water is warmer.
    Overnight in Lagos

  • 7

    Return.


    After breakfast, return.

Included

  • 6 nights on a Bed & breakfast basis
  • bike delivery and pickup.
  • GPS device pre-loaded with tracks in English.
  • Touring bike renting with panniers, lock, pump, and tools included
  • One Map 1: 55 000 and one pack of notes in English per room.
  • Luggage transfer between hotels.
  • Helmet rental available on request

    • Not included

    • Flights or trains.
    • Lunches.
    • Dinners.
    • Transfers not mentioned on the voucher.
    • Single room supplement: € 545
    • SOLO traveller supplement: € 835
    • E-bike supplement: € 215
    • Tourist taxes.

      • Accommodations

      All accommodations have rooms with en-suite facilities.

      Conditions

      Price per person based on double room. Minimum 2 people. SOLO traveller supplement available on request.

       
      Daily departures from February 2 to June 23 and from September 22 to November 30
       
      No departures:
      From June 24 to September 21
      From December 1 to February 1

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