Is it the right vacation for you? This trip is for cyclists who can comfortably bike 40 to 50 miles a day over moderate terrain with some steeper hills. Much of our cycling will be on lightly traveled roads across rolling terrain along the Atlantic coast. There are some hills on this route along with some days of mostly flat riding.

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An illustrated itinerary of one of our many travel adventures for gay men, lesbians, and friends.

Starting near Lisbon, we’ll cycle along quiet roads to the brilliant beaches of the Algarve, and taste the beauty of Portugal. Hugging the Atlantic Coast, our route will take us past charming windmills, historic nautical sites, and quaint fishing villages. Each day will offer a different experience and often a challenging ride. Our reward at the end of each day: fine cuisine, excellent wines, and warm Portuguese hospitality in unique lodgings.

1: Lisbon

Our tour starts as we meet at our hotel in Lisbon for an orientation. For those arriving early, we invite you to explore the heart of the old city, including the Alfama district, Lisbon’s most scenic quarter. It was first settled by the Romans and Visigoths, and it was an important Jewish quarter in the 15th century, but it was the Moors who gave the district its distinctive atmosphere. Tonight’s Welcome Dinner will include live Fado music.

2: Getting ready in Setubal

After breakfast, we depart by van for the Arrabida Peninsula, just south of Lisbon. On the way we’ll stop at a winery (adega) in the quaint small town of Azeitao. We will also tour a local tile factory where they carry on the ancient tradition of painting azualejos (blue tiles) by hand. Upon arrival at our Setubal hotel, our guides will help us check out and fit our bikes. This afternoon there will be two cycling options: a demanding ride over the Arrabida hills with sea views; or a gentler ride to the beach and back. This evening's dinner is on your own and you can explore Setubal at your own pace.

3: Santiago de Cacem (64 km ride)

After breakfast we ride out to the ferry to cross to the Troia Peninsula. Today's ride along the beach is flat with time to eat lunch at a number of seaside restaurants. There will also be time to stop for a swim on the beautiful white sand beaches. Our accommodation for the night is in a posada built in 1947, a small gem that is part of the national network of historic hotels. Dinner will be at our inn this evening.

4: Following Sir Francis Drake (50 km ride)

Today's ride includes a stop at the most extensive Roman ruins south of Lisbon. We continue on to the town of Vila Nova de Milfontes, named for its many sources of water. This perfect white-washed, blue-trimmed fishing village is typical of the Alentejo region that hugs the coast south of Lisbon. We’ll stay in a fortress castle that was once ransacked by Sir Francis Drake.

In season, Vila Nova is a popular water sports center, but it still retains its quiet village charm. There's so much to see and appreciate that we will spend two nights here. You'll find beautiful coastal walks, unspoiled beaches, and many tascas and cafes where you can enjoy drinks and local cuisine. Dinner is on your own this evening.

5: Vila Nova de Milfontes (optional 37 km loop)

After breakfast we'll set out on a loop ride that will take us past fields of wildflowers, and include a stop at a working windmill. This afternoon is free to relax on the beach or explore the town. This evening we will enjoy a special dinner of local cuisine.

6: Moor Riding! (70 km ride)

Today we depart for the rugged headland of Zumbujeira do Mar. The route follows a line of old fortifications of the Moors. After a strenuous ride, we'll arrive in a medieval town of Aljezur, our first stop in the Algarve region. Lying along a narrow river, the town was founded by the Arabs, conquered by the Portuguese in 1246, and is dominated by a hilltop fortress. Relax at the atmospheric Albergaria Oceano, our hotel for the night. Dinner is at a lovely restaurant with a view.

7: Lagos (40 km ride)

Today our final ride is to the white town of Lagos, the last stop for the Africa-bound caravels in the 16th and 17th centuries. The town preserves remains of that trade in the old slave market and many churches funded by the wealth that poured into Portugal during the Age of Discovery. We'll arrive in time to check into our hotel and have a quick lunch, then enjoy a afternoon cruise off the coast of Lagos. This is a great walking town and there will be some time to explore before our Farewell Dinner at a popular local restaurant.

8: Departure Day

Our tour ends in Lagos, but a morning transfer will be provided to the Faro Airport for anyone leaving the area today. We hope you will have safe journey home!