Location

How to get there

Airports 

Faro FAO (official airport) / Lisbon LIS

Return transfers from the official airport provided by the organizer with a maximum waiting time of 90 minutes (Add-on option)

Next to the race

Rural architecture and white coastal villages

The villages of south-west Portugal rise up from the hills or cliffs, with their white houses with colorful shutters, cobbled streets and discreet churches. Traditional architecture blends sobriety and practicality: lime-covered walls, red-tiled roofs, small balconies and regional fireplaces.

This architectural simplicity contrasts with the grandeur of the surrounding natural landscapes.

Gastronomy: the ocean on your plate

Southwest Portugal, bordering the Atlantic, lives to the rhythm of the sea. Enjoy freshly caught fish and seafood (shellfish, octopus, perch), accompanied by aromatic herbs such as coriander, oregano and laurel.

Coastal taverns offer dishes such as caldeirada de peixe (fish stew), grilled sardines and the famous bacalhau à lagareiro. All accompanied by a glass of chilled Alentejo white wine or vinho verde. Traditional desserts, often based on almonds, figs or sweet potatoes, complete this gustatory journey.

Folk culture, crafts and soul music

In this region, culture is alive and well, in rural markets and village festivals. As you ride through the villages on your gravel bike, it's not uncommon to hear Fado, a World Heritage Site, echoing around the corner of a café. Music also has a special place in this region of Portugal.

Hrustic hospitality and portuguese sincerity

In southwest Portugal, hospitality is a way of life. The locals, often discreet but warm-hearted, welcome visitors like friends. You'll be invited to taste a homemade soup, to share a drink, to enjoy between timed stages. You'll never be alone throughout your adventure, and there's always a kindly eye ready to come to your aid should the slightest problem arise.

Unspoilt nature

The Costa Vicentina, a nature park, is one of Europe's last unspoilt coastlines, with its black cliffs, secret beaches, dunes, pine forests and aromatic scrubland. The fishermen's trail (Rota Vicentina) winds along the ocean, offering spectacular panoramas where the sea meets the rock. Just be careful not to get too caught up in these splendid views, and watch where you put your tires!

Further inland, the Monchique mountains offer a cool ride, with their springs, eucalyptus forests and views of the Atlantic.