The classic climb
Alto do Malhão
The final climb of the Volta ao Algarve starts near Salir, a few kilometres from the villa.
Every February the professional peloton races up the Malhão. In 2025 Jonas Vingegaard won the Volta here, in 2026 Juan Ayuso. The climb is short and steep, and from the top you look out over the Serra do Caldeirão.
| Length | 2.6 km |
| Average gradient | 9.1 % |
| Race | Volta ao Algarve, final stage |
| Start | Near Salir |
Rides from the door
Four rides to start with
From the villa you are straight into the hills. Quiet country roads lead to the Serra in the north and down to the coast in the south.
| Malhão loop Salir, Alto do Malhão and São Bartolomeu de Messines – 69 km and 1,090 m of climbing from Salir | Hard |
| Rocha da Pena Through the Barrocal to the limestone plateau near Penina | Moderate |
| Querença and Fonte Benémola Past Ombria and through the valley to the village of Querença | Moderate |
| To the coast Via Loulé down to Vilamoura – and back up into the hills | Moderate |
Plan your cycling stay
Best season
October to May. Winters are mild and dry on most days; in summer it is best to ride early in the morning.
Bikes
Bring your own bike or rent one locally: Bikesul offers bike rentals and daily tours, with delivery and collection
At the villa
A hearty breakfast at the outdoor counter before the ride, and the pool afterwards.