Your Next Adventure
Your Next Adventure
Portugal - Beaches, Castles & History Bike Tour
DURATION
10 Day(s)
DAILY BIKING
23 to 50 miles
TRIP DIFFICULTY
3-Intermediate
STARTING FROM
$3995
SINGLES ADD FROM
$1,000
Trip Overview
On our first Portugal bike tour, you enjoy spectacular beachside cycling on roads and bike trails as you travel through several coastal parks. Enjoy expert-guided walking tours of the fascinating city of Lisbon and the Roman ruins of Évora. Marvel at the ancient castles, fishing villages, coastal birds — and the blend of several architectural styles and cultures that make this area unique. From ancient times, Celts, Romans, Visigoths, Berbers, Arabs, Spanish and others had an influence on Portugal's history.
Today, the modern Portuguese culture enfolds many influences to create a fascinating country to visit. Enjoy delicious seafood, sample port wines and try the special local pastries, including the famous custard tarts called pastéis de nata. Sip a coffee or glass of wine by the sea and relax during or after great rides. And thrill at the variety of architectural and historic treasures.
Stay in marvelous inns and historic buildings turned into luxurious hotels. Plus, see the inviting coves and beaches along this beautiful coastline.
Itinerary
From start to finish, check out the route.
DAY 1 - Arrival Day
Arrive in Lisbon | Hotel PortoBay Liberdade (for May only; fall hotel TBD)
Meet your leaders a 3 p.m. at our hotel in Lisbon for a guided walk of this magical city of old-world charm and cosmopolitan culture. Welcome dinner is together.
Meet your leaders a 3 p.m. at our hotel in Lisbon for a guided walk of this magical city of old-world charm and cosmopolitan culture. Welcome dinner is together.
DAY 2 - Sightseeing in Lisbon
Walking Tour | Hotel Albergaria do Calvario
There’s time for morning sightseeing in Lisbon. After lunch, we’ll transfer to Evora, tonight’s destination. With our guide, we’ll discover the timeless city of Evora, UNESCO Site, steeped in Roman and medieval heritage. The city’s golden age came in the 1400s when Portugal’s kings chose it for their home, and Evora’s streets still recall that influx of nobility 500 years ago.
We’ll fit and test our bikes this afternoon before dinner together.
There’s time for morning sightseeing in Lisbon. After lunch, we’ll transfer to Evora, tonight’s destination. With our guide, we’ll discover the timeless city of Evora, UNESCO Site, steeped in Roman and medieval heritage. The city’s golden age came in the 1400s when Portugal’s kings chose it for their home, and Evora’s streets still recall that influx of nobility 500 years ago.
We’ll fit and test our bikes this afternoon before dinner together.
DAY 3 - Rolling hills and the hidden trails
Distance: 42 miles | Terrain: Easier | Alcacer | Companhia Agrícola da Barrosinha
The roads and trails of the Alentejo provide a great atmosphere for bike tours. Today we reach the charming village of Alcacer do Sal. Have a look at the historical boats along the Sado River and the castle above the town. It was a Moorish citadel before the Christians re-conquered the area.
We’ll enjoy the traditional dinner tonight. Don’t miss a passeggiata tonight after dinner!
The roads and trails of the Alentejo provide a great atmosphere for bike tours. Today we reach the charming village of Alcacer do Sal. Have a look at the historical boats along the Sado River and the castle above the town. It was a Moorish citadel before the Christians re-conquered the area.
We’ll enjoy the traditional dinner tonight. Don’t miss a passeggiata tonight after dinner!
DAY 4 - Coastal village of Sines
Distance: 45 to 50 miles | Terrain: Easier to Intermediate | Sines | Casa do Medico San Rafael
The 15th-century Castle of Sines area has seen pre-historic residents, pirates and medieval battles. A gentle sea breeze will be your first indicator that you are getting close to the beach. The coast, which is physically rugged (the Sines Cape) is separated into two differentiated areas: a sandy northern section, and a rocky southern area of cliffs.
