Need ideas for your next gravel adventure?
Here’s a route along Portugal’s southwest coast that I’ve been riding and refining — a gravel-heavy alternative to the better-known EuroVelo. EuroVelo route here is almost entirely asphalt, and in some sections the car traffic can be quite noticeable.
I’m based in Setúbal and regularly ride in this region.
This route keeps you off the tarmac most of the way: about 310 km, 2900 m of climbing, and roughly 78% gravel, including forest tracks, coastal paths, rural roads, and the occasional quiet paved link.
The route starts with a short ferry ride from Setúbal to Tróia, then passes near the rice fields by Comporta, with the option to check out what’s said to be Europe’s longest, emptiest beach — nearly 60 km of uninterrupted Atlantic coastline. From there, it winds through varied forest terrain: pine in the north, with oak and eucalyptus appearing as you head south. Closer to Sagres, the landscape shifts — the coastline becomes more open, with low scrub, flowering plants, and towering 100-meter cliffs that leave a lasting impression.
There are two loops inland — one around Sines to avoid industrial roads, and another near Vila Nova de Milfontes to skip deep sand. But they’re not just workarounds: these parts take you through quiet countryside and wild, open hills, with wide views toward the coast and the ocean on the horizon.
Wherever there’s a good gravel road that runs close to the water, the route follows it. There are also a few short spurs to reach beaches or viewpoints that are worth the extra effort.
It’s best ridden north to south, with the prevailing northwest wind. But if you’re doing a shorter trip and can pick your timing, you could also ride it in reverse — especially if the forecast suggests a southerly wind.
The route includes a few sandy sections (especially between Comporta and Grândola), but they are mostly rideable on 40–50 mm tires.
This is a route for those who enjoy adventure — people who don’t mind the occasional challenge, uneven surfaces, and climbs along the way. If you're looking for a highly predictable, fast-moving route where daily mileage is king and everything runs perfectly smooth, EuroVelo might be a better fit. This one offers a different kind of experience.
There are cafés and small towns along the way — not constant, but enough for a self-supported trip.
You can find the full route on my Komoot profile here:
https://www.komoot.com/user/3277902650255/routes
I run Gravel Travel Portugal, a gravel bike rental service based in Setúbal — right at the start of this route. I offer fully equipped gravel bikes (steel frame, tubeless tires) and bikepacking gear for short escapes or multi-day adventures.
Whether you're dreaming of a quick break on the Portuguese coast — just a few days with a cheap flight to Lisbon and minimal baggage — or planning a long-awaited cycling holiday, I’d be happy to help.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or are thinking about riding in this region!
by GravelTravelPT