Discovering the South-West part of Algarve

The anticipation was palpable as I boarded the early morning bus from Lisbon to Lagos, ready to kick off my cycling journey along the stunning Algarve coast. Upon arrival in Lagos, the excitement was momentarily halted as I discovered the bike shop was closed for lunch. However, once the wheels were in motion, my Decathlon bike with a convenient front rack became the perfect companion.

Heading towards the rugged cliffs alongside Lagos, the coastal route to Sagres, the southwesternmost point of continental Europe, unveiled breathtaking views. One notable stop was the “Praia da Mareta,” where a picturesque rainbow painted the sky. The Airbnb in Sagres served as a comfortable base to explore the surroundings, providing a glimpse into the coastal charm of the region.

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As you pedal along the coastline, keep an eye out for the iconic Ponta da Piedade cliffs near Lagos, offering panoramic views and unique rock formations. Another must-see is Cape St. Vincent, located near Sagres, known for its historic lighthouse and dramatic cliffs.

The second day commenced with a leisurely breakfast in Sagres, setting the stage for another day of adventure. The route unfolded through enchanting pine forests, with glimpses of the sea in the background. Navigating some challenging ascents tested both my fitness and the capabilities of my trusty bike.

Upon reaching Aljezur, a detour to the Castelo de Aljezur offered a rewarding view, especially since my Couchsurfing hosts were still out. Meeting the hosts, a friendly German expat family from Freiburg, brought an unexpected delight. We bonded over a Freiburg – Schalke football match, despite the unfortunate 0:1 outcome for Freiburg.

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Explore the historic charm of Aljezur by visiting its medieval castle, Castelo de Aljezur, which provides a panoramic view of the town and surrounding landscapes. For a taste of local cuisine, try the Aljezur sweet potato, a regional specialty.

With an afternoon bus back to Lisbon on the agenda, I embarked on an early morning ride from Aljezur towards Lagos. Familiarity with cycling grew, allowing me to navigate more confidently. In Lagos, with time to spare, a refreshing dip in the sea awaited me.

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Discover the charm of Lagos’ historic center, where cobbled streets lead to local cafes and artisan shops. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the nearby Praia da Arrifana, a picturesque beach popular among surfers, framed by cliffs and rolling hills.