Authentic Trails

Prepare for an unforgettable adventure along Portugal's most unspoiled coastline! The Costa Vicentina brings together the romantic tranquillity of the Alentejo and the raw, untamed beauty of the Algarve’s wild shores. This is a land where nature reigns, with golden sands, hidden beaches, and rugged cliffs shaped by the fresh Atlantic breeze. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, the trails here offer not just a mild climate but also a window into the region’s authenticity. You’ll follow paths once trodden by fishermen and locals, discovering secluded coves and breathtaking fishing spots along the way. The cycling routes are rewarding, unveiling the stunning beauty of this protected coastline. As you pedal through the heart of the Rota Vicentina, you’ll experience a perfect blend of nature, rural charm, and unforgettable moments that will stay with you long after your journey ends.

Highlights

• Discover the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, a haven of protected ecosystems and wild beauty.
• Admire the 17th-century Vila Nova de Milfontes Fort.
• Wild beaches and impressive coastal dunes.
• Visit Odeceixe Beach, a cliffside gem and one of Portugal's 7 Natural Wonders.
• Explore Aljezur's historic castle and vibrant market, filled with regional delicacies.
• Experience Praia da Amoreira's pristine landscapes, perfect for unwinding in nature.
• Witness an unforgettable sunset at Cabo de São Vicente, Europe’s south-westerly tip.
• Discover Sagres, where dramatic cliffs and seascapes meet centuries-old maritime history.
• Lagos, home to paradisiacal beaches and a rich, welcoming heritage.
• Savor the flavors of the region with fresh fish, seafood, and traditional dishes.
• Dive into stories and legends that bring the cultural fabric of the region to life.

From 185 km/115 mi to 192 km/119 mi

Start your ride at the easternmost point of the Douro River, where dramatic cliffs over 200 metres high mark the border between Portugal and Spain. Pedal through the Douro International Nature Reserve, home to diverse birdlife, and enjoy spectacular views as you follow old railway lines through forests, almond groves and vineyards. The Douro Wine Region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its unique terraced vineyards, particularly near Pinhão and Peso da Régua. Your accommodation has been carefully selected for an authentic experience, with stays in historic hotels, olive oil estates, elegant townhouses and traditional family-run quintas. Choose your route—shorter for ease or longer for a challenge. Feeling strong on your calves? Take the longer path and uncover more of this extraordinary region. After all, it’s your way!

Start in Porto, one of Europe's jewels and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn about Port wine and how it pairs with the rich local cuisine. Cycle along the coast, smelling pine and eucalyptus in the sun. Venture to Aveiro, the Venice of Portugal, with its canals and salt pans. Explore Figueira da Foz, a vibrant seaside town, and Nazaré, home to legendary beaches and traditions. Pass through Óbidos, a medieval town surrounded by magical walls. Arriving in Lisbon, let yourself be enveloped by the golden light that illuminates its rolling hills. The Portuguese capital has ochre-coloured roofs, tile-covered façades and medieval alleyways. It is a city where northern Europe meets the southern Mediterranean. Come and cycle through memories, flavours and landscapes.

Highlights

• Picturesque beauty of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage City
• Lisbon, the capital of light, blending tradition and modernity, shopping and gourmet experiences.
• Accommodation in lively seaside towns, some on the beach
• Enjoy golden beaches and the sea, countryside, forests and lagoons
• Cycle through the protected São Jacinto Dunes Natural Park
• Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Portugal's towns and cities
• Towns rich in Roman, Baroque and Neoclassical architecture
• Experience Aveiro, known as the Portuguese Venice, and Nazaré, the most famous village Portuguese village
• Savor the delicious flavours of the Atlantic Ocean, with daily catches of the freshest fish and shellfish
• Benefit from convenient airport transfers and comfortable accommodations in lively coastal towns
• Explore Óbidos, a charming medieval town, rich in history and cultural heritage

240 km/149 mi

This land is also blessed by the Minho, Lima and Douro rivers, each of which will accompany you at different points on your ride. This region has a rich maritime history and fascinating fortifications that helped keep Spain in its borders. This is the land of fine mountain cuisine and, along the coast, a wealth of fish and seafood dishes that you'll absolutely love! Enjoy them with a glass of Vinho Verde wine. And the best part is that you'll get to meet some of the nicest Europeans on this journey! Meet the fishermen and their wives, the farmers, and the lovely lady at the local shop. And don't forget to chat with the owners of your accommodation – they'll have some fascinating stories to tell. Choose your route—shorter for ease or longer for a challenge. Feeling strong on your calves? Take the longer path and uncover more of this extraordinary region. After all, it’s your way!

