Cycling day trip from Aljezur to Vila do Bispo

This ride takes you from the laid-back surf town of Aljezur down to the rugged charm of Vila do Bispo, slicing right through the wild heart of the Costa Vicentina Natural Park. Expect just under 40 km of mostly unpaved fun—about two-thirds of the route is gravel or earth trails, so a gravel or MTB is your best bet (leave the skinny tires at home!).

You’ll start in Aljezur, famous for its historic 10th-century castle and sweet potato festival, then roll south through open countryside, cork oak forests, and the sweeping Atlantic views that make the Algarve’s west coast legendary. There’s a good bit of climbing on this route—just under 600 meters in total ascent—but you’ll be rewarded with awesome vistas and peaceful tracks far from busy roads.

As you close in on Vila do Bispo, the landscape gets even wilder. This small, whitewashed town sits close to the southwestern tip of Europe and is a gateway to windswept beaches and cliffs. Bring snacks and plenty of water—the ride is a mini adventure that shows off the natural beauty of southern Portugal!