Portugal has everything for those who love exploring on two wheels: safety, good weather, delicious cuisine and stunning landscapes.
With a welcoming culture and cycling-friendly infrastructure, this country is a true paradise for cyclists of all agesand experience levels.
Here, we present some circuits, all of which can be done in 3 or 4 days, at a moderate pace and which will provide an unforgettable trip.
Lisbon West Coast
Magic and History on Two Wheels Cycling Along the West Coast.
Ericeira, Sintra, Cascais and Lisbon is a perfect route for those visiting Portugal for the first time, or for those who have not had any experience like this kind in our country. Lisbon, the capital and most important city in the country, is wonderful.
For this reason, exploring its entire history, climbing its hills and enjoying the wonderful views, feeling the city's vibe and cycling along the Tagus River to get to know the historic area of Belém is absolutely mandatory.
Cycling through Sintra, which is just a short distance from Lisbon, is like stepping into a fairy tale.
Between dense forests and winding trails, every turn reveals an imposing castle or palace.
The iconic Pena Palace, with its vibrant colors and romantic architecture, appears on the horizon like an enchanted vision.
The fresh air, often shrouded in mist, brings a mystical atmosphere.
In addition to the stunning views, the route offers a complete sensory experience, with the aroma of eucalyptus and the irresistible flavor of Sintra's queijadas and travesseiros, sweets that make any stop worthwhile.
Lisbon and Sintra, on this circuit, can be added the luxurious Cascais coast and the old fishing village, currently known as the capital of surfing, the picturesque Ericeira village.
Minho
Minho Is an Explosion of Green.
Green, Wines and Tradition In the north of the country.
The vineyard-covered hills reflect the sunlight, creating a breathtaking scenery.
The route through the Lima, Minho and Vez Valleys, with their crystal-clear rivers, transports cyclists to a world where nature reigns.
Crossing small stone villages, fields of vines and corn, is like cycling through the past.
In places like Ponte de Lima, Ponte da Barca, Viana do Castelo, Caminha, Valença, Arcos de Valdevez, Sistelo, you can feel history on every corner and in every cobblestone street.
At the end of the day, at the table, socializing with the friendly local people, in the company of good local food and a glass of chilled vinho verde (grren wine) refreshes the soul and celebrates the adventure lived.
Central Portugal
Rivers, Wines and Culture The central region of Portugal is home to some of the most relaxing trails in the country.
The Dão, Vouga and Mondego eco-paths take cyclists through serene landscapes, where the sound of running water accompanies the route.
The Dão vineyards stretch across gentle hills, creating a picturesque setting.
Small stone bridges and old railway tunnels now adapted for bicycles add a special charm.
The smell of ripe grapes in the air announces that a break to taste the local wines is essential.
Passing through cities such as Aveiro (Venice of Portugal), Coimbra (University City), Viseu and Penacova, as well as other small towns, such as São Pedro do Sul, known for its centuries-old thermal baths, are other highlights of this route. Each pedal stroke reveals a new landscape, a new angle of beauty.
Serra da Estrela N. Park
Challenges and rewards for cyclists looking for fresh air, a quiet place, away from the crowds and with extremely beautiful scenery, the Serra da Estrela Natural Park is the perfect destination.
In Serra da Estrela is located the highest point in mainland Portugal, the Torre, which is located almost 2000 MT above sea level.
Here you will cycle through glacial valleys, observe imposing rocks, bathe in the numerous lakes that exist along the trails and drink the pure water from the springs located throughout the park.
The aridity of the rocks on the top of the mountains contrasts with the lush forests in the Manteigas area and the fresh water of the rivers that born here, like Zêzere, Mondego and Alva.
Other attractions in this region are its villages with traditional houses made of granite and shale, as well as the friendliness of the local people and the absolutely delicious cuisine, where cheese is a special highlight.
Algarve Coast.
Sun, Sea and Good Vibe
Cycling Algarve is a living painting, where golden cliffs, carved into beautiful caves, meet the infinite blue of the ocean.
The Rota Vicentina and Ecovia do Litoral take cyclists along stunning coastal trails, where each bend reveals a new paradise beach.
Lagos, Carvoeiro and Sagres are must-see stops, each with its own charm.
While the smell of the sea invites us to swim at every beach we pass, the smell of fresh fish and grilled seafood always invites us to stop for another snack and one more beer.
The end of the day in the Algarve is always a bonus, it is a golden spectacle provide by the sunsetand every day ends with a toast to the sun and the good life.
Algarve is not just a destination, it is an experience for the senses, to be enjoyed and lived!
Caminhos de Fátima
A Spiritual and Cultural Route
This is the most traditional Portuguese route, cycling along the Caminho de Fátima is more than a physical journey; it is an inner journey.
Although you can start at various points in the country, the route we propose is the one that starts in Lisbon.
This route, which begins along the Tagus River, with lush landscapes where you can see a lot of birds, like flamingos, passes through small traditional villages focused on artisanal fishing, agriculture and cattle raising, with a special emphasis on bulls.
After Santarém (capital of the Gothic style) the landscapes adorned by the Tagus River give way to fields covered with centuries-old olive trees and cork oaks that seem to whisper stories from the past.
In the final phase of this route, the passage through the Serra de Candeeiros and D’Aires Natural Park is another highlight of this trip.
In this area, a visit to the majestic Minas da Serra D’Aire, one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal, is a must.
Upon arrival at the Sanctuary of Fátima, regardless of one’s beliefs, emotion takes over everyone, as there is always a deep sense of achievement.
Conclusion
Regardless of the region chosen, cycling through Portugal is always an enriching and fun experience.
With security, good infrastructure, pleasant weather and incredible cuisine, every kilometer traveled becomes a celebration of the country's culture, natural beauty and good life.
Our team is waiting with open arms to help you discover Portugal in a unique way!
