The most authentic journey is the one that allows you to explore and experience the traditions of a place: today we have decided to take you with us to Portugal, to cycle together to discover the typical dishes of the Algarve.

The Algarve is the southernmost region of Portugal and one of the most fascinating areas of this country. Here winds a beautiful cycling route, the Ecovia do Litoral, which crosses the Algarve and connects Vila Real de San Antonio to the Cabo of Sao Vicente for a total of 215 km.

Our gastronomic itinerary involves starting from Vila Real de San Antonio, a beautiful town on the banks of the Guadiana river: from here we cycle west, crossing fragrant almond and orange groves, until we reach the wonderful Olhao, a city characterized by low white houses and Moorish architectural style, also famous for the festival dedicated to seafood. A stop on the Atlantic Ocean cannot be missed: the coasts of this part of Portugal are unique because they alternate wonderful golden beaches with high cliffs, guaranteeing a dream panorama. The seaside resorts of Albufeira and Portimau are ideal for tasting the delicious typical dishes of local cuisine and enjoying an unforgettable view.

In addition to getting in touch with nature, exploring places that can only be reached on foot and by bicycle, this trip gives you the chance to experience Portuguese cuisine, and in particular the typical dishes of the Algarve. Considering the geography and climate of this small region overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, trying the fish-based dishes is a categorical imperative. A very popular recipe is based on clams: the ameijoas na cataplana. Among the most appreciated dishes of Portuguese cuisine, its secret lies in the use of the cataplana, a copper pot of Arab origin, which retains all the flavor and aroma of the cooked ingredients.

Besides the famous perceves, small crustaceans not found in Italy, the Algarve offers many other fresh fish recipes, cooked either on the grill or following the old traditions of the fishermen, that is, cooking it slowly on the grill. Among the specialties, there are boiled mackerel, octopus cooked in wine and grilled sardine, accompanied by the montanheira salad, prepared with tomatoes and oregano. The traditional dishes of the Algarve are many and are not all based on fish: the desserts Don Rodrigo and the Morgadinhos, based on almonds and figs, are two delicacies that cannot be missed.

Traveling is like rediscovering oneself, taking a break from routine, rediscovering one's connection with nature and experiencing all the possibilities that a country can offer, such as cuisine. The ingredients that make the cuisine of the Algarve a unique and particular gastronomic experience are simple and genuine: the seafood and fresh fish that come from the Ocean to which are added vegetables and fruit, ripened in the sun. A concentrate of authenticity, genuineness and tradition that no one can resist!

Have you been tempted to discover this wonderful region? Leaving for a tour of the Algarve by bike not only offers you the opportunity to visit the most hidden places and get in touch with the locals, but also to taste the exquisite local specialties without feeling guilty!