ALGARVE, PORTUGAL
Alte is a small rural village in the
Algarve hinterland where AQR base
themselves during March and April.
During clear days there are views
across the endless orange groves
down to the ocean. Alte is
surrounded by countryside where
there are a maze of walking and
mountain bike trails. There are small
villages hidden within the trees with
white washed houses and cobbled
streets. The area is nestled in the foot
hills of the Serra do Caldeirão which
protects it from the northern winds.
The area is also visited by tourists for
the local springs, waterfalls and cafes
serving local home made delicacies
such as Agua Mel.
The Algarve coastline is only 30 minutes away where you can find beaches suitable for surfing or perhaps enjoy the shopping and restaurants at one of the many beach resorts such as
Albufeira or Portimao.
WHY AQR HOLIDAYS CHOSE ALGARVE, PORTUGAL
Ian & Kate initially met in Portugal where Ian was working as a mountain bike guide. Five years after AQR Holidays had been established Kate decided winters were no longer appropriate for an Australian living in the mountains and wanted to escape the snow in the Pyrenees and get back on the bike as soon as possible. Kate & Ian love Portugal during March when temperatures are much warmer than the rest of Europe and one can enjoy the road cycling and mountain biking without wearing thermals. Kate & Ian also discovered that the natural trails and idyllic charm of this rural area have not been spoilt by tourism or urban development. The friendly locals always make Kate & Ian feel very welcome and it has become their annual winter escape that AQR love to share with their guests.