Minho and Porto Biking Adventure

Arrive at Castro Laboreiro where your adventure will begin.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

This morning, after breakfast your tour will conclude. See you next time!