Flyingeese groups often decide they want to tackle some or all of the route of the Volta ao Algarve, which has become an iconic race since its inception in 1960.
Held in early February, it’s part of the UCI Europe Tour and always attracts an impressive field. GB’s own Geraint Thomas has won the race for the last two years with Team Sky, adding his name to a list of victors including Alberto Contador, Floyd Landis and many other greats.
The Volta ao Algarve has five stages. The route varies from year to year, but generally speaking it takes place over hills and mountains, with a flatter mid-race time-trial section included. It’s particularly good for climbing fans, and has a lot of exposure to the coast for those who like sea views and sea air.
The 2017 Volta ao Algarve race included an ascent of the Alto da Foia, at 914 metres the highest point in the Algarve and a challenge for anybody. The 50mph descents from the summit down to a spectacular finish above the Atlantic Ocean are among the most memorable experiences you’ll ever have on a bike, not to mention the beauty of the mountain valleys and rustic villages you’ll pass through.
Choosing an itinerary to suit every rider’s aims and abilities is really important to us here at Flyingeese, and we’ll only ever recommend a programme that suits you. But if it includes some of the 2017 Volta ao Algarve, then so much the better.