Pedal Portugal
Pedal Portugal was set up to provide free information and advice for anyone interested in cycling in Portugal – whether you’re just thinking about a trip, want ideas for rides once you’re there or suggestions for long-distance touring routes.
In 2016 they launched their own guided bike tours, taking small groups (maximum 10 riders) around some of their favourite parts of Portugal.
Pedal Portugal was created by Huw Thomas, ex-journalist, author, teacher, gardener… and cyclist.
Southern Explorer
Tour Operator: Pedal Portugal
Portugal
12 days (Bike: 8 days)
470 km (~59km per day)
Some hills
Guided
Supported
Prices from
Guided
€ 2100
Overview
Tour Operator Pedal Portugal
This guided tour explores the hills, plains and historic towns of the southern Alentejo before crossing into the Algarve and ending at the historic riverside resort of Lagos.
Launched in 2018, the route for our this tour takes in the landscapes of the two southernmost regions of Portugal.
We normally run this trip in early spring (in time for the first wildflowers but ahead of most other tourists) and in late autumn when the days are still generally sunny and reasonably warm.
My wife and I will lead you on a journey from the open expanses of the Alentejo, through the hills along the southern edge of this region and across country to the Algarve coast.
We will ride across rolling plains, through rugged hills and along a dramatic coastline, staying in historic towns with sights dating from Roman, Moorish and medieval times.
Although not car-free, around 90% of the route is on quiet lanes and back roads where traffic is very light. There will be two rest days (with options for additional morning rides) during the tour.
Eastern Frontier
Tour Operator: Pedal Portugal
Portugal & Spain
12 days (Bike: 8 days)
606 km (~76km per day)
Quiet roads
Guided
Supported
Prices from
Guided
Please Ask
Overview
Tour Operator Pedal Portugal
Take a guided bike tour through some of the wildest and most beautiful countryside on the border between Portugal and Spain, exploring ancient towns, frontier forts and rugged landscapes.
This is our toughest tour and not for inexperienced riders as it requires being able to cycle around 80km (50 miles) on consecutive days. Although there are no major mountains, some days also involve considerable amounts of climbing. (See the itinerary below for more details.) Heat can also be a significant issue.
On the other hand, we don’t rush the ride as this bike trip will take you via some of the most beautiful scenery and quietest roads to be found anywhere in Portugal, taking in isolated villages, picturesque swimming holes, dramatic castles and sweeping panoramas.
Our emphasis is always on taking time to enjoy the cycling and the sights along the way, rather than racing to get from point to point.
Biking in a small group, we will take you through the wild landscapes of the eastern Beiras, up to the Douro valley, and then south through some of the remotest parts of Portugal.
We cross the border into Extremadura, crossing the river Tejo on a spectacular Roman bridge, and spend one night in Spain.
After crossing back into Portugal through the hills of the Serra de São Mamede we come down into the more rolling landscape of the Alentejo, ending our tour at the UNESCO-listed fortress town of Elvas.