May is one of the best months of the year to hit the road

The heat hasn’t kicked in yet, the days are long, and there’s something in the air calling you to explore. If you love riding and are looking for authentic cultural events, May brings several gems scattered between the Algarve and Alentejo.

Here are 4 perfect suggestions for those who love combining culture with pleasure-filled roads:

🧭 Discoveries Festival — Lagos

📅 April 30 to May 4

🌐 festivaldosdescobrimentos.pt

Lagos returns to the 15th century to celebrate the golden age of the Portuguese Discoveries. For five days, the streets fill with historical reenactments, music, markets and street performances. A colourful, vibrant journey back to the time of the great explorers.

📍 How to get there (and enjoy the ride):

Avoid the busy N125. Ride up through Monchique and pass through Marmelete before descending into Lagos via scenic backroads — fewer cars, more curves and amazing views.

🥾 Hiking Festival — Alcoutim

📅 May 16 to 18

Inland Algarve, by the Guadiana River, Alcoutim hosts a different kind of festival — one dedicated to hiking, nature and the quiet rhythm of the mountains. For three days, guided walks take you through wild trails, remote villages and riverside beauty.

📍 How to get there:

From São Bartolomeu de Messines, follow the N124 through Alte, then head to Ameixial and Cachopo — winding roads with technical curves and very little traffic.

🌙 Islamic Festival — Mértola

📅 May 20 to 25

🌐 festivalislamicodemertola.com

One of Portugal’s most unique festivals. Mértola becomes a southern souk celebrating Islamic heritage with music, dance, crafts, exotic flavours and talks. The village, already magical, becomes even more special during this week.

📍 How to get there:

From Almodôvar, take the N267 and then the N123. A gorgeous route with rolling hills, open landscapes and peaceful scenery — ideal for relaxed cruising.

🌾 Espiga Festival — Salir

📅 May 29

Held on Ascension Thursday, this traditional festival celebrates spring and rural heritage. In Salir, the village comes alive with parades, folk groups and local festivities. A colourful and deeply rooted celebration.

📍 How to get there:

Ride up from Loulé through Querença and continue on rural roads to Alte. Quiet backroads through the Algarve countryside — perfect for stopping, breathing and enjoying.

🏍️ May invites you to leave the routine — and the main road

These events are more than just destinations — they’re excuses for unforgettable rides. Take the bike, follow the scenic routes and let yourself be surprised by the best the south of Portugal has to offer. In May, it’s not just the countryside that blooms — it’s the spirit of adventure too.