Price
Sale
Share this trip with a friend
From
From IntroductoryTo Challenging
The Portuguese Road, or Caminho Portugués, is considered by many as the most spiritually connected pilgrimage route. Following the path St James' body took to its resting place at the site of Santiago de Compostela in Spain, the quieter Portuguese path offers a wealth of history and delightful landscapes to discover. While the Caminho Portugués is traditionally walked by pilgrims, it is also possible to enjoy the route by bike. Starting in the historic capital city of Lisbon you will cycle through countryside towns via the lively university town of Coimbra and on to charming Porto, located on the Douro River.
Read 7 reviews
More info about grading system
28kg of CO2-e PP per day
(255kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
Expand all | Collapse all
Day 1
Arrive Lisbon
Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and one of the world’s oldest cities: known as Olispio by the Romans, settled by the Visigoths and the Arabs before becoming the base for the “Discoveries’ – Columbus, Magellan and Vasco de Gama all set sail from here. An earthquake in 1755 destroyed many buildings and dramatically brought an end to this powerful empire. The UNESCO-listed Jerónimos Monastery and Tower of Belem still stands and worth a visit, as is the Alfama district for ‘fado’ (music) – or simply enjoy a stroll through the streets of this beautiful city. You will find the first waymark of your Portuguese Camino at the Cathedral.
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Cycle to Azambuja (55km/34.5mi)
This morning you will be transferred from the hotel to the bike shop at around 10am to collect your bike. Today you will cycle along the River Tejo, following mostly flat paths. Before long you will be in the countryside and will be surprised by the stark contrast from the cityscape of Lisbon. Your destination for today is Azambuja, known for its historic charm and picturesque surroundings. Cumulative elevation +550m, -590m If you prefer not to cycle out of Lisbon: an optional transfer is available from Lisbon to Azambuja (after collecting the rental bike) - an additional cost applies, speak to our staff for details including price.
Meals: B
Day 3
On to Santarem (34km/21mi)
Today you will continue to follow the river. The route will take you through fields, vineyards and orchards. You will need to climb a steep hill into Santarem, where you will stay overnight. Cumulative elevation +280m, -190m
Day 4
Continue to Tomar (64km/40mi)
The cycle route between Santarem and Tomar is mainly flat, which will allow you to enjoy the scenery en route. You will cycle along tranquil country lanes, passing through farmland and little villages. On arrival in Tomar, be sure to visit the historic and picturesque Old Town and the unique Convent of Christ, a World Heritage Site. Cumulative elevation +260m, -340m
Day 5
To Alvorge (56km/35mi)
Today’s cycle is the most challenging of this section. This morning you will head off uphill out of Tomar. The cycle for today is undulating and will take you through woods and forested areas as you pedal towards Alvorge. Cumulative elevation +1050m, -830m
Day 6
Cycle to the lively town of Coimbra (38km/23.5mi)
Today you will again pedal over undulating hills, passing lots of trees including eucalyptus and pine. The final section of today takes you over the climb of Alto de Cruz de Mourocos, which sits at a height of 190m, before dropping down into Coimbra. Coimbra is a lively university town situated on the Mondego River. Enjoy exploring this beautiful and historic city, its churches and museums and don’t miss the university itself, especially the library Biblioteca Joanina. Cumulative elevation +450m, -705m
Day 7
Continue to Agueda (48km/30mi)
Today you will travel through river valleys and urban areas along a relatively flat trail which becomes more challenging towards the end of the day. There is also a climb as you leave Coimbra. Your destination for today is Agueda, situated on the banks of the Certima river. The colours, the sound of the river and its bohemian culture permeate every corner of this charming city. Cumulative elevation +490m, -510m
Day 8
To Oliveira de Azemeis (60km/37.5mi)
You will follow the Camino through the Portuguese interior, but this time you will travel along cobbled secondary roads, discovering the charms of the beautiful villages to reach Oliveira de Azaméis. The last few kilometres into Olveira de Azemeis are uphill, but you will be rewarded once you arrive. Be sure to visit one of the town’s main attractions: the Matriz de Sao Miguel Church, and replenish your energy with a plate of delicious "bacalhau à portuguesa". Cumulative elevation +580m, -390m
Day 9
Cycle into Porto (43km/26.5mi)
Today’s cycle will take you over rolling hills as you cycle into Porto, reaching the city by crossing its iconic Ponte de Don Luis I. The Douro River will greet you as you cycle to your hotel. After checking in, take the time to explore the city with its many cultural sites and sample the local Port wines. From its beautiful Cathedral in Terreui da Sé you can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the city and wander its maze of streets. Cumulative elevation +710m, -850m
Day 10
Trip concludes
Trip concludes after breakfast. There is much to see and do in Porto, we recommend staying an extra night or more to enjoy and explore the city and surrounds. You can also continue along the next stage of the Portuguese Camino - on foot or by bike, along the Coastal Camino or the central (main) Camino towards Santiago.
