Portugal's Algarve & Spain's Andalusia Luxury Bike (Culture, Cuisine & Coastal Bliss from Seville to Lisbon) 6D5N, Fully Guided

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 18 km (11 miles), Elevation gain: 396 m (1,300 ft)
Level 2, Approx. 27 km (17 miles), Elevation gain: 671 m (2,200 ft)

¡Bienvenidos a Andalucía! We meet in the vibrant city of Seville, then shuttle off to the romantic village of Zulfre, a charming pueblo blanco located at the base of the Sierra de Aracena mountain range. This westernmost part of Spain’s Sierra Morena range is known for its timeless beauty reflected in its stunning white-washed buildings that create a striking contrast against the green hills. To kick off our journey properly, we break for a traditional lunch at a cosy farmhouse, sampling an array of local dishes to slowly ease into the vibe of the region, and perhaps, fuel for the day ahead.

Following lunch, your bike will be fitted, and a brief talk on biking techniques will get you primed and ready for the journey ahead. We then set off, gliding through the peaceful hills of the Sierra de Aracena and the stunning Picos de Aroche Natural Park. Our route winds along the Aracena reservoir, with lush forests and the iconic dehesa painting the landscape. These dehesas are expansive pastures speckled with majestic holm and cork oaks, which have been used for centuries for grazing livestock, especially the famous Iberian pigs that roam beneath the trees, feeding on acorns.

Onward we pedal, through serene dehesa landscapes and small farmhouses until we reach Barceló Aracena, a chic, avant-garde hotel offering sleek rooms with stunning views of the whitewashed town below. Settle into your elegant surroundings or take a refreshing siesta as you adjust to the laid-back Andalusian pace of life.

This evening, we shuttle to a historic Andalusian cortijo, once home to Aracena’s nobility. Here at this residence, we toast to the many adventures that await with a cocktail reception. Unwind byt he pool or simply soak in the scenery at the picturesque terrace. Moments later, an enchanting Flamenco performance follows suit. This vibrant display of Andalucía’s rich musical heritage is influenced by the Moorish, Phoenician, and the local cultures that have shaped the region. Enjoy the lively display while bidding time in anticipation of a flavorful feast of Andalusian cuisine. The dishes are nothing short of a culinary masterpiece, blending Spanish and Moorish traditions into unforgettable bites—-an extraordinary start to your adventure.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 27 km (17 miles), Elevation gain: 427 m (1,400 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 45 km (28 miles), Elevation gain: 792 m (2,600 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 60 km (37 miles), Elevation gain: 1,036 m (3,400 ft)

Start your day with breakfast before diving into Andalucía’s sunlit hillsides and ancient oak forests. As we journey, the pueblos blancos—white-walled villages once fortified against invaders—dot the mountainsides like whispered tales of the Moorish empire. These charming stops invite you in for a morning coffee, each village flaunting its own treasures: a centuries-old bullring, intricate mosaics underfoot, or cascades of bougainvillaea spilling in vibrant splendour.

Arriving in the picturesque pueblo blanco of Almonaster la Real, we settle in for a lunch as timeless as the village itself. The star? Jamón Ibérico, crafted from acorn-fed Black Iberian pigs you may have spotted under oak trees earlier—its tender, nutty flavour truly embodies the essence of Andalucía.

Afterward, hop back on your bike to weave through rolling hills and cork-oak forests, or opt for a relaxed ride back to the hotel where the pool and town’s hidden gems await.

As evening falls, drift through Aracena's winding streets with a local guide, unravelling the town’s ancient mysteries and timeless allure. Then, let the night unfold at your own pace with a tapas-style feast—sip on luscious sangria and savour delicacies kissed by Andalucía’s sun.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 37 km (23 miles), Elevation gain: 549 m (1,800 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 68 km (42 miles), Elevation gain: 1,006 m (3,300 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 84 km (52 miles), Elevation gain: 1,372 m (4,500 ft)

Wake up to a freshly baked pastry and a steaming cup of coffee to prepare you for the day—we have quite a long and exciting one planned today.

We depart Spain, crossing the border into Portugal with a cheerful farewell. Our journey takes us from the rolling Andulicia to the banks of the Guardian River—-the natural boundary between Spain and Portugal. Once we cross, our bikes will be waiting in the picturesque Pueblo Blanco of Alcoutim. Take a moment to soak in the village’s charm before setting out on a scenic ride along lush, winding paths.

The destination is a stunning Quinta (farm). We break for lunch here. Far from the famous golden beaches of Algarve, this veiled gem reveals another facet of the region’s beauty. We savour a delicious lunch right on the farm’s garden patio, where the blooming tree, vibrant flowers, and serene views of the river and distant mountains paint a masterpiece.

