New coastal paths unveiled in Vila do Bispo
Cyclists and hikers looking to explore the Algarve’s stunning western coast have new paths to explore.
Vila do Bispo celebrated the grand opening of its Southwest Coastal Ecovia and Cycle Path (Ecovia e Ciclovia do Litoral Sudoeste) on Saturday (January 18).
The event, led by mayor Rute Silva, was attended by key figures such as José Apolinário, head of the regional development commission (CCDR Algarve), and José Caetano, president of the Portuguese Bicycle Tourism Federation. Local officials, community leaders, and residents also joined the celebration.
This new network of paths features 31.5 kilometres of cycling and walking paths divided into two sections. The first is a 26-kilometre path connecting Sagres to Aljezur, while the second is a shorter 5.5-kilometre cycling path linking the Quatro Estradas roundabout in Sagres to Cape Saint Vincent, Portugal’s and mainland Europe’s southwesternmost point. Both paths were designed to take advantage of low-traffic roads with breathtaking views, making them enjoyable for locals and visitors alike, although the longer route was designed mainly for longer journeys, while the shorter path boasts several points of interest along the way.
Representing an investment of €1.77 million, the project was 70% funded by European programs such as CRESC ALGARVE 2020 and ALGARVE 2030, as well as the national tourism board Turismo de Portugal. The launch ceremony was held as part of the town’s Saint Vincent’s Day festivities.
The Ecovia also links to the EuroVelo network, a system of long-distance cycling routes spanning 70,000 kilometres across Europe. In the Algarve, there are three main regional paths: Litoral Sul, Costa Vicentina and Guadiana. These paths connect urban areas, making them ideal for commuting, sightseeing, or a leisurely bike ride.
So far, 74 kilometres of the planned 250 kilometres in the Algarve have been completed, with more to come under the ALGARVE 2030 program. Vila do Bispo has already finished 24 kilometres of its network, while Aljezur is working on its 60 kilometres.
