CHARACTER
The southern Alentejo is still a cycling development region. You won't find a cycle path here, but cyclists often have the small country roads to themselves, as on our trekking bike route. The hinterland is hilly, but with mostly moderate gradients. The Rota Vicentina along the coast offers only a bumpy sand and gravel track for long stretches, but leads to dream beaches and high cliffs. Caution: Motorised vehicles always have right of way in Portugal!
TIME TO TRAVEL
Cycling is most pleasant from February (almond blossom, lemon harvest) to June and from mid-September to mid-November. It often rains heavily in December and January, while the summer is too hot for cycling.
OUR TOUR
Route: Santa Clara reservoir - Odemira - Zambujeira do Mar - Cabo Sardao - Almograve - Vila Nova de Milfontes - Cercal do Alentejo - Santiago do Cacem.
Recommended in three to four day stages.
ARRIVAL
The quickest way is by plane to Lisbon or Faro. The onward journey by public transport is somewhat difficult, as the Portuguese railway only transports bicycles disassembled and packed as hand luggage. Alternative: Our team took a large-capacity taxi from the Algarve to Santa Clara railway station in the southern Alentejo.
FOOD
O Sacas: Rustic fish restaurant at a tiny harbour near Zambujeira do Mar. www.osacas.casasbrancas.pt
Tasca do Celso: Down-to-earth, popular restaurant combined with a small wine shop in the alleyways of Vila Nova de Milfontes, www.tascadocelso.com
OUR ACCOMMODATION TIP
Casas Brancas: Hotels and reaturants that support sustainable tourism, www.casasbrancas.pt
- Nave Redonda do Cerro: Agroturismo estate in a beautifully restored Monte house near the Santa Clara reservoir. www.naveredondadocerro.com
- Herdade do Touril: Alentejo cottages furnished with love and comfort above the Atlantic cliffs. www.herdadedotouril.pt
- Casa do Adro: Small guesthouse in a 17th century town house in Vila Nova de Milfontes. Extremely friendly hospitality. www.casadoadro.com.pt
LITERATURE & MAPS
To get you in the mood: DuMont Travel Guide "Portugal", 416 pages, 22.95 euros. For orientation: Marco Polo map "Portugal South" 1:200.00 at 8.99 euros.
INFORMATION
Turismo de Portugal, Tel. 030/254106-0,
www.visitportugal.com, www.visitalentejo.pt
