Cycling Portugal's Atlantic Coast

Arrive in Porto, a vibrant city set on the Atlantic Ocean at the mouth of the Douro River. Explore its old quarter, the Ribeira and its maze of narrow cobbled streets and beautiful plazas. From its UNESCO World Heritage Site medieval quarter to its large avenues of the early 20th century, Porto has so much to offer.

This first day starts from the old Porto crossing the Don Luís Bridge which has a spectacular view over the Douro River. It will provide great moments to keep in memory. On the way, you will have the chance to enjoy several small beaches like Valadares, Francelos, and Miramar as cycling on a path near the coastline. Although the water might be too cold for some, these beaches are a great spot to take a bath and enjoy the sun (if the weather conditions allow it!). Miramar Beach is worth a stop to visit a small and intriguing little chapel that sits on the top of a boulder by the shore; the famous Capela do Senhor da Pedra. At Espinho, a seaside resort town, you will continue on a beautiful cycling path along the pine tree forest to Furadouro beach. On the way, you will discover the beautiful Lagoon of Paramos (also known as Esmoriz lagoon), where you can observe some birdlife. The overnight will be in Ovar, an open-air tile museum

Total ascent/descent: 108m (354ft) / 191m (626ft)

Today you will have a different and special day. Far away from the ocean, you will have the opportunity to discover incredible and historic hidden secrets of Portugal. Leave Ovar and ride inland towards “SantaMaria” lands, preparing yourself for an easy but challenging day. Thegoal is to reach Santa Maria da Feira. The city’s most distinctive feature is its emblematic and medieval castle, with a design and layout that is unusual amongst Portuguese castles, looking more like something that has been plucked straight out of a book of fairy tales. You also can visit the Convento dos Lóios Museum, a 16th-century convent, which has a unique and well-preserved cloister with a fountain in the middle of a stunning stairway that zig-zags up to the western façade of the connecting Church of the Holy Spirit. Explore this beautiful region and fall in love even more with the Portuguese culture.

Total ascent/descent: 361m (1184ft) / 386m (1266ft)

Today you will continue the path along the coast towards the city of Aveiro, known as the little Venice of Portugal. The ride will take you through the wildest and least explored area of the Ria. The Aveiro Ria has long been the heart of the city, imbuing it with vibrancy and vitality while preserving local traditions. Formed in the 15th century as the shoreline receded, leaving behind vast sandbanks spanning eleven thousand hectares, the Ria has evolved into a captivating network of canals and islands, earning Aveiro the moniker of the "Portuguese Venice". Its waters teem with diverse species, from lamprey clams to storks, herons, and various birds of prey, as well as mammals like genets and otters, prompting its designation as a protected area. There'll be countless opportunities to observe local wildlife, and you'll have the chance to immerse yourself in the fishing life of the surrounding villages, where the Ria serves as a vital source of sustenance. Upon reaching the heart of Aveiro city, you'll be greeted by the iconic Moliceiro boats, a quintessential symbol of the Aveiro Ria.

Total ascent/descent: 150m (492ft) /144m (472ft)

As you leave Aveiro, you will head down a path that crosses the land of ponds, where salt is extracted by an old traditional method passed down through generations. As you head-on, you will arrive at a dock in which you can view the harbor and some old codfish boats. After, you will cross the main bridge and arrive at Barra Village. On the way to Mira, you will have the opportunity to admire the famous haystack houses of CostaNova, easily recognizable by the paintings on vertical colored bands. Then, the scenery will be from the Ria itself. However, as you arrive at the end of it, the landscape will begin to change into small fields and vegetable gardens right up until Mira Beach.

Total ascent/descent: 44m (144ft) / 59m (193ft)

Today you will say goodbye to the immense Atlantic ocean and ride towards Coimbra, a city that in old times was the medieval capital of the country. Famous for its University, the oldest in Portugal, and one of the oldest in Europe, it is a place full of heritage and historic places to discover (recognized as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO). The scenery will be motivating. In the beginning, you will ride side by side with Ria de Aveiro. Then, as the path goes on, typical villages will appear with their simplicity. You will also pass by Cantanhede, a demarcated wine-growing region of Portugal. After, you will cycle accompanied by the Montego River, a river renowned for its purity and transparency, making it the perfect scenery to reach the town of Coimbra. Like the Portugueseexpression says: “one does not listen to Fado, one feels Fado”. So, we invite you to enjoy your free time, drinking some Portuguese wine and listening to Fado music, a symbol of Portuguese culture and tradition.

Total ascent/descent: 254m (833ft) /195m (639ft)

The tour finishes after breakfast. Proceed with your onward travel plans. Please let us know if you wish to book a departure transfer (not included and a supplement is applicable) to the airport.