Minho and Porto Biking Adventure
Overview
Mountains, coastline, ancient pilgrimage routes, rows upon rows of vineyards- the self-guided Minho and Porto Biking Adventure showcases all the best that Northern Portugal has to offer.
The Minho and Porto Biking Adventure begins by descending a mountain range in the lush Gerês National Park, where you’ll observe wildlife and stunning mountain views. Throughout the tour, you’ll bike down to lower farmlands and vineyards as you gradually follow the rivers to the spectacular Atlantic coastline. Here you’ll be exploring the fishing villages, forts, and ancient towns that line the golden beaches. While the stunning scenery and riding is the main draw on this bike tour, you’ll also be enjoying a bounty of local produce. Fuel your bike ride with fresh seafood, local wines, and other regional delicacies.
Northern Portugal awaits, so get on the bike and get out there!
Minho and Porto Biking Adventure Overview
Mountains, coastline, ancient pilgrimage routes, rows upon rows of vineyards- the self-guided Minho and Porto Biking Adventure showcases all the best that Northern Portugal has to offer.
The Minho and Porto Biking Adventure begins by descending a mountain range in the lush Gerês National Park, where you’ll observe wildlife and stunning mountain views. Throughout the tour, you’ll bike down to lower farmlands and vineyards as you gradually follow the rivers to the spectacular Atlantic coastline. Here you’ll be exploring the fishing villages, forts, and ancient towns that line the golden beaches. While the stunning scenery and riding is the main draw on this bike tour, you’ll also be enjoying a bounty of local produce. Fuel your bike ride with fresh seafood, local wines, and other regional delicacies.
Northern Portugal awaits, so get on the bike and get out there!
Cycle diverse landscapes, including a part of the famous Camino de Santiago to Santiago de Compostela.
Soak up the atmosphere of Portugal by staying in hand-picked boutique properties with great locations and local charm
Visit ancient historic sites, such as Valença Fort, the 13th century Mother Church and the UNESCO World Heritage city of Porto.
Enjoy fresh regional produce including seafood, olive oil, and Vinho Verde wine.
Trip map for Minho and Porto Biking Adventure
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Itinerary for Minho and Porto Biking Adventure
Arrive in Castro Laboreiro
Arrive at Castro Laboreiro where your adventure will begin.
Cycle through Gerés National Park
Your first day of biking begins in the stunning Gerés National Park and continues into the Serra de Peneda Mountain range. This area is home to wolves and golden eagles, but you’re more likely to see a deer or wild boar along your route.
You’ll cycle through quiet villages and will notice the unique granite maize stores that are still somewhat in use. Your trail ends today in the fortified town of Monção, nestled on the banks of the Minho River.
River and Vineyard Riding
Today, you will travel eastwards, along the River Minho to the Atlantic Ocean. Your journey will take you through the demarcated Vinho Verde winemaking region and the vineyards that produce the dry white wine for which it is famous. Enjoy the elegant Brejoeira Palace which is still inhabited by the family, a leading producer of top-quality Vinho Verde, and pick up a bottle of this wine for dinner. Along the route, you will cycle past landmarks of the battles between Portugal and Spain, especially the impressive 17th century stronghold at Valença and the Vila Nova de Cerveira fort. That evening, you will stay in Vila Praia de Âncora, a traditional fishing town by the river and the sea.
Cycle to to Ponte de Lima
Cycling along the mighty Atlantic Ocean is an extraordinary experience, especially when the ocean is showing its friendliest face as you ride past fishing villages that appear unchanged for centuries. As you arrive in Viana do Castelo the peace and quiet is replaced by the buzz of this lively city at the estuary of the river Lima. A must-see is the 19th century byzantine Santa Luzia Church on the hilltop overlooking the city.
From here you will cycle inland again, following the river Lima until you arrive in Ponte de Lima. The oldest village in Portugal, it is famous for its beautiful 24-arch Roman bridge famous and its importance to medieval pilgrims as they made their way from Porto to Santiago de Compostela.
Ride the Camino de Santiago
You’ll have a nice easy ride today, but it will certainly be meaningful! You will be cycling on the centuries-old Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. Many have sought answers along this historic route that the devout still walk today, believing their sins will be forgiven upon arrival in Santiago de Compostela.
The city of Barcelos is your stopping point today. Here, you can learn about the local pottery trade or visit the 13th century Mother Church.
Enjoy the Bounty of the Atlantic Coast and Ride to Vila do Conde
You’ll enjoy the fresh ocean breezes as you return to the coast during your ride today. At lunch, take the time to enjoy the bountiful fresh seafood that the region is known for.
You’ll ride to Vila do Conde, where you’ll find this fishing harbour has a famous ship-building legacy. Make sure to take a stroll along the beach after your incredible seafood dinner.