Highlights

• Explore the Peneda-Gerês National Park, a sanctuary for unique species such as the Iberian wolf
• Discover mountain villages steeped in tradition and historic centres and fortified towns of remarkable beauty
• Taste the crisp and aromatic Vinho Verde wine from extensive vineyards
• Visit fishing villages frozen in time, preserving a wealth of tradition
• Memorable food and wine experiences with hospitable landowners
• Savor the freshest fish and shellfish, caught daily from the Atlantic Ocean
• Experience Barcelos, a vibrant hub of handicrafts and hand-painted pottery
• Cycle along the coast with its golden sandy beaches
• Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and European City of the Year 2020

From 256 km/159 mi to 287 km/178 mi

Starting in Porto, you'll cycle along the ancient pilgrimage route towards Santiago de Compostela. Along the way, you'll pass through historic towns such as Barcelos, with its lively market every Thursday and iconic rooster symbol, and Ponte de Lima, where the bridge that spans the River Lima was originally built by the Romans. At Valença, you cross the Minho River on a bridge built in 1886, before arriving in Tui, Spain. Every turn on the route offers the chance to engage with the locals, experience regional traditions and enjoy centuries-old landmarks. As you approach Santiago, the excitement builds, culminating in a visit to the Cathedral of Santiago, a spiritual centre for pilgrims from all over the world.

Highlights

• Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage city full of history and charm.
• Cycle through Barcelos, famous for its lively market on Thursdays and iconic rooster symbol.
• Pass through Ponte de Lima, home to a medieval bridge and charming historic architecture.
• Follow the same route that Queen Isabel of Portugal (1271 - 1336) took during her pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.
• Soak up Pontevedra's vibrant culture and indulge in the region's fresh, local Galician cuisine.
• Taste the flavours of Padron, with its renowned seafood and famous pimientos de Padron.
• Santiago de Compostela, where the Cathedral of Santiago stands as a landmark for pilgrims.
• Galicia's tranquil countryside, forests, hills and scenic landscapes.

Experience Porto, where Portugal's identity was born. This UNESCO World Heritage Site invites you to explore the origins of port wine, a signature drink intertwined with the region's rich culinary traditions. Ride along Europe's stunning beaches, taking in the sun and the distinctive scents of the Atlantic. Discover Aveiro, known as the Venice of Portugal, with its canals and salt pans. Ride through vast pine forests, originally planted to support Portugal's Age of Discovery. Stop in Figueira da Foz, a vibrant seaside town. Culminate your adventure in Coimbra, a World Heritage city on the banks of the Mondego River, home to Portugal's oldest university, the city's romantic streets, historic landmarks and vibrant cultural life. Explore its convents, majestic churches and cafes.

Highlights

• Explore the historic and charm of Coimbra and the picturesque beauty of Porto, two UNESCO’s World Heritage cities
• Accommodation in lively seaside towns, some on the beach
• Enjoy golden beaches and the sea, countryside, forests and lagoons
• Cycle through the protected São Jacinto Dunes Natural Park
• Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Portugal's towns and cities
• Towns rich in Roman, Baroque and Neoclassical architecture
• Experience Aveiro, known as the Portuguese Venice
• Savor the delicious flavours of the Atlantic Ocean, with daily catches of the freshest fish and shellfish
• Benefit from convenient airport transfers and comfortable accommodations in lively coastal towns

Pedal along a remarkable coastline, passing golden beaches, lush forests, and tranquil lagoons. Along the way, visit traditional fishing villages where ancient techniques still thrive, and enjoy the freshest seafood, a true highlight of the region's cuisine. Explore nature reserves such as the São Jacinto Dunes, a sanctuary of biodiversity. Visit coastal towns where life revolves around the sea and meet fishermen who preserve timeless traditions.
Wander through Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its exceptional architecture and cultural richness. Walk across the iconic Luís I Bridge and visit the Ribeira, where you can learn about the history of its famous Port wine. Your journey ends in Mira, a peaceful coastal town, marking the conclusion of your memorable adventure. Choose your route—shorter for ease or longer for a challenge. Feeling strong on your calves? Take the longer path and uncover more of this extraordinary region. After all, it’s your way!

Highlights

• Baiona, a charming Spanish town with a rich maritime heritage, cycling through its historic port, where the Atlantic meets centuries of seafaring tradition
• Cross into Portugal by ferry or bridge, entering a new country with expansive beaches, rolling hills, and the distinct character of the Portuguese coastline
• Wander around Viana do Castelo, a town rich in heritage and landmarks, framed by the coast
• Visit Vila do Conde, a town steeped in history, featuring the Santa Clara Convent and a quiet marina, ideal for a relaxing stroll
• Ride past Porto's iconic iron Luis I bridge for views of the city centre and riverside life—an excellent way to experience Porto from the saddle
• Furadouro, a village known for its wide sandy beaches, where the scent of pinewood enhances the tranquil atmosphere
• Mira, a quiet fishing village, celebrated for its calm coastline, offering a peaceful end to your journey

258 km/161 mi to 313 km/194 mi