After our lunch, you have the option to extend your ride, with more focus on descending the lush Algarve hills towards the tranquil waters of Belich Dam. you may also choose to take a more laid approach—comfortably shuttling to the Octant Praia Verde, our Luxurious retreat for the next two nights. Just a short 10-minute walk from a stunning white-sand beach, this haven offers plenty of options to make your afternoon even more exciting. You can rent a stand-up paddleboard, kayak, or mountain bike from local vendors and whip up your very own list of exciting adventures by the sea.

With the sun faded into the skies, we gather for dinner on the hotel’s charming wooden deck, set amidst a tranquil pine forest adorned with twinkling fairy lights.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 50 km (31 miles), Elevation gain: 671 m (2,200 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 64 km (40 miles), Elevation gain: 884 m (2,900 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 84 km (52 miles), Elevation gain: 1,067 m (3,500 ft)

Today, we venture north of Octant Praia Verde, tracing a route through the striking landscapes of Castro Marim, where shimmering salt baths stretch in expansive white and amber pools beneath the boundless Algarve sky. Centuries of salt harvesting are etched into these serene waters, which reflect both the sun and a past enriched by time. The air here carries a salty tang, blending with the fragrance of wild herbs wafting from the backcountry hillsides.

Our path weaves through Tavira, a town where history lingers in every step. Its cobbled streets, twisting in narrow, labyrinthine paths, reveal whitewashed facades decorated with hand-painted azulejos—tiles that quietly tell the tales of Moorish ancestry. Take a pause for a café break along the sun-dappled riverfront or wander into hidden courtyards where cascades of bougainvillaea drape the walls in rich purples and pinks, adding vibrant colour to this ancient town.

Continuing on, we arrive at Ria Formosa Natural Park, a coastal refuge where the gentle wetlands embrace the Atlantic. Here, indulge in lunch at your own pace, perhaps at a seaside café with a perfect view over the shimmering lagoon as graceful flamingos and other seabirds wade through the shallow waters.

The afternoon unfolds with more captivating scenes as we pedal through rolling hills lined with fig and orange groves. Their sweet, earthy scent fills the warm air, reminding us of the Algarve’s fruitful days under sunlit skies and gentle sea breezes. These same golden rays nurture the nearby vineyards, where local wines thrive and promise a taste of the land itself.

As the sun dips lower, choose to cycle back to the hotel in the soft afternoon light or take an early shuttle for a leisurely return. Back at the hotel, unwind by the pool or stroll the grounds, where fragrant pine forests give way to sweeping ocean vistas.

Tonight, surrender to the charms of Octant Praia Verde as you dine at your own pace in the hotel’s exquisite gourmet restaurant. Linger as you please, letting each bite melt into a moment, before wandering the enchanting grounds bathed in twilight’s gentle glow.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 45 km (28 miles), Elevation gain: 427 m (1,400 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 69 km (43 miles), Elevation gain: 762 m (2,500 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 76 km (47 miles), Elevation gain: 1,036 m (3,400 ft)

Begin your day with a serene ride along the stunning coastline, threading through charming fishing villages and skirting the enchanting Ria Formosa lagoon. This vast wetland, edged by six barrier islands, opens to the sea with glittering inlets. Pedal slowly, keeping an eye out for graceful visitors—flamingos, storks, and egrets gliding through this peaceful sanctuary.

Along the way, we pause for a delightful picnic featuring local delicacies at a family-owned olive oil press, where the inviting ambiance encourages you to relax and savour the moment before we embark on the next leg of our adventure. Once back on our bikes, we journey inland, winding through fragrant orange and olive groves. Here, a thrilling ascent awaits—the week's most rewarding climb. (though van support is always available for a little extra lift when needed).

Our destination is the newly opened Viceroy Ombria Algarve, where every room offers sweeping vistas of the sun-drenched valley. Golf enthusiasts can also indulge in the 18-hole course (advanced reservations recommended; not included in the trip price).

Tonight, we gather for cocktails on the terrace, celebrating our week long adventure. A gourmet farewell dinner awaits— a real feast to celebrate our unforgettable journey through Spain and Portugal.

Level 2, Approx. 21 km (13 miles), Elevation gain: 366 m (1,200 ft)

After an enchanting week traversing the Iberian Peninsula’s most breathtaking vistas, our journey crescendos in one final ride through the spellbinding Serra de Caldeirão mountains. We pedal past storied windmills standing watch over undulating hills, a canvas painted in vivid strokes of pink cistus, golden gorse, and lavender gently bowing to the breeze.

If a slower pace calls to you, linger at the hotel for a leisurely morning. Wander its scenic trails or stroll the golf course, surrounded by serene nature.

As we gather one final time, bid farewell to your trip leaders before boarding the shuttle bound for Lisbon.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.