What's included
What's not included
The accommodations on this trip provide a comfortable and welcoming experience, with en-suite rooms and a cozy atmosphere that reflects the character of the region. Located conveniently to the cycling route, they provide an authentic taste of local hospitality.
During the trip you will be provided with a quality mountain bike (MTB), the usual model is Univega Summit (aluminium frame, 29” rims, 20speed - sizes XS, S, M, L). You will also receive a pannier to carry your gear for the day, along with a handlebar bag, lock, repair kit and water bottle. In the case of a puncture the assumption is that you can repair. You will be given a puncture repair kit, to fix the issue.
Mountain bikes generally have a higher cross bar and are more robust than standard trekking bikes. Standard trekking bikes are available on request - see below.
Supplement applies. Usual models: Trek X-Caliber (sizes XS, S, L, XL) - Cannondale Trail (M) - Corratex X-vert (M)
Supplement applies. The usual model: Corratect All Road A2
Supplement applies. The usual model: BEEQ M500 Wild (size S, M, L)
Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are designed to make cycling easier. The pedaling ‘boost’ provided by an e-bike opens up more options, allowing people of different fitness levels to cycle together or for cyclists to take on routes they may otherwise consider too tough for their current fitness capabilities. Please note that e-bikes are heavier than normal bikes and given the higher speed possible, should only be ridden by confident cyclists. Minimum age for e-bike rental is 16 years, minimum height requirement is 150cm / 5ft, maximum height is 185-190cm / 6ft25. Note: handlebar bags are not supplied with e-bikes.
Supplement applies. The usual model: BEEQ C800 Trekking (size S, M, L, XL).
Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are designed to make cycling easier. The pedaling ‘boost’ provided by an e-bike opens up more options, allowing people of different fitness levels to cycle together or for cyclists to take on routes they may otherwise consider too tough for their current fitness capabilities. Please note that e-bikes are heavier than normal bikes and given the higher speed possible, should only be ridden by confident cyclists. Minimum age for a rental e-bike is 16 years, minimum height requirement is 150cm / 5ft25, maximum height requirement 185-190cm/6ft23. Note: handlebar bags are not supplied with e-bikes. High and low bar frames available.
Supplement applies. The usual model: Kalkoff Durban Pro - high and low bar (step through) frames available (sizes S, M, L)
GRADE 4 - with daily cycling distances from 30 to 60km / 18.5 to 37mi over diverse terrain – from relatively flat to hilly. There will be some dirt roads as well as the occasional rocky path used during this tour. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. It is considered suitable for cyclists with a good to high level of fitness. Minor roads with reduced traffic are customary on this trip and we recommend that you familiarise yourself with road cycling in light traffic in order to participate. *For safety reasons, we insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list. CYCLING THE CAMINO - All Camino cycling routes have some demanding parts requiring some technical skills and physical preparation. Some have signposted detours for cyclists but in the main cyclists continue along the Camino, having to get off bikes to avoid obstacles and walkers. The Portuguese 'Central' route is more demanding than the Portuguese Coastal route and in Spain - mainly due to signposting (it's not as well prepared for cyclists as in Spain) and the terrain is more marked.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
|
We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.
Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.
With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love.
14Days
Moderate
16Days
12Days
Moderate to Challenging
4Days