The organizers of the Volta ao Algarve (February 18-22) have confirmed a course that will have a bit for everyone. With a time trial and the traditional summit finish on the Alto do Malhao, the winner will be a complete rider.

The first and last stage will suit the sprinters. The favorites for the final victory will have their first test on the second day, with a small climb (4.6 km/7.6%) just six kilometers from the finish.

The time trial comes on the third day of the race and will be held over 18.2km in flat terrain. The penultimate stage is the queen stage and will include the traditional summit finish on the Alto do Malhao (2.6 km/9.6%) which will be passed twice.

Route: 
Stage 1: Lagos - Albufeira, 168km 
Stage 2: Lagoon - Monchique, 192km 
Stage 3: Vila do Bispo - Cape St. Vincent, 18.2km ITT
Stage 4: Tavira - Malhão, 212km 
Stage 5: Almodovar - Vilamoura, 178km

Sky, Ettix-Quick Step, Cannondale-Garmin, Lotto-Soudal, Katusha, Astana and Caja Rural-Seguros RGA have all received invitations and will be joined by several Portuguese continental teams.

In 2014, Michal Kwiatkowski beat Alberto Contador and Rui Costa; Tony Martin won in 2013 and 2011; Richie Porte took the victory in 2012 and Contador was the best in 2009 and 2010.