Cycling Lagos: 9 best cycling routes Lagos and the western Algarve, Portugal

Menir da Pedra do Galo MTB Route

Luís Coelho from Portugal A2Z says: “Experience a peaceful, easy ride through the lush National Forest of Barão de S. João with this circular route.

This ride is perfect for those new to mountain biking, offering bikers the chance to explore this serene pine forest at a relaxed pace. The 18-kilometre route features gentle terrain with only a 131-metre climb to tackle, making it an ideal choice for beginners looking to gain confidence while enjoying nature.

As you approach the end of the ride, you can take a moment to unwind at the park, which is a perfect spot to relax and reflect on the ride.

While this route follows familiar trails, it’s a great option for those wanting to experience the Algarve’s beauty at a more leisurely pace.”

Vila da Luz MTB Route

Luís Coelho from Portugal A2Z says: “Set off on a scenic journey through the southern part of Lagos, connecting the mountain trails to the stunning beach views.

This route takes you past the charming Praia da Luz, and its gorgeous coastline. The 35 kilometre loop combines moderate terrain with a 350 metre climb, offering a great mix of challenging sections and breathtaking landscapes. As you pedal through varied paths, you’ll get glimpses of the Algarve’s natural charm, with the mountain scenery giving way to the allure of the coast.

With views of the coastline, this is an ideal ride for those looking to explore the quieter parts of Lagos while enjoying both the mountains and the beach.”

Barriga – Baranco gravel ride

Jerom from Musette Bike says “The Algarve is the place to come for gravel riding and this is one of the best rides there is. You head out into the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano and Costa Vicentina on sandy trails through scrubby grasslands, shaded woodland and along craggy coastal cliffs down to the deserted beach at Praia da Barriga. It’s quite a special thing to find a huge beach that’s not accessible by car and untouched by a beach restaurant.

You then head south, down to the beach at Praia do Barranco, another isolated gem in the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano. Small roads then lead back to Salema.

As most of this ride is extremely rural and in the Natural Park, there are very few villages or restaurants. You can refuel at Raposeira, on the way down to Praia do Barranco but you’ll need to be self-sufficient before then.

This ride is one for those that love splendid isolation and getting away from it all.”

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Lagos (Route 26) road ride

Top tip! This is the first of several Algarve Cycling Routes featured in this article. Each number corresponds to the official designation given to that specific route, ensuring consistency with regional cycling maps and materials, and making it easier for cyclists to identify and follow recognised paths.

Luís Coelho from Portugal A2Z says, “You start your ride where Portugal’s Age of Discovery began! For those unfamiliar, the “Age of Discovery” was a period between the end of the 15th century and the 17th century, during which seafarers explored the entire world. In Portugal, it is believed that they set off from the Algarve region.

Pedal along the wide avenue honouring Infante D. Henrique, passing the Boavista golf course with sweeping views of Porto do Mós beach.

From there, the stunning Praia da Luz and Burgau beaches lead you inland, where you’ll cross the EN 125 to Almádena, a charming village filled with whitewashed homes and iconic Algarve chimneys. Ride on through Portelas and Odiáxere, heading towards the expansive Meia Praia beach.

Your journey concludes at Lagos Marina, with its impressive city walls in view.”

Lagos road bike spin

Jerom from Musette Bike says “This undulating ride starts and finishes at the Musette Bike cafe. This cafe is a great place to hire bikes from, and the interior draws inspiration from Jerom’s Belgian heritage. Riders can treat themselves to a well-earned Belgian waffle or other delicious local treats, as well as freshly brewed coffee, or even artisanal beer after their ride!

The route heads towards Lagos and passes through several nice villages. You pass through the bustling Praia da Luz first, which is popular with holidaying Brits.

Eventually, you come to Lagos, which is busier again (though bear in mind I’ve only ever been caught in a traffic jam three times in Lagos – and one of those was due to loose goats on the road!). You head around Lagos’ marina and past the sandy sweep of the Meia Praia beach.

Turning inland, this is where the “real Algarve” begins as you head out into the countryside. It’s all vineyards, farms growing avocados, oranges and fig trees. You’ll pass small villages, including the quiet and pretty village of Burgau. Many have little cafes and restaurants usually serving an excellent daily dish of the day for a mere 6-9 euros.

Our guests often comment on how much they enjoy seeing the Algarve’s unspoilt countryside on this ride.”

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Bravura Dam Route

Luís from Portugal A2Z says “Get ready for an exhilarating circular route around Bravura Dam, where fast and fun trails will keep you on your toes as you navigate the scenic surroundings.

