Porto to Lisbon Coastal & Heritage Bike Tour

Join this Douro bike tour suitable for road cyclists who want to discover the world’s first demarcated wine region and historic Portuguese villages. Ride along the river, enjoy the trademark UNESCO World Heritage Site, the “socalcos” or terraced vineyards, and experience the centuries-old traditions of this region.

Visit the wine cellars, taste some of the best Port and Douro wines and discover traces of Portugal’s early history, dating back up to 30000 years. Visit the historic villages and climb the most beautiful viewpoints. Drive to the historic Portuguese villages and visit the medieval castles, the Paleolithic engravings and the rugged nature of the Douro International Park and its byways.

The history of this region begins and ends in Porto, one of the oldest urban centres in Europe, settled in the 4th century during the Roman occupation under the name of Portus Cale, in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed “socalcos” that house the wineries on the steep hills of the Douro River, and in the unique traditions, architecture, Port wines and wineries. Visit Palaeolithic archaeological sites with prehistoric rock engravings and drawings dating back to 22000-20000 years BC, and stay in some of Portugal’s historic villages with their own medieval castles.

On this Douro bike tour you will experience beautiful landscapes and viewpoints over the Douro Valley, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its characteristic “socalcos” or terraced vineyards; the undiscovered paradise of one of Portugal’s most remote areas, the Douro International Park: endless olive oil and orange fields, river beaches and wildlife. Visit the authentic and picturesque villages of Peso da Régua, Pinhão, Marialva and Barca d’Alva, all near or on the banks of the Douro motorway and used in the past to trade and transport grapes and wine to and from Porto in the traditional “Rabelo” boats that docked in their ports.

Taste the different wines of the Douro Valley, from the world-famous and highly acclaimed Port wines, recently named the best wines in the world in 2014, to the esteemed red and white Douro wines. Experience the wine production system: help farmers stomp the grapes in the traditional way, visit the farms and wineries and watch the “Rabelo” boats bring the wine to the city of Porto. Enjoy the varied and tasty local gastronomy, whether in Michelin-starred restaurants or in the local “tascas”. Meat lovers will not forget the “Posta Mirandesa” or the oven-baked and smoked meats.

Eat and sleep in the region’s charming hotels, which were once wineries or medieval castles but are now fully equipped hotels with their own spas and amazing amenities to make you feel at home. Hop on a boat and sail the Douro to discover the region from a different perspective. Climb the lookouts on this Douro bike tour and enjoy privileged views of the world’s most beautiful wine-growing region. And enjoy the long, sweeping and almost car-free descents of the Douro International Park. Choose between shorter or longer rides each day and set your own destinations and pace during your bike tour.

Day 1 - Welcome to Portugal - Transfer to Ovar and ride to Aveiro and Vista Alegre (50 km)

Meet your guide in Porto before a short transfer south to the charming town of Ovar, where your cycling adventure begins. After a professional bike fitting and tour briefing, set off along Portugal's beautiful Atlantic coast, riding through quiet seaside roads, pine forests and traditional fishing villages  and the picturesque canals of Aveiro, often referred to as the "Venice of Portuga", before reaching the historic Vista Alegre estate in Ílhavo. This elegant hotel, set within Portugal's most famous porcelain factory, provides a unique introduction to the journey ahead.

Accommodation: Montebelo Vista Alegre Ílhavo Hotel (room upgrade included in the premium option)

Day 2 - Vista Alegre to Figueira da Foz (60 km)

Today's ride continues along the Atlantic, passing colourful fishing communities, coastal lagoons and sandy beaches. Ride through the picturesque village of Costa Nova, famous for its striped beach houses, before following quiet roads towards the lively seaside resort of Figueira da Foz. Enjoy an afternoon stroll along one of Portugal's widest beaches or relax with a drink overlooking the ocean.

