Having postponed the September ride for a while, due to the exceptionally high temperatures, on the new date the thermometers on the bikes were still showing close to 40c as we got near to the lunch venue, at Restaurant Bela Vista in Odeleite.
Having started the ride from São Brás do Alportel, riding on the twisty roads climbing up into the hills above Tavira that offered great views towards the coast and the Spanish border. 
The first group was led by Hans Veninga with Tus Gentes at the back of the group, on the unmistakable big yellow BMW sidecar.
The second group was led by David Shirley and Peter Kenyon, assisted by Frank Banha. David and Peter, took one or two wrong turns, apparently appreciated by the following riders who said they had seen and enjoyed parts of the Algarve they had never seen before!!
Everyone was pleased to see the small cafe at Pinto and stop for liquid refreshment, before continuing on to the viewpoint overlooking the barragem just before arrival at the restaurant, which thankfully had air conditioning and cold drinks waiting for us with lunch.
Photos by Frank Banha & David Shirley
Next group ride October 7th - Group Ride Central Algarve.
Meeting in Boliqueime.
Details on the website for members to sign up now - www.algarveseniorbikers.com
