Full Portuguese Camino Cycle

Name: Full Portuguese Camino Cycle
Brand: UTracks
SKU: ULS
Rating: 4.00 (3 reviews)

Cyclists entering a village on the Portuguese Camino

Cycling the Portuguese Way | Gus Cheung

The Portuguese Camino offers quiet cycling trails

Finishing the Portuguese Way | Gus Cheung

Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela

Porto harbour in Portugal | Jaclyn Lofts

Cycling the Portuguese Way | Gus Cheung

Cyclists entering a village on the Portuguese Camino

Cycling the Portuguese Way | Gus Cheung

The Portuguese Camino offers quiet cycling trails

Finishing the Portuguese Way | Gus Cheung

Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela

Porto harbour in Portugal | Jaclyn Lofts

Cycling the Portuguese Way | Gus Cheung

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Duration

16 days

Activities

self guided cycle

Accommodation

15 nights in hotels

Meals

15 Breakfasts

Price

$3490USD

Overview

Trip Code: ULS

Trip highlights

Discovering on by bike the small villages and pilgrimage sites along the Camino Portugués
Exploring historical, Ponte de Lima, Lisbon, Porto, Tomar and Coimbra
Experiencing culinary delights of the area, including the local port wines
Enjoying the hospitality of family run hotels
Cycling into the fabled town of Santiago de Compostela

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.

Trip Grading

moderate to challenging

More info about grading system

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Itinerary

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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 There is an option to take an afternoon transfer from Lisbon to Azambuja, to allow you to spend more time in Lisbon - an additional cost applies, speak to our staff for details including price. In this case the rental bikes may differ from the usual models shown and will be available at the hotel there (no bike shop visit this morning).

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

Meals: B

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

Meals: B

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 +840m, -683m

Meals: B

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

Meals: B

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

Meals: B

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

Meals: B

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

Meals: B

Day 10
Cycle to Arcos (37km/23.2mi)

Today you will cycle along quiet country roads, passing a mixture of churches and historic sites. Even from the first day of cycling you will get a taste of this history of this ancient pilgrimage. You will cycle through eucalyptus and pine forests before arriving in Arcos this afternoon.

Meals: B

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

Meals: B

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

Meals: B

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

Meals: B

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

Meals: B

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

Meals: B

Day 16
Trip concludes

Trip concludes after breakfast. If you'd like to add an extra night, please ask for our rates.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.

Inclusions

What's included

15 breakfasts - Breakfasts are usually continental inclusive of breads, cheese, ham, tea, coffee & juices.
15 nights in a combination of 3-4 star hotels & farmhouse B&Bs on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
Mountain bike (MTB) rental (standard model) with helmet, repair kit, lock, panniers, water bottle & pump. Bike options available on request: Trekking (non-MTB) bike, or with supplement: Premium MTB or electric MTB or e-Trekking bike. Equipment available: gel saddle, toe clips, SPD pedals, helmet purchase - supplement applies
Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
Digital information pack with route notes & GPX
Pilgrim passport
Emergency hotline

What's not included

Travel to Lisbon and from Santiago
Meals not listed as included, drinks
A 4 night dinner package is available on request, supplement applies. Dinners in Arcos, Ponte de Lima, Tui & Padron. These will usually consist of 3 courses, starting with a salad, followed by a chicken, red meat, fish or pasta dish & finishing with a dessert of fruit or cakes
Travel insurance - mandatory
Guide – this is a self guided cycling holiday
A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
Bike upgrade models, helmet purchase (if you prefer not to use the rental helmet provided) - supplement applies
Toe clips, gel saddle, SPD pedals - please ask for our rates
Entrance fees not listed as included
Transfers not listed as included
Transfers (optional transfers are available on request from Lisbon and Azambuja and Porto to Arcos - additional costs apply)
Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
Excess luggage
We recommend bringing a handlebar phone holder – to follow the route more easily using the GPX files
Hotel taxes if applicable – payable directly to the hotel
Items of a personal nature

Bike information

Mountain Bike - Standard

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 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.

Mountain Bike - Premium Model

Supplement applies. Usual models:- Trek X-Caliber (sizes XS, S, L, XL) - Cannondale Trail (M) - Corratex X-vert (M)

Electric Mountain Bike

Upgrade to an electric Mountain Bike (E-MTB): the usual model is BEEQ M500 Wild (size S, M, L). A supplement applies.

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.

Electric Trekking Bike

Upgrade to an electric trekking bike, the usual model is BEEQ C8000 Trekking (size M, L). A supplement applies.

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.

Hybrid Trekking Bike - standard (on request)

The usual model is Kalkoff Durban Pro - these come in mens and ladies/low bar styles, sizes S, M,L. Available on request.

Trail Surface

Diverse terrain

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.

Diverse terrain

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.

Grading

moderate to challenging

GRADE 4 The cycling is moderate to challenging (4) grade 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.

Departure dates

Daily except Saturday from 1 Mar to 15 Oct

Notes

Note:

Not available to start on Saturday as the bike shop is not open on Sunday.

Note:

Other dates are available on request. Supplements may apply outside of the main season due to additional charges for luggage transfers and hotel closures (some transfers may be required to confirm your booking).

Note:

Departures in winter are likely to experience wetter and colder conditions than at other times. Winter can be a magical time to experience the Camino with fewer people and more local encounters, but the cycling day is shorter. and there may be snow or sleet at times. In addition, hotel closures are possible which may require a change in overnight towns.

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Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$3490USD

Options & Supplements*

Helmet purchaseUSD$50
Fisterra Day Trip ex Santiago - daily departures 15 April to 31 OctoberUSD$80
Bike upgrade supplement - MTB premium modelUSD$110
Optional 4 dinner package - Porto to Santiago stageUSD$180
Excess luggage (max extra 1 piece pp, max 20kg in weight) -additional pieces on requestUSD$220
E-bike supplement: e-MTB or e-TouringUSD$400
Single supplementUSD$1010
Solo traveller supplementUSD$1530

*Prices listed are per person

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