Bike the Coast to Porto
Today you’ll have a quiet cycle through the dunes on the coast. Keep an eye overhead as you pass through a sea bird reserve!
You’ll follow along the Douro River to your final destination, the UNESCO World Heritage city of Porto. Explore the historic city and its over 1500 monuments. You may also want to celebrate the final evening of your trip with a glass of the famous local port.
Farewell, Portugal!
This morning, after breakfast your tour will conclude. See you next time!
Reviews
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Dates and prices for Minho and Porto Biking Adventure
This self-guided tour is always run as a private tour for your group only.
2025 Departures
The departures are available every Sunday, from March 1st to November 30th.
- Solo traveller: on request
- Single room (2+ travellers): from $2,075USD*
- Sharing a double room: from $1,425USD*
*-Pricing for this tour depends on the dates of your trip and all the prices are per person. Please click the booking button below to get the exact pricing for your trip dates.
What’s included for Minho and Porto Biking Adventure
Meals
7 breakfasts are included on this tour. There are optional meal or tasting packages that may be added.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 7 nights are included.
Transportation during the Tour
Luggage transport throughout the tour is included.
Also Included
- Standard touring bicycle, cargo rack, pannier bike bag, bike lock (one per two bicycles), and helmet
- Tool kit, first aid kit, puncture repair kit, pump, spare inner tube
- Overnight storage of bicycles at the hotel
- Emergency phone support
- Access to route mobile app
Please note that it is advised that travellers bring their own helmets, however previously used helmets are provided. You may also opt to purchase a new one. Please request this option at the time of booking.
Not Included
- Travel insurance
- Flights to and from Porto
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Tourist taxes if applicable
- Visas if required
- Personal equipment
- Fees not mentioned as ‘included’
- Gratuities for hotel staff, servers, or drivers
Optional Extras
- Upgrade tour to Premium services: (private transfers at the start and end of your tour, full route briefing and 30-minutes bike fitting, on-call roadside assistance, private reception in Portugal, daily post-ride messages)
- Guide or support vehicle
- Wine and Olive Oil experiences
- Wine & Dine Package with 2 dinners
- Picnic lunches
- E-Bike supplement
- Extra transfers between Porto Airport and city center
- Prepaid mobile phone
- Shared transfers to and from the airports.
Accommodation for Minho and Porto Biking Adventure
This tour is based in 3 and 4-star hotels and guesthouses. The properties have all been chosen so that you can enjoy the different cultures of the region.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations. The hotel list will be sent to you with your confirmation but will be reconfirmed 31 days prior to your arrival.
Single Rooms and Solo Travelers
Rooms are double occupancy and single travellers will pay a supplement.
Frequently asked questions for Minho and Porto Biking Adventure
How hard is the Minho and Porto Biking Adventure?
We rate this tour as a 2 / 5. The rides on this tour are 2 to 4 hours in length on paved paths or easy trails. Most rides give the option to choose between two difficulties, but many of the trails are downhill or mostly flat regardless.
Will I need internet access for the app during my rides on the Minho and Porto Biking Adventure?
You will need to download the guide app included on this tour before you begin any of your hikes. This way, you will be able to access the maps and route guides on your device when it’s offline.
Do I need a visa to travel to Portugal?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Are meals included on the Minho and Porto Biking Adventure?
7 breakfasts are included. Additional meal packages may be added in advance.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover cycling. Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Castro Laboreiro to start this tour?
You can fly into Porto Airport (OPO). An optional private or shared airport transfer to your hotel in Castro Laboreiro is possible for a supplement.
Is the Minho and Porto Biking Adventure guided?
No, this is a self-guided tour. You will have access to a route guide on an included app. If you prefer to book this as a guided tour, let us know.
Where does the Minho and Porto Biking Adventure end?
This tour ends in Porto.
Is my bike rental included?
Yes, your cycling equipment is included. This tour includes a hybrid bicycle, cargo rack, pannier bike bag, bike lock (one per two bicycles), and helmet. A tool kit, first aid kit, puncture repair kit, pump, spare inner tube, and prepaid mobile phone are also included. Please bring any additional equipment desired.
Can I rent a child seat or trailer?
Yes, you can rent a child seat or bike trailer for children older than 9 months and up to 4 or 5 years old. Please request at time of booking for pricing and availability.
Is my helmet rental included?
Yes, a previously used helmet will be provided. It is recommended that you bring your own helmet if you prefer. You may also opt to purchase a new one for €55 EUR, please request this option at the time of booking if you’d like.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Portugal?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Portugal?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
When is the best time to travel to Portugal for this tour?
The best time to visit this region of Portugal is early summer (June) and early fall (September) when the weather is warm but not too hot and it’s not as busy as high summer can be.
Why book with 10 Adventures?
Self-guided Specialists
Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of the logistics are taken care of.
Packed with Inclusions
Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.
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