Sines is the largest and the first constructed of Portugal and the birthplace of Vasco da Gama. Vasco da Gama earned his place in history during his voyage to India between 1497 and 1499, becoming the first European to get to India by sea, expanding the Portuguese Empire, opening up world trade and ushering in the colonial era. The Castle of Sines was built to defend the fleet and town against enemy navies and pirates. The hill it sits on has been settled since the Palaeolithic era, but the castle is "only" from the 15th-century. That’s the reason the building is quite compact, as the streets around it had long been laid out when it was built, and it had to adapt to that shape.
The 15th-century Castle of Sines area has seen pre-historic residents, pirates and medieval battles. A gentle sea breeze will be your first indicator that you are getting close to the beach. The coast, which is physically rugged (the Sines Cape) is separated into two differentiated areas: a sandy northern section, and a rocky southern area of cliffs.
Sines is the largest and the first constructed of Portugal and the birthplace of Vasco da Gama. Vasco da Gama earned his place in history during his voyage to India between 1497 and 1499, becoming the first European to get to India by sea, expanding the Portuguese Empire, opening up world trade and ushering in the colonial era. The Castle of Sines was built to defend the fleet and town against enemy navies and pirates. The hill it sits on has been settled since the Palaeolithic era, but the castle is "only" from the 15th-century. That’s the reason the building is quite compact, as the streets around it had long been laid out when it was built, and it had to adapt to that shape.
DAY 5 - Coastal roads to Milfontes
Distance: 23 miles | Terrain: Intermediate | Milfontes | Quinta Do Moinho De Vento
We reach Milfontes today riding along coastal roads, the sea on your side with a gentle breeze. Along the ride, you can enjoy the tiny village of Porto das Barcas, a nice spot for almoço, lunch. Once in town, there is the opportunity to relax, swim, have a peaceful beachfront walk or just to have a drink facing the sea. Your choice! You’ll be curious to find out more about this unique village where the river meets the sea.
We reach Milfontes today riding along coastal roads, the sea on your side with a gentle breeze. Along the ride, you can enjoy the tiny village of Porto das Barcas, a nice spot for almoço, lunch. Once in town, there is the opportunity to relax, swim, have a peaceful beachfront walk or just to have a drink facing the sea. Your choice! You’ll be curious to find out more about this unique village where the river meets the sea.
DAY 6 - Rota Vicentina and legendary Castle of Aljezur
Distance: 42 miles | Terrain: Advanced | Aljexur | Vicentina Hotel
We are riding alongside the Rota Vicentina, one of the best walking trails in Europe. A must-do in Aljezur is climbing to the castle to enjoy the surrounding views. From the top of the legendary Castle of Aljezur, one of seven that are represented on the flag of Portugal, enjoy the view of the fertile lowlands, where the famous and incomparable sweet potatoes of Aljezur are grown. The creeks wind along these fields with magnificent galleries of poplars, alders, ash trees, willows, and tamarisks.
We are riding alongside the Rota Vicentina, one of the best walking trails in Europe. A must-do in Aljezur is climbing to the castle to enjoy the surrounding views. From the top of the legendary Castle of Aljezur, one of seven that are represented on the flag of Portugal, enjoy the view of the fertile lowlands, where the famous and incomparable sweet potatoes of Aljezur are grown. The creeks wind along these fields with magnificent galleries of poplars, alders, ash trees, willows, and tamarisks.
DAY 7 - Rugged limestone cliffs and dunes
Distance: 22 or 34 miles | Terrain: Intermediate with Advanced option | Sagres | Pousada do Sagres
We continue along the coast for a short ride today that allows us to get plenty of time for a walk on the beach. Along the ride don’t miss a stop at Carrapateira village with its rugged limestone cliffs and extensive sand dunes. An extra ride takes you to Farol do Cabo de Sao Vicente - the famous "end of the world," when the world was thought to be flat. This is Europe’s most south-western point. Have a look at the fortress and the lighthouse. From there, it's just a few kilometers to the town of Sagres, today’s destination. Give yourself into poolside relaxation at your historic Pousada hotel, once a 16th-century convent.
We continue along the coast for a short ride today that allows us to get plenty of time for a walk on the beach. Along the ride don’t miss a stop at Carrapateira village with its rugged limestone cliffs and extensive sand dunes. An extra ride takes you to Farol do Cabo de Sao Vicente - the famous "end of the world," when the world was thought to be flat. This is Europe’s most south-western point. Have a look at the fortress and the lighthouse. From there, it's just a few kilometers to the town of Sagres, today’s destination. Give yourself into poolside relaxation at your historic Pousada hotel, once a 16th-century convent.
