Great trip! Well organised, great hotels and evening meals. Bikes were in excellent condition. Communication with company excellent. Only thing we weren’t so keen on was the navigation app so resorted to google maps. Generally really pleased.
Set off on a six-day Premium hiking adventure through Madeira’s dramatic coastlines, volcanic landscapes and lush forests. Hike the 25 Fontes trail and visit Risco Waterfall, relax in natural volcanic rock pools at Porto Moniz, take in the sweeping ocean views on your hike to Vereda da Ponta de Sao Lourenco and hike to the highest point on the island on the Vereda do Pico do Ruivo. Along the way, visit small mountain villages, learn about the region’s local culture and indulge in Madeira’s most famous local produce, wine and rum. With its mild climate and diverse terrain, Madeira offers the perfect escape and hiking destination all year round.
This was my first Exodus trip and I loved everything about it. I was travelling solo which I had never done before. I was full of trepidation but I need not have worried. The trip far exceeded my expectations. The cycling is tough with plenty of hills to climb. However the group were lovely. I had so much fun, there was plenty of banter all week.
Overall, a great adventure. Luggage transfer was flawless. Breakfast was good as well. Accommodation provided was fine with the only issue being wet gear and no service to clean or dry. Outside facilities were limited and often involved at least a few hours waiting to use the washer/dryer. Not the best when you have been soaked for days. Porto bike rental was outstanding. Took the time to show me the use of all aspects of the e-bike as I had never used one for my training for the Camino. Portuguese marking of the route needs to be upgraded; substandard and easy to get off track. I believe the Littoral route is easy for walkers to follow and wooden platforms and paths are well designed for walkers. I had to carry my bike up stairs. The Coastal route needs signage in a big way. Google maps is helpful, but often takes a route that is not marked or may take you in a meandering way. Washed out areas and a tree or two that fell on the route were minor obstacles. Galicia, Spain was much better marked by the famous clamshell. The ferry from Portugal to Spain is not working, so some travellers were somewhat panicked as booking online was going nowhere. This has nothing to do with them but the water taxi in a speedboat in the fog to a vacant beach with no one around is a memory I will always remember! Roads and paths into Santiago well laid out and marked. The directions to the office for certification were spot on. The Vigo to Pontevedra section is challenging; some sections you have to walk your bike up as the rocks are too big to navigate and washed out the gravel and dirt. Not a problem but requires significant effort. I am 69 and fit and enjoyed the social aspect of chatting with those along the way.
Bikes pick up was excellent. Biclas and Triclas made sure we had bikes that fitted us and all necessary equipment was provided. Did not have any issues with them.
Routes provided were spot on with no issues with navigation. Bear in mind that some parts of the route could not be traversed by bikes so some self made detours are required or bike pushing done. This added to the experience.
Luggage transportation was flawless with only a minor delay in one leg due to us being too quick.
Accommodations were very good with hot showers and comfortable beds. Only one hotel did not have adequate air conditioning but it was in an isolated country area and staff were fantastic in trying their best to make it better.
Breakfasts could have started a little earlier for Camiño travelers as we tried to beat the hottest part of the day.
Dinners were good and we never went to sleep hungry.
Overall an excellent experience.
A comprehensive ride along the full length of the Portuguese Camino from Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. The Portuguese Road, or Caminho Portugués, is considered by many as the most spiritually connected pilgrimage route. Following the path St James' body took to its resting place at the site of Santiago de Compostela in Spain, the quieter Portuguese path offers a wealth of history and delightful landscapes to discover. While the Caminho Portugués is traditionally walked by pilgrims, it is now possible to enjoy the route by bike. Starting in the historic capital city of Lisbon you will cycle through countryside towns to the university town of Coimbra. Continue on to the lively city of Porto, set on the banks of the Douro River and famous for its port wine production, the cycle through small hamlets, past eucalyptus and pine woods, over ancient bridges and through larger market towns dating back to Roman times. You will cross the border in to Spain and finally cycle into the fabled town of Santiago de Compostela.
Lisbon, Santiago De Compostela, Arcos, Ponte De Lima, Tui, Pontevedra, Padrón, Vila Franca De Xira, Tomar, Alvorge, Coimbra, Agueda, Olveira De Azemeis, Porto
Discover an unforgettable biking expedition along the Camino de Santiago, starting from Porto. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes of northern Spain and Portugal. This thrilling adventure offers picturesque routes, charming local villages, and historic landmarks. Experience the unique blend of physical challenge and spiritual journey as you pedal through enchanting terrains, savoring authentic cuisine and vibrant local traditions. Ideal for adventure seekers and history enthusiasts alike, this journey promises a rewarding and exhilarating experience.
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.