The route takes you along the dam’s edge, offering a mix of challenging terrain and stunning views of the rugged Algarve interior. After working up a sweat, stop at the café by the dam to recharge before completing this adventure.

With its 63 kilometre distance and a climb to 250 metres, this ride is a great way to discover the heart of Lagos’ countryside while enjoying the rush of off-road cycling.”

Lagos (Route 31)

Luís from Portugal A2Z says,  “Get ready for an epic ride through the stunning Costa Vicentina and Monchique Mountains, where you’ll follow in the footsteps of Portugal’s legendary explorers.

Start by conquering the Serra de Espinhaço de Cão, then take a detour through Aljezur, a charming town brimming with history. After refuelling, gear up for the climb to Marmelete and beyond. From the medronho brandy region of Portela do Vale, wind your way through the uplands and head toward Fóia.

The ride continues through Monchique, Alferce, and Picota before a thrilling descent back to Lagos.”

Lagos (Route 33)

Luís from Portugal A2Z says “Kick off your ride along the rugged coastline, where the cliffs create a dramatic setting. Pedal towards Odiáxere, following the Arão Stream, and pass by the Algarve International Motor Racing Circuit.

The route offers rolling terrain as you make your way through Senhora do Verde, Rasmalho, and Porto de Lagos. Prepare for the 11-kilometre climb to Picota, the second-highest point in the region, where the panoramic views are worth the effort. Then, enjoy an exciting descent into Monchique before winding around Fóia’s summit.

The final stretch takes you through Aljezur, Carrapateira, Vila do Bispo, and Budens, with a relaxing ride along the coastal road to the beaches of Burgau and Luz.”

King of the Hill Road Bike Challenge

Jerom from Musette Bike says “This route takes you from sea level to the highest point in the Algarve, the summit of the Foia climb in the Serra de Monchique range of mountains. It’s often used by the Volta ao Algarve and, despite the fact the summit is (only) at 980m, because you’re climbing from sea level, this route has the feeling of a mountain stage.

We reach the north side of the Foia climb, via small roads that lead along the picturesque edge of the Natural Park. The north side hasn’t got the best tarmac and is steep, but the upside is that there is virtually no traffic as you wind upwards surrounded by cork, olive and eucalyptus trees. At the top there are far-reaching views. The descent down the south side of the Foia climb is brilliant, on much better tarmac and with nice long turns.

Make sure you stop at the Tasca do Petrol restaurant about half way down to refuel – and perhaps even sample the local delicacy of wild boar stew!”

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A huge thank you to Jerom and Luís for sharing their expertise. We hope you enjoy exploring this area of the Algarve – let us know how you get on in the comments below!

Want to know more about cycling in the Algarve?

Don’t miss our in-depth guide to cycling in the Algarve. We share everything from where to stay, to when to come and what to bring.

For more cycling regions and routes in Portugal take a look at this overview guide.

Once you’ve read that, you might also like:

• The best cycling routes from Albufeira
• The best cycling routes from Tavira
• Our article on the best cycling events in the Algarve to watch and take part in.

Luís is the co-founder and general manager of Portugal A2Z.  Adventurous, passionate, proactive, and persistent, Luís lives life on two wheels! He thrives on new challenges, whether it's lining up at the start of a cycling race, exploring an unknown trail, or taking on a new professional adventure. 

As an avid cyclist, Luís believes life is full of dreams to chase and experiences to savour, especially from the saddle of his bike. He values connecting with people and believes that, as a team, we can reach the ends of the earth—and beyond—together.  He feels fulfilled when, at the end of a cycling tour, we share our passion for Portugal with our clients. It gives meaning to everything he stands for. 

Jerom Pannier runs Musette Bike and has lived in Portugal for many years.

Jerom says "Our mission is to provide a high-quality service. We have two shops,  one in Almádena, close to Lagos , called Musette.bike;  we also rent bikes to guests staying at the Martinhal resort near Sagres.

From each shop you can hire high quality carbon road bikes as well as e-bikes, mountain bikes, gravel bikes and kids bikes. Our prices include little extras, including a waterbottle, puncture repair kit and pump. For an additional cost, we can also provide helmets, pedals, access to a library of routes, as well as a bikepacking set-up.  Bike delivery is available (1 euro per kilometre and a 15 euro minimum) as well as guided tours.

Our multilingual team (but fear not, everyone speaks English!) love to take guests out to explore their beautiful region. Our mantra is that good service starts with a smile.”