This trip combines a great variety of terrains, villages, towns and cities with fantastic accommodation, equipment and food in one of the unexplored gems of southern Europe.
Do you like gravel or MTB bike riding? Then this is the trip for you. Do you only like road bike riding? This isn’t the trip for you.
While there are sections on smooth backroads and bike paths, there are many sections on cobblestones, single track, forest trails, lumpy, bumpy and rocky paths. Some of these trails will be too steep or too rocky to ride and you will need to push your bike up these sections. There will also be times (mostly on day 1), where you will need to carry your bike up and down the stairs of flyovers of railway line crossings. There will also be times where the gps/Camino trail takes you down one way streets. There will also be a few times when the gps track differs from the Camino trail markers - we defaulted to following the Camino trail markers.
The challenge is worth it. Experiencing different scenery, visiting interesting towns, meeting walkers (we didn’t meet any other riders).
Cycle Portugal's coastline from the Alentejo to the Algarve to discover unspoilt beaches and impressive coastal towns. A cycle trip to discover the unspoilt beaches of the western Algarve and Alentejo Atlantic coast. As you pedal from the charming town of Odeceixe on the river Seixe, right on the border between Alentejo and the Algarve, you will appreciate that there is so much more to this special pocket of Portugal. In the hinterland, pass through extensive woods, authentic villages surrounded by kitchen gardens and quiet roads perfect for cyclists of all ages. On the coast swim at wide open beaches, cycle past coastal scenes of rolling dunes and dramatic cliffs and feast on fresh seafood. In the evening stay in charming accommodation with swimming pools to cool down in after a day of cycling. The relaxed pace of the days will ensure you truly have a holiday while exploring a fascinating area at handlebar level.
This trip was fantastic.
The itinerary was described accurately. All hotels were very well appointed, clean and most were in beautiful locations.
The guide was excellent and very knowledgeable. We had picknick lunches daily en route.
The group was great, a very diverse group from different countries with lots of humour and stories to share.
We certainly recommend this trip and remember it fondly!
Your holiday starts in Porto, where shuttered townhouses tumble downhill to colourful rabelo sailing boats cruising the Douro River and passing world-famous wine cellars. From here, you'll beach and bay hop south to your luxury beachfront hotel in Furadouro, before heading via the Aveiro Lagoon, home to pink flamingo and colourful birdlife, to Aveiro for two nights in a waterside mansion. Known as 'Portugal's Venice', this is where colourful moliceiro boats cruise along canals beneath tall palm trees, while alleyways are filled with tempting restaurants. Your final cycling stretch takes you back to the ocean to high sand dunes, meandering through pine and acacia forest, to Praia de Mira.
Please note: Cycling helmets are a legal requirement in Portugal for anyone using an e-bike.
Excellent trip with fantastic guide. Itinerary was good and the hotels of a good standard. Some beautiful scenery and interesting places to visit. The picnics organised by the minibus driver were a highlight of the day. An excellent trip and highly recommended.
You begin in UNESCO-recognised Porto, a beautiful mix of winding, medieval streets, impressive architecture and the serene Douro River, packed with brightly coloured rabelo sailing boats - it's also home to some world-famous wine cellars. From here you'll head south, past sandy bays and beaches, to your luxury hotel in Furadouro right on the beachfront, before heading via the Aveiro Lagoon, to 'Portugal's Venice', Aveiro. Here, the latticework canals are overlooked by grand buildings and inviting restaurants, while pretty moliceiro boats sail leisurely along the water. Returning to the ocean you'll pass high sand dunes and fragrant pine and acacia forest, on your way to Praia de Mira, before heading inland to the Spa town of Curia in the Bairrada wine region, the home of Portugal's best Champagne-style wine - be sure to stop for a tasting! From Curia your final stretch takes you to Coimbra, Portugal's former capital and now a cosmopolitan university city. Explore its charming cobbled alleyways, bustling markets and wonderful architecture such as the 16th century aqueduct and the university's sublime Baroque library, perhaps rounding off with a traditional fado evening in one of the local bars.
Embark on an unforgettable cycling journey starting from the historic city of Coimbra, meandering southward along Portugal's enchanting Silver Coast, and concluding in the medieval town of Obidos. From there, your adventure continues to the lively capital of Lisbon, where three nights are included for you to soak up the city's ancient allure.
Begin your exploration in Coimbra, home to the UNESCO-listed University, renowned for its breathtaking architecture and rich history. Stroll through its cobblestone streets and indulge in a dinner accompanied by a traditional fado show on the second night, immersing yourself in the city's vibrant ambiance. Cycling alongside the Atlantic, you'll traverse picturesque landscapes and charming villages, including the quaint fishing village of Nazare, where time seems to stand still amidst crashing waves and colourful boats. Discover hidden beaches, rugged cliffs, and awe-inspiring viewpoints that showcase Portugal's stunning coastline.
Venture inland to explore the walled town of Obidos, with its maze of streets and white houses, perfect for leisurely strolls. Don't miss the chance to sample the famous Ginjinha de Obidos, a sour brandy drink often served in small chocolate cups.
Conclude your adventure by travelling by train (not included) to Lisbon, where old-world charm blends seamlessly with modern sophistication. Wander through the winding streets of Alfama, admire the majestic beauty of the Belem Tower, and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant cultural scene, from bustling markets to world-class museums. While in Lisbon, take the opportunity to visit nearby Sintra, the former summer retreat of Portuguese nobility, or Cascais, known for its beautiful promenade and historic mansions. Please note: Cycling helmets are a legal requirement in Portugal for anyone using an e-bike.
The Minho and Porto biking holiday will give you an almost surrealistic “change of scenery” experience. Starting high in the mountains area, you will literally cycle down to the Atlantic Ocean stretching before you as far as you can see. This land is also blessed by the Minho, Lima and Douro rivers, each of which will accompany you at one stage or another of your ride.
This is a proud land, proud of its maritime history and of the remains of the fortifications that helped keep the Spanish well within their borders. It is the land of fine mountain cuisine and, along the cost, a wealth of fish and seafood dishes, best enjoyed with a glass of Vinho Verde. Best of all, it is a biking journey that will put you in touch with some of the nicest Europeans.
Do take every opportunity to meet the local inhabitants: fishermen and their wives, farmers, the kind lady at the local shop; listen to the stories of the owners of your accommodations. Cycle across the ancient Roman bridge at Ponte de Lima, famous for its beauty and its importance to medieval pilgrims as they made their way from Porto to Santiago de Compostela. Enjoy biking through the North of Portugal at its most authentic.
Prepare to travel the Atlantic Coast from Porto to Santiago de Compostela, in Spain. Experience ocean landscapes and fishing ports that supply some of Europe's finest seafoods. Recently approved by the Cathedral of Santiago as an official Camino de Santiago, although it might be the oldest of all pilgrimage routes to the sanctuary where, according to legend, the remains of St James lie at rest. The route takes in seaside villages, sandy beaches, estuaries, country lanes, vineyards and historic towns. Expect to savour seafood menus, fine wines and charming accommodation, including Spain's Paradores - luxury hotels in castles, stately homes and historic sites, renowned for their excellent hospitality and traditional cuisine. The Camino's history of devotion inspires awe, whether religious or not. As you approach Santiago de Compostela, you'll feel the excitement of entering one of the great holy cities of Christianity, following a path forged by centuries of faith and perseverance.
For more detailed information, please take a look at our itinerary.
