Algarve Bike Challenge

The UCI Gran Fondo World Series Coimbra Region is Portugal’s most international mass-participation cycling weekend, and the only Iberian qualifier on the UCI Gran Fondo calendar. Across two days, riders 19+ tackle a 10:00 Individual Time Trial in Coimbra (Sat, 28 Feb 2026) and the Granfondo/Mediofondo mass start in Montemor-o-Velho (Sun, 1 Mar 2026, 09:00). Courses are fully timed, with age-group results by gender under UCI “Cycling for All” rules. The ITT rolls along the Mondego with medium difficulty, while Sunday’s routes cut through castle vistas, rice fields and river plains. Licensed and non-licensed cyclists are welcome (one-day license available), but note TT bikes are not allowed in Granfondo/Mediofondo. Top finishers by age group earn qualification rights for the 2026 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships (Niseko, Japan), making this a weekend that blends performance, scenery, and a real shot at Worlds.

The Geotour Aldeias do Xisto 2026 is a mountain bike endurance event held over three days on February 20-22, 2026, in Fundão, Castelo Branco, Portugal. The race features an optional prologue of approximately 5-6 km and two main stages with distances of 70-80 km and 60-75 km, respectively, with significant elevation gains.

The event is open to all athletes aged 18 and over, federated or non-federated, with categories for solo riders (Elite, Masters, Veterans, both male and female) and a category for pairs. eBikes are allowed but do not receive classification. The race is navigated by GPS tracks provided by the organization.

The course traverses rural roads and trails through the scenic regions of Fundão, Covilhã, and Castelo Branco, offering a challenging and autonomous endurance experience. The event atmosphere combines competitive spirit with a respect for nature and local communities, including support such as medical teams, refreshments, and post-stage facilities.

The Passeio BTT Pelos Trilhos da Raia is a guided mountain bike ride event set to take place on March 8, 2026, in Vila Verde de Ficalho, Beja. The event features a single 40 km route designed for cyclists to explore the scenic trails of the Raia region in a non-competitive format.

This event is open to all participants aged 16 and over, emphasizing sport promotion, social interaction, and discovery of the local landscape. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, with a focus on enjoyment rather than competition, making it ideal for cyclists of varied experience levels.

Unique elements include a guided route through the beautiful Beja district trails, strategic aid stations along the way, and a convivial lunch gathering after the ride, fostering a communal and festive spirit among participants.

The 4th Resistência BTT Trilhos da Lagoa de Óbidos is a mountain bike endurance race scheduled for March 8, 2026, in Óbidos, Portugal. This event offers a challenging and scenic ride along the trails surrounding the beautiful Óbidos Lagoon, making it a must for mountain biking enthusiasts.

The race is open to all participants, providing an inclusive atmosphere for amateurs and experienced riders alike. The unique landscape of lagoon trails and natural surroundings creates an inspiring setting that sets this event apart from other mountain bike competitions.

With a festive and community-oriented vibe, the event also encourages team participation and camaraderie among cyclists, enhancing the overall experience beyond just the competition.