April in the Algarve: Unmissable Events to Reach by Motorcycle

April arrives with longer days, mild temperatures, and roads that beg to be ridden on a motorcycle. If there's one way to truly experience the Algarve, it's on two wheels, exploring every curve, every scenic road, and every vibrant destination. And this month, there are two events that not only justify the trip but make the journey an essential part of the experience: the Smuggling Festival in Alcoutim and the Flower Torch Festival in São Brás de Alportel.

Smuggling Festival – April 4 to 6

Located on the banks of the Guadiana River, Alcoutim brings its smuggling history to life with a unique event. For three days, the town transforms into a stage for historical reenactments, crafts, street entertainment, and, of course, great food and drink. But the main highlight is the temporary floating bridge that connects Alcoutim to Sanlúcar de Guadiana on the other side of the river, allowing people to cross from one country to another on foot—just as smugglers once did, but now without haste or fear.

However, for true motorcycle enthusiasts, the party starts long before arriving. The best way to head to Alcoutim is via the N124, a winding road that carves through the Algarve’s landscape with delightful curves and breathtaking scenery. From the green of the hills to the blue of the distant river, this route offers an engaging and enjoyable ride, ideal for those who appreciate a dynamic and varied journey. And after the festival, there’s nothing better than continuing the ride to explore more of the region’s riverside beauty, with a descent along the M507 parallel to the Guadiana River.

Flower Torch Festival – April 20

In the heart of the Serra do Caldeirão, São Brás de Alportel hosts one of the most beautiful Easter celebrations in the Algarve. On Easter Sunday, the town’s streets are covered with carpets of natural flowers, creating a spectacle of color and tradition. The procession of men carrying flower-adorned torches adds the final touch to a festival full of symbolism and emotion.

Reaching São Brás by motorcycle is an experience not to be missed by any road enthusiast. The legendary N2 crosses the mountains, offering a route that blends panoramic straights with gentle curves, always accompanied by the rolling landscape of the Serra. But there are other equally exciting options: small secondary roads cutting through hills and valleys, providing that unique sense of discovery. Regardless of the path chosen, every kilometer ridden to São Brás is a celebration of the joy of motorcycling.

Honey, Cheese, and Bread Fair - April 25 to 27

The 25th Honey, Cheese, and Bread Fair in Mértola celebrates the best of Alentejo’s traditions. During the event, local producers showcase their gastronomic treasures: pure honey, artisanal cheeses, and slow-fermented Alentejo bread—symbols of a craftsmanship passed down through generations. The fair is an invitation to the senses, offering not just flavors but a journey into the region’s authenticity, where aromas and tastes tell stories of land and tradition.

For motorcycle enthusiasts, this fair is more than just a destination—it’s the perfect excuse for an unforgettable ride. Setting off early in the morning, weaving through the winding roads of the Serra do Caldeirão, and feeling the bike hug the gentle curves leading to Mértola turns the journey itself into an experience. The thrill of the road, the endless rolling hills, and the scent of rockrose in the air make the ride as memorable as the fair itself.

Upon arriving in Mértola, the fusion of gastronomy with the medieval charm of the town makes every visitor feel part of history. Between a glass of Alentejo wine and a slice of cured cheese, time slows down, just like the bike now resting in the sun. The 25th Honey, Cheese, and Bread Fair is not just a gastronomic event—it’s a destination where the road and tradition meet, offering an experience that begins on the asphalt and ends at the table.

Two Wheels, An Unforgettable Experience

The Algarve in April is not just a destination—it’s an invitation to explore. Between authentic festivals and roads designed for enjoyment, every curve promises adventure. The motorcycle is not just a means of transport—it’s the best way to feel every kilometer, every scent of the Serra, every breath of wind from the Guadiana.

When you rent with Soulful Bikes, we help you find the perfect route to the event along the most thrilling roads. April in the Algarve awaits you!