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Duration
10 days
Activities
  • self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 9 nights in hotels and guesthouses
Meals
  • 9 Breakfasts

Price

$2290USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: ULP

Trip highlights


  • Discovering by bike the small villages and pilgrimage sites along the Camino Portugués
  • Exploring the fascinating cities of Lisbon and Porto
  • Sampling the culinary delights of the area
  • Enjoying the hospitality of family run hotels

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 lively Coimbra, and then continue on to the romantic Porto, located on the Douro River.

Trip Grading

moderate to challenging

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

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 monastery in Belem still stands and is definitely 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

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 Azumbuja, known for its historic charm and picturesque surroundings. There is an option to take an afternoon transfer from Lisbon to Azumbuja, to allow you to spend more time in Lisbon (an additional cost applies, speak to our staff for details including price).

Meals:  B

Today you will continue to follow the river. The route today will take you through fields, vineyards and orchards. You will need to climb a steep hill into Santarem, where you will stay overnight.

Meals:  B

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.

Meals:  B

Today's cycle is the most challenging of this section. This morning you will head off uphill out of Tomar. The route today is undulating and will take you through woods and forested areas as you pedal towards Alvorge.

Meals:  B

Today you will again pedal over undulating hills, passing lots of trees including eucalyptus and pine. The final section takes you over the climb of Alto de Cruz de Mourocos, which sits at a height of 190m / 625ft, 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.

Meals:  B

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, Agueda, is situated on the banks of the Certima river.

Meals:  B

Today you will cycle through lots of fields and little villages as you head towards Olveira de Azemeis. The last few kilometres into Oliveira de Azemeis are up a steep hill, 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.

Meals:  B

Today’s cycle will take you over rolling hills as you cycle into Porto. Porto, located on the banks of the Douro River, is a city full of maritime legacies. After checking in to your hotel, take the time to explore the city with its many cultural sites and sample the local Port wines.

Meals:  B

Trip concludes after breakfast - or continue along the next stage of the Portuguese Camino, all the way to Santiago.

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

  • 9 breakfasts. Breakfasts are usually continental inclusive of breads, cheese, ham, tea, coffee & juices.
  • 9 nights in a combination of 3-4 star hotels & farmhouse B&Bs on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • Mountain bike rental (standard model) with repair kit, lock, panniers, water bottle & pump (gel saddle, toe clips, SPD pedals; bike upgrade options available: Advanced MTB or electric bikes: e-touring, e-MTB). A standard trekking bike is also available on request. Please specify your preferred bike type when booking
  • Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
  • Digital information pack with route notes & GPX
  • Pilgrim's Passport
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to Lisbon and from Porto
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • Advanced MTB or electric bikes: e-touring, e-MTB, supplement applies
  • Entrance fees
  • Guide – this is a self guided cycling trip
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Entrance fees not listed as included
  • Transfers not listed as included
  • Transfers (an optional transfer is available between Lisbon and Villa Franca de Xira - additional costs apply)
  • Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
  • Excess luggage
  • Handlebar phone holder – to follow the route more easily using the GPX files
  • Items of a personal nature

Bike information


Grading

moderate to challenging  

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING – GRADE 4 The cycling is moderate to challenging (4) grade 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.


Departure dates

Daily except Saturday from 1 Mar to 15 Nov

Notes

Note:
Not available to start on Saturdays as the bike shop is not open on Sundays.
Note:
Departures from November to February are possible on request however you 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.
Note:
Subject to availability over the Christmas and New Year period and during local festivals.

Want to organise a private group?

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

Priceper person from

$2290USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Helmet purchaseUSD$50
  • Bike upgrade supplement - MTB premium modelUSD$70
  • E-bike supplement: e-MTB or e-touringUSD$230
  • Single supplementUSD$630
  • Solo traveller supplementUSD$1160
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

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.  

Self-Guided Specialists

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.

Our Wide Range

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. 

Videos

Caminhos de Santiago | Ways of St. James

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