DAY 8 - Albufeira to Faro
Distance: 29 miles | Terrain: Easier to Intermediate | Faro | Hotel Eva Senses
After breakfast, we transfer by bus to Albufera, get on our bikes again and head along pleasant coastal roads to Faro. The splendid historical center of Faro is surrounded by antique walls, a gothic cathedral, the Bishop's Palace. South of Faro is the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, a series of saltwater lagoons and mudflats, which are a haven for migratory birds and wildlife. Along the seaward side of the Ria Formosa are three sandbar islands, and these are the location of Faro’s pristine beaches.
After breakfast, we transfer by bus to Albufera, get on our bikes again and head along pleasant coastal roads to Faro. The splendid historical center of Faro is surrounded by antique walls, a gothic cathedral, the Bishop's Palace. South of Faro is the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, a series of saltwater lagoons and mudflats, which are a haven for migratory birds and wildlife. Along the seaward side of the Ria Formosa are three sandbar islands, and these are the location of Faro’s pristine beaches.
DAY 9 - Ride to Tavira
Distance: 26 miles | Terrain: Easier to Intermediate | Tavira | Pousada Convento De Tavira
Ride along the Algarve, the beautiful southern coastline of Portugal. It is a region with stunning beaches, picturesque fishing towns and a glorious climate -- all of which combine to create the perfect vacation destination. See small villages like Santa Luzia, the "octopus capital" of Algarve. Cycle to Tavira, one of the most beautiful towns in Algarve. It sits on the shore of the river Gilao and is a harmonious mix of Portuguese tradition and Moorish influences. For centuries, Tavira thrived on the Tuna fishing industry, but when the fish stocks declined and tuna fishermen gave up their occupations, the anchors of their boats were left behind on the beach to rust. Keep a lookout on the way to Tavira because lying among sand dunes there is the “Cemitério das Ancoras,” or the Cemetery of Anchors, with hundreds of abandoned rusty anchors lining the beach.
Ride along the Algarve, the beautiful southern coastline of Portugal. It is a region with stunning beaches, picturesque fishing towns and a glorious climate -- all of which combine to create the perfect vacation destination. See small villages like Santa Luzia, the "octopus capital" of Algarve. Cycle to Tavira, one of the most beautiful towns in Algarve. It sits on the shore of the river Gilao and is a harmonious mix of Portuguese tradition and Moorish influences. For centuries, Tavira thrived on the Tuna fishing industry, but when the fish stocks declined and tuna fishermen gave up their occupations, the anchors of their boats were left behind on the beach to rust. Keep a lookout on the way to Tavira because lying among sand dunes there is the “Cemitério das Ancoras,” or the Cemetery of Anchors, with hundreds of abandoned rusty anchors lining the beach.
DAY 10 - Departure Day
Boa Viagem!
After breakfast, we offer one free shuttle to Faro Airport for anyone flying out. Or stay in the area and enjoy the beaches or see more of what Portugal has to offer. Boa viagem!
After breakfast, we offer one free shuttle to Faro Airport for anyone flying out. Or stay in the area and enjoy the beaches or see more of what Portugal has to offer. Boa viagem!
Map
Dates & Pricing
Prices are per person based on double occupancy (2 people in one room). Single supplement for private room is listed at the top of this page. A deposit of $500 holds your reservation for most tours. For weekend tours, the deposit is $300.
What’s Included
9 nights’ lodging, 9 breakfasts, 7 dinners (on your own for 2 dinners), guided walk in Lisbon, guided walk in Évora (UNESCO Site), all related entry fees, transfers as listed on the itinerary, bicycle and helmet, experienced multi-lingual tour guides, full van support, detailed maps and directions. Airfare not included.
Dates & Pricing
Prices are per person based on double occupancy (2 people in one room). Single supplement for private room is listed at the top of this page. A deposit of $500 holds your reservation for most tours. For weekend tours, the deposit is $300.
