Tag: Algarve Granfondo

Portugal is known for its beauty, affordability, yellow trams in Lisbon, proximity to Spain, and mild climate. It is popular with tourists and expats alike, especially remote workers. Unfortunately, this influx of visitors to the country has driven up prices and affected locals’ daily lives.

While Lisbon and Porto continue to be the two areas of Portugal that attract the largest number of tourists every year, there is an alternative to escape the crowds. So, if you want to experience the real Portugal, rent a car and drive south to the Algarve region. And if you go in February, and you have an interest in pro cycling, you’ll have the chance to check out an early-season race called the Volta ao Algarve and even get to ride in a grandfondo if you so desire.

About the Algarve Region of Portugal

The Algarve region of Portugal is located in the southern part of the country, where the Atlantic Ocean borders it on the south and west. The Algarve is also a popular area known for its beaches, cliffs, climate, and for the charming small towns spread along the coast, such as Lagos.

To reach the Algarve region, you can rent a car in Porto, Lisbon, or other points north and drive south for 2.5 to 3 hours, which will provide the flexibility to explore other areas in the country at your own leisure. You can also fly or travel by train, but these sources of transportation will take a few hours longer, but they will minimize the stress of driving in a country you may or may not be familiar with.

The Volta ao Algarve Race and Its History

The Volta ao Algarve (Tour of the Algarve) is a 5 stage race held in mid February. It’s a race many pros use as a training ground for the spring classics. The tour has been taking place since 1960, but it didn’t become a UCI-sanctioned event until 2020.

Additionally, even though the Volta ao Algarve is a pro race, primarily European pro teams participate in this event, although, since becoming an official UCI event, British and American teams also participate in the race.

Algarve Granfondo for Amateur Racers

During the weekend of the Volta ao Algarve, the Algarve Granfondo is held for amateur racers and endurance athletes. It is a one-day event that is 130 kilometers (80 miles) and is a loop that starts and ends in Lagos.

Participants can choose from two options for this event. They can either ride the full course or choose a shortened version called the Mediofondo, which is 90 kilometers (55 miles). Registration is $45.00 or $50 for late registration. Both include the following generous inclusions:

• Algarve Granfondo Giveaways

• Solid and liquid supplies

• Professional Photos

• Bicycle Front

• Lunch

• Insurance

• Medical Assistance

• Mechanical assistance during the race.

• Finisher Medal

*** Includes a  (day) license issued by the Portuguese Cycling Federation, which includes personal accident and civil liability insurance .

Last Thoughts

Portugal is a lovely country with lovely people. If you get the chance to go, I’d highly recommend it. While Porto and Lisbon are the most well-known cities in the country, the real beauty of the country awaits outside the city centers. And if you are a cyclist, the Volta ao Algarve sounds like a grand event to witness, where you are sure to see some action play out on the road between the pros.

If you have time (and by chance bring your bike with you), maybe you can even participate in the Algarve Granfondo? The registration fee is low, the course is probably challenging and fun, and the Portuguese Cycling Federation offers several bonuses for signing up. So, register now for next year’s grandfondo and experience the beauty of Portugal and some epic cycling.