Algarve Tour 2023: The Thrilling Climb at Alto do Malhão Decides the Champion

A Semi Time Trial to Crown the Champion

A semi time trial culminating at Alto do Malhão will determine the winner of the 51st Algarve Tour, with cyclists tackling a challenging route from Wednesday to Sunday. This year’s edition introduces bold new features, including a novel ascent to Fóia.

Innovative Route Design

The Algarve Tour showcases an innovative layout, repeating the starting and finishing locations from previous years while introducing a unique time trial for the fifth and final stage, finishing at the Alto do Malhão. This stage is set to be the highlight of the competition.

Challenging Climbs Ahead

Cyclists will cover 19.6 kilometers from Salir to the highest point in Loulé, where a Category 2 mountain count will be established. The initial 17 kilometers are flat, but competitors will need to switch to climbing bikes at the foot of Malhão, facing a 2,600-meter climb with an average gradient of 9.2%.

Exciting Stages to Watch

• Stage 1: Kicks off in Portimão and covers 192.2 kilometers to Lagos, likely ending in a sprint finish on Avenida dos Descobrimentos.
• Stage 2: Begins in Lagoa and stretches 177.6 kilometers to the summit of Fóia, featuring a challenging final climb from the north face with a 10% average gradient.
• Stage 3: Offers opportunities for sprinters, running 183.5 kilometers from Vila Real de Santo António to Tavira.
• Stage 4: A treacherous 175.2-kilometer route from Albufeira to Faro includes three mountain counts in the last 53 kilometers, catering to both sprinters and classic specialists.

Total Distance and Elevation

By the end of the five stages, competitors will have completed 748.1 kilometers with a total ascent of 11,795 meters, making it an ideal course for climbers like Primoz Roglic and Jonas Vingegaard, along with João Almeida from UAE Emirates.