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.