Accommodation: Vila Galé Collection Figueira da Foz (room upgrade included in the premium option)

Day 3 - Figueira da Foz to Coimbra (60 km)

Leave the coast behind as you head inland towards one of Portugal's most fascinating cities. Quiet country roads and gentle rolling terrain lead you to Coimbra, home to one of Europe's oldest universities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend the evening exploring its historic streets, charming cafés and lively atmosphere.

Accommodation: Sapientia Boutique Hotel or Quinta das Lágrimas (hotel upgrade included in the premium option)

Day 4 - Discover Coimbra

Enjoy a relaxed day exploring Coimbra at your own pace. Visit the magnificent University of Coimbra and its famous Joanina Library, wander through the medieval centre, discover the Monastery of Santa Clara or simply enjoy the city's vibrant cafés and riverside atmosphere. In the evening, consider attending a traditional Fado de Coimbra performance for a truly memorable cultural experience.

Accommodation: Sapientia Boutique Hotel or Quinta das Lágrimas (hotel upgrade included in the premium option)

Day 5 - Coimbra to Monte Real (79 km)

Return to the countryside as today's route winds through peaceful farmland, eucalyptus forests and small rural villages before arriving in the historic spa town of Monte Real. After the ride, reward yourself with a relaxing afternoon in the thermal spa, enjoying the perfect opportunity to recover before the next stages of your journey.

Accommodation: Monte Real Hotel, Termas & Spa (room upgrade included in the premium option)

Day 6 - Monte Real to Nazaré and Alcobaça (57 km)

Today's stage returns to the Atlantic coast. Ride towards the fishing town of Nazaré, famous for its giant waves and spectacular clifftop viewpoints. Climb to Sítio for breathtaking panoramic views over the coastline before continuing through rolling countryside to the beautiful town of Alcobaça. Here you'll spend the night beside one of Portugal's most important UNESCO World Heritage monuments, the magnificent Monastery of Alcobaça.

Accommodation: Montebelo Mosteiro de Alcobaça Historic (room upgrade included in the premium option)

Hotel Day 7 - Alcobaça to São Martinho do Porto, Foz do Arelho and Óbidos (43 km)

One of the shortest but most rewarding rides of the tour. Cycle through the elegant bay of São Martinho do Porto before reaching the tranquil lagoon of Foz do Arelho, where the Óbidos Lagoon meets the Atlantic Ocean. Continue inland to the enchanting medieval town of Óbidos, surrounded by perfectly preserved castle walls. Spend the afternoon wandering its cobbled streets, browsing artisan shops and tasting the region's famous cherry liqueur, Ginjinha.

Accommodation: Pousada Castelo de Óbidos (room upgrade included in the premium option)

Day 8 - Free day in Óbidos

Take a well-deserved rest day in one of Portugal's most beautiful medieval towns. Walk along the ancient castle walls, visit local wineries, relax at a nearby spa or explore the beaches surrounding the Óbidos Lagoon. For those wishing to remain active, optional activities such as kayaking or a round of golf at nearby world-class courses can also be arranged.

Accommodation: Pousada Castelo de Óbidos

Day 9 - Óbidos to Santa Cruz (50 km)

Leaving Óbidos behind, continue south through peaceful countryside and along spectacular stretches of coastline towards the surfing village of Santa Cruz. Quiet roads, dramatic cliffs and endless Atlantic views define today's ride. Your destination is one of Portugal's most unique boutique hotels, offering the perfect setting to relax beside the ocean.

Accommodation: Noah Surf House or Areias do Seixo (hotel upgrade included in the premium option)

Day 10 - Santa Cruz to Ericeira (35 km)

The final cycling day follows Portugal's rugged western coastline to Ericeira, one of Europe's most famous surfing destinations and a charming fishing village full of character. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring its whitewashed streets, scenic viewpoints and excellent seafood restaurants while celebrating the completion of your Atlantic cycling adventure.

Accommodation: Vila Galé Ericeira or Aethos Ericeira (hotel upgrade included in the premium option)

Day 11 - Departure

After breakfast, a private transfer takes you to your hotel or Lisbon Airport, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through some of Portugal's most beautiful coastal landscapes, historic towns and cultural treasures.