Along the Alentejo Coast

Cycle Portugal's Alentejo and southwest Vicentina coast, where rugged cliffs meet turquoise Atlantic waters. This 8-day inn-to-inn tour runs from the fishing town of Sesimbra to Vila Nova de Milfontes, passing through four protected areas: Arrábida Natural Park, the Sado Estuary, the Santo André and Melides Lagoons, and the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentina Coast Natural Park.

Ride quiet secondary roads and coastal dirt tracks, take the ferry across the Sado River where dolphins live, and pedal through dunes, rice fields and cork oak forests. Along the way, stop at a family olive mill, Santiago do Cacém castle and the fishing harbours of Porto Covo.

Pause for fresh seafood, regional wines and gourmet beach picnics, with plenty of chances for an Atlantic swim. The tour finishes with one of Portugal's most spectacular clifftop rides. A Charm Seaside version offers upgraded hotels.

Highlights Arrábida Natural Park, Sesimbra Castle and seaside swims Sado River ferry crossing to the Tróia Peninsula, home to wild dolphins Santo André and Melides lagoons and the Marble Book Monument Santiago do Cacém castle, Roman ruins and a family olive mill Fishing coves of Porto Covo and Vila Nova de Milfontes Clifftop ride along the Vicentina coast with stork nests and Almograve Beach

Surface and terrain
Quiet secondary roads with sections of dirt road, mostly flat along the coast. Day 2 through Arrábida is hilly with four longer climbs (890 m), and day 4 ends with a climb into Santiago do Cacém. Asphalt alternatives are available on dirt sections.

Weather
Mild Atlantic climate with sea breezes keeping summers warmer rather than hot on the coast. Spring and autumn are ideal for riding, with water warm enough for a swim from June to October. Winters are mild and wetter.

Suitable for
Leisure riders comfortable with 30 to 60 km days and one hilly stage. Suits couples, friends and small groups who enjoy beaches, seafood and nature. Five service levels and e-bikes make it suitable for a range of abilities.