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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 now possible to enjoy the route by bike. Starting in the historic capital city of Lisbon you will cycle through countryside towns to the university town of Coimbra. Continue on to the lively city of Porto, set on the banks of the Douro River and famous for its port wine production, the cycle through small hamlets, past eucalyptus and pine woods, over ancient bridges and through larger market towns dating back to Roman times. You will cross the border in to Spain and finally cycle into the fabled town of Santiago de Compostela.
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27kg of CO2-e PP per day
(411kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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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 +230m, -261m 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 +140m, -37m
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 +370m, -427m
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 +855m, -630m
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 +621m, -805m
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 +483m, -491m
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 +567m, -377m
Day 9
Cycle into Porto (43km/26mi)
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. There is much to see and do in Porto, we recommend staying an extra night to enjoy and explore the city and surrounds. Must be requested at time of booking. Cumulative elevation +755m, -889m
Day 10
Cycle the Coastal Camino to Vila do Conde then to Arcos (45km/28mi)
Three Caminos depart from Porto - the Central (inland), the Coastal (original coastal) and the Coastal Path (Senda Litoral). Recommended for cycling is the Senda Litoral. Setting out from Porto's Se (cathedral) you head to the coast and Matosinhos (or you can take the Metro with your bike) and follow the coastal path to Vila do Conde. From here you will cycle inland and through eucalyptus and pine forests to arrive in Arcos this afternoon.
Day 11
On to Ponte de Lima, the oldest town in Portugal (54km/33.5mi)
Today you will cycle across rolling hills and through woodlands and little villages. You will pass through the market town of Barcelos. With its impressive medieval bridge, Barcelos is treasured for its history and legends (eg. the Barcelos cockerel) and is a fantastic place to stop for lunch. You will continue to Ponte de Lima, the oldest town in Portugal. Once you have checked in to your hotel, the cobble stoned streets of Ponte de Lima are a delight to walk through and there are many points of interest including museums, historic houses, a prision tower (now a library) and the main square, Largo de Camoes, to explore. The medieval bridge spanning the Lima River has Roman foundations but was rebuilt in 1368. Many festivals take place here including Vaca das Cordas in June (the day before Corpus Christi), medieval markets in August, and Feiras Novas on the third weekend in September, a party which goes on for 3 days. Cumulative elevation +444m, -318m
Day 12
Cross the Spanish border to Tui (39km/24mi)
Today will be a harder day on the bike, with lots of hills to conquer. However the distance is quite short, so you will have time to soak in the scenery en route. You will see small churches, cycle over green hills, and finally cross the international bridge from Valença do Minho in Portugal, to Tui in Spain. Cumulative elevation +780m, -752m
Day 13
On to Pontevedra (52km/32mi)
Another challenging day on the trail. Today starts out following the Camino de Barca first before reaching the Túnel das Monxas. A sharp climb up to the San Telmo bridge will follow. After this, the terrain will become a little easier as you continue towards O Porriño. Later in the day a short climb leads up to the chapel of Santiaguiño de Antas, and you will then cycle through pine forests en route to the fishing village of Arcade. You will enjoy stunning views over the Bay of Vigo as you pedal towards the historic city of Pontevedra, where you will overnight. In Pontevedra there are some interesting sites to be explored including the Santuario da Peregrin chapel and the Convento de San Francisco. The medieval town centre is a maze of cobbled laneways with tapas bars and cafes. Cumulative elevation +948m, -952m
Day 14
Cycle to Padron (40km/25mi)
Today you will pedal through chestnut groves, pine and eucalyptus forest. You will pass through the hamlet of Tivo and the village of Caldas de Reis, before crossing the River Umia and gradually climbing to the village of Santa Marina. Your destination for today is Padron, where the body of St James is said to have first landed when brought to Santiago. Cumulative elevation +463m, -487m
Day 15
To Santiago (26km/16mi)
The final day takes you again through pine, oak and eucalyptus wood before climbing to reach Santiago. You will pass a number of small villages en route, before spotting the spires of Santiago’s Cathedral in the distance. If you time your arrival well you will be able to attend the midday Pilgrim’s Mass in Santiago. This afternoon you are free to discover the many interesting sites of Santiago’s charming old town. Cumulative elevation +463m, -193m
Day 16
Trip concludes
Trip concludes after breakfast. If you'd like to add an extra night, please ask for our rates.
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.
The usual model: Kalkoff Durban Pro - high and low bar (step through) frames available (sizes S, M, L)
From relatively flat to hilly and at times there are steep slopes. This trip is considered suitable for cyclists with a good to high level of fitness and who have a strong cycling technique.
There will be some dirt roads as well as the occasional rocky path used during this tour. There are points where cyclists may have to get off their bikes and push for a few metres to get around a complicated or dangerous route on the bike. Parts of the route have poor tread, stones and gravel which require greater skill with the bike.
GRADE 4 - with daily cycling distances from 26 to 64km /25 to 40mi over diverse terrain – from relatively flat to hilly and at times there are steep slopes. There will be some dirt roads as well as the occasional rocky path used during this tour. Parts of the Camino have poor tread, stones and gravel which require greater skill with the bike. At times you may need to walk your bike to get around obstacles. Early in the trip there are 3-4 railway bridges to cross (using lifts, or cycling around if the e-MTB is large). It is important to be in good physical shape to fully enjoy this trip. It is considered suitable for cyclists with a good to high level of fitness and who have a strong cycling technique. 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 & legal* reasons, we insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list or provided with bike on request. *Helmets are mandatory in Portugal & Spain on all roads and paths. 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: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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