What’s Included
9 nights’ lodging, 9 breakfasts, 7 dinners (on your own for 2 dinners), guided walk in Lisbon, guided walk in Évora (UNESCO Site), all related entry fees, transfers as listed on the itinerary, bicycle and helmet, experienced multi-lingual tour guides, full van support, detailed maps and directions. Airfare not included.
Inns
Where you stay along the way.
Hotel PortoBay Liberdade
This is a five-star hotel in Lisbon belonging to the PortoBay Group. Situated in Rua Rosa Araújo, next to Avenida da Liberdade, the most elegant avenue right in the city center. This boutique hotel has all the features of an urban resort: an indoor swimming pool and gymnasium with natural lighting, spa with treatment rooms for two, sauna, Turkish steam bath, esplanade, patio, terrace and balconies.
Hotel Albergaria do Calvario
A family-owned hotel that prides itself on providing the highest levels of service, delivered informally. Each of their 22 guest rooms are individually designed for beauty, rest, simplicity and comfort. You will enjoy superior beds, high quality linens, comfortable pillows, good reading lights and nice touches throughout. Our bath experience features great shower pressure, ample hot water, and comfy towels and amenities.
Hotel da Barrosinha
Hotel da Barrosinha is located on the edge of the Sado Estuary Natural Reserve, just 1.2 mi from Alcácer do Sal. This farm stay is a 30-minute drive from the Alentejo coast. The air-conditioned accommodations at the property feature a private bathroom with a hairdryer, cable TV, and wardrobe. Rooms are decorated with simplicity and good taste.
Casa do Médico de Sao Rafael
The Casa do Médico de Sao Rafael meets all the conditions for enjoying a well deserved night of rest. It is a “perfect site, with a splendid view of the Bay of Sines, calm and well-located in the city.” Enjoy a deserved rest at an incredible place with a panoramic view.
Quinta Do Moinho De Vento
Offering an outdoor pool and views of the garden, Quinta Do Moinho De Vento is situated in Vila Nova de Milfontes, 1 km from Foz do Rio Mira.
Guests can enjoy the on-site bar. Certain rooms have a seating area for your convenience. Extras include free toiletries and a hair dryer. A TV is featured. There is a shared lounge at the property and you can play tennis at this guest house.
Guests can enjoy the on-site bar. Certain rooms have a seating area for your convenience. Extras include free toiletries and a hair dryer. A TV is featured. There is a shared lounge at the property and you can play tennis at this guest house.
Vicentina Hotel
A warm, family-friendly and personalized atmosphere combined with the hospitality and quality creates a welcoming place that will offer you a memorable stay and experience.
The Vicentina Hotel is located in the heart of the Vicentina Coast, Aljezur, within the Natural Park of the Alentejo Southwest and Vicentina Coast. A true pearl, maintained by its local inhabitants and with surprising natural values, here you will find one of Europe's best preserved secrets and the perfect place to relax.
The Vicentina Hotel is located in the heart of the Vicentina Coast, Aljezur, within the Natural Park of the Alentejo Southwest and Vicentina Coast. A true pearl, maintained by its local inhabitants and with surprising natural values, here you will find one of Europe's best preserved secrets and the perfect place to relax.
Pousada de Sagres
Savor views of the Fortaleza de Sagres and of the Farol do Cabo de São Vicente. It is one of the most intimate Pestana Charming Hotels, where you can admire the Ilhas do Martilhal, the Ponta da Atalaia, the Serra de Monchique and breathtaking sunsets from your hotel room in Sagres. During your stay, you can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, play some tennis or relax at the Magic Spa. For dinning, the Pousada offers both a restaurant and bar.
Hotel Eva Senses
Welcome to distinction.Sophisticated comfort in the Capital of Algarve. Eva Hotel is located in the marina with a stunning scenery to the Ria Formosa nature reserve and a landmark not only in Faro but also in the Algarve’s hospitality business.
Pousada Convento de Tavira
This inn is situated in the historic center of Tavira. It was once a 16th century convent now converted to a lovey hotel with echos of the past. During your stay, you can visit the garden, dine at the Mouraria restaurant, take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool and relax in the lounge chairs. The Pousada's cloisters are perfect for relaxing or reading a book if you wish. All rooms have views of the terraces or the garden and pool and have Wi-Fi.
Gallery
Images from this tour. Click each to see it larger.
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