From the Roads of Our Algarve to the Tour de France Podium
When you think of the Tour de France, you imagine epic mountain passes, roaring crowds, and champions pushing their limits to the very last breath. But where does this journey truly begin?
For many riders, it starts long before they pin on a race number – on quiet winter roads, away from the spotlight, where they build the form that carries them to victory. And one of their favourite winter training grounds is right here: our Algarve.
Volta ao Algarve 2024
Who Trains Here?
Over the years, the Algarve has hosted cycling training camps for some of the world's top teams, including:
- UAE Team Emirates – home of Tadej Pogačar, who took his first professional win here in 2019 on Alto da Fóia.
- Soudal Quick-Step – with Remco Evenepoel, who recently dominated the Volta ao Algarve time trial stages and now contends for yellow at the Tour de France.
- Team Visma | Lease a Bike – Jonas Vingegaard’s team, using Algarve roads for early season base and TT training.
These are not just names - they are riders shaping the future of cycling, and their journey often includes our very own roads and climbs.
Malhão: The Algarve’s Own “Mini Alpe d’Huez”
Ask any rider who has tackled the Malhão climb near Loulé. Short but brutal, with gradients hitting 20% in places, it’s the decisive stage finish of the Volta ao Algarve and a favourite for pro-level intervals.
Imagine training where Pogačar launched attacks, where Evenepoel tested his legs, and where countless champions built the form that carried them to France’s biggest stage.
Ready to Train Like a Champion?
At Algarve Cycling, we don’t just rent you a bike. We help you ride like the pros:
✅ Premium road bikes with full pre-ride fitting
✅ Routes designed for performance and adventure
✅ Guided rides to Malhão, Fóia, and hidden local climbs
✅ Support from cyclists who know every bend of these roads
Whether you are preparing for your own sportive, building winter base, or simply seeking the ultimate riding experience, the Algarve is your ideal training ground.
Learn More:
- Volta ao Algarve Official Website
- Tour de France Official Website
- Tadej Pogačar - The Rider Who Began His Journey in the Algarve
Share:
