Follow the Blue Line: Cycling the Algarve

Came across this book while looking at the number of guides for touring the Algarve and it was a good purchase. The author’s clear love of Portugal shone through and at times you could almost forget about him and his friends being on a 100+ mile cycling holiday; makes the idea of a cycling holiday abroad so appealing. Better planning would be called for but a lack of it on the author’s part added a humorous dimension to the book making the read enjoyable. My wife and I have been thinking about backpacking or cycling in Europe and with several friends telling us how beautiful the Algarve is, reading this book just affirms their feelings. Cycling the Ecovia do Litoral is now on our shortlist for 2019; I think the pace will suit us down to the ground.

Just bought the book and I read it on a couple of long Tube rides in a very wet and miserable London.12 couples of differing cycling abilities and appetite are planning to do the Ecovia and this book came recommended by a blogger who covers the route as a source.The book is written by a guy who is passionate about this part of Portugal and the Joys Of Cycling. And honest.It is not about a hardcore transcontinental expedition but the sort of thing that can be done by a bunch of people who want to have a bit of fun in the sun.Even if you do not do the ride , the book will make you want to do the Ecovia and put a smile on your face.

As a “mamil” too and a guy who loves a beer and cycling, I thought I would purchase this book and read all the about the tales of middle aged men cycling in the Algarve. It’s an easy read with some funny bits a long the way. However the book does jump back and fore between a previous cycle and the most recent. Overall a light hearted story of 40year olds cycling abroad.

A light, easy and amusing read as Johns plans start to unravel from the "get go" with an unfortunately problem with his brothers passport. This is almost a book on how not to plan a ride across the southern coast of Portugal but, with the help of strangers, proves that you can achieve your goal despite the best efforts of the local councils and their maintenance of the Blue Line.Johns love of the Algarve shines through as does his love of doing these cycle rides as he shares his later adventures with the Portugal Pie Eaters - an elite band of mamils if ever there was!!

Being a middle aged Dad, who doesn't suit Lycra but loves cycling, a beer with friends and travelling, this book was right on the money. John captures the unique beauty of the Algarve with lots of laugh out loud moments due to the antics of him and his friends as they navigate their way along the blue line. I really felt like i was there with them and will definitely put cycling the Algarve on my list of things to do! John brilliantly describes the quaint villages to the bigger towns on his travels whilst highlighting some great cafes, bars and things to do. I look forward to reading more from this author as he navigates the globe on his bicycle !