You can now rent a quality mountain bike from Algarve Bike Hire and see much more of the real Algarve. All our bikes are new for 2004 and we can offer bikes standard hardtail bikes, front suspension and full suspension 26" wheel models. We also have a few full suspension bikes wit h15" frames and 24" wheels for younger riders. All bikes have water bottles fitted where possible, and come with security locks so you can leave them, locked whilst you rest on t he beach and take a swim in the clear blue sea..

From our rental base in Carvoeiro, there are many beaches within one hour's cycle ride. Most of these beaches are quiet all year as many tourists just don't know they exist. From Carvoeiro heading west along the coast road it is less than10 km to the pretty fishing village of Ferragudo with it's fabulous beach and great restaurants. Another 5 km, and you are into the town or Portimao, with it's marina, beaches, fishing harbour and of course the shops, bars and restaurants. Just over the old bridge, to the right, in among the cobbled streets is the area to eat fresh barbeque grilled sardines. Left over the bridge is where many of the full or half day boat trips along the coast depart from.

Heading east out of Carvoeiro towards O Farol (the lighthouse), and beyond, are some of the most spectacular sandstone cliffs, coves and beaches on the Algarve. Many of these beaches are quiet even in the summer, and there are a few that regular tourists never find, and even some that many locals have not yet discovered. The roads are pretty quiet, and there are some great cliff top areas to explore too.

There are several roads heading north to the town of Lagoa, which has some hidden treasures of its own including "O Ciclo" Restaurant for huge crabs and fresh fish at lunch time. It may not look much from the outside, but the town's mayor and chairman of the council don't eat there for the view. Lagoa has retained it's original old market, which opens daily around 9.00 am for fresh fish, meat vegetables and fruit, at a fraction of the cost in the supermarkets.

Through Lagoa and it's only another five Kms to the historic town of Silves with it's Moorish castle and archaeological ruins. Also of interest at Silves is the "Fabrica Ingles", the old cork factory, now a museum, theatre, restaurants and exhibition centre. There is usually something going on there for most of the summer, including the Algarve beer festival in July. A must for lovers of Latin Jazz and cool Brazilian music is the Cafe Ingles restaurant on a Sunday afternoon. Sit under the shade of the trees and savour the ambience created by some of the best musicians you are ever likely to hear.

Explore the area around Silves riding along small country roads through the orange groves, and open countryside. Stop at local bars, and cafes and buy lunch for a fraction of the price charged in the tourist places.