Cutting straight through the heart of the central Algarve. The fifth stage leaves Faro, heading west along rolling roads situated just inland from the coast. This line neatly bypasses the dense holiday traffic of the shoreline resorts. The track twists through the characteristic Barrocal hills, lined with old olive, carob, and almond trees.
Passing quiet rural hamlets and small towns like Guia and Alcantarilha, the route eventually tracks closer to the water near Lagoa. The finale arrives as you cross the wide Arade River over the old bridge, rolling directly into the maritime hub of Portimão. A compact, punchy day shaped by constant rollers.