Cycle through the mountains, vineyards, and coastlines of northern Portugal.
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!
Highlights of the Minho and Porto Biking Adventure
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Minho and Porto Biking Adventure Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Porto and Transfer to Castro Laboreiro
When you arrive at the Porto airport you’ll meet your transfer and journey by shared vehicle to Castro Laboreiro. It will be a scenic drive- keep an eye out the window as you pass the rolling vineyards and tiny villages that are scattered up the mountainside.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Castro Laboreiro
Distance: None
Meals: None
Day 2 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.
Overnight Location: Guesthouse in Monção
Distance: Easy option: 3 hours, 44.32 km, 250m of ascent and 993m of descent
Medium option: 4 hours, 57 km, 222m of ascent and 1006m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 River and Vineyard Riding
Your cycling path today will follow along the River Minho. You’ll have left the mountains behind yesterday and are now travelling through the Vinho Verde vineyards, where some of Portugal’s most-loved wine is produced.
On your route will be the Brejoeira Palace and the 17th-century forts at Valença and Vila Nova de Cerveira. Feel free to linger awhile at these spectacular monuments. As you ride towards the coast, you’ll stop in the historic town of Caminha, where you’ll be spending the night.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Caminha
Distance: 3 hours, 48.3 km, 134m of ascent and 108m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 Climb Meadinha Hill
Today there will be another huge change of scenery as you arrive at the coast. Follow the sparkling ocean shoreline as you pass by little fishing villages and golden beaches.
You’ll eventually ride into Viana do Castel, which is an incredible port city that dates back to Roman times. It is worth the steep climb up the hill to the byzantine Santa Luzia Church, where you’ll have a breathtaking view of the city.
Your path will turn inland as you follow the river to Ponte de Lima. Take some time to explore the oldest town in Portugal and marvel at its famous 24-arch Roman bridge. Tonight, you’ll be staying in a quiet little spot on the edge of town.
Overnight Location: Guesthouse in Ponte de Lima
Distance: 4 hours, 52.8 km, 97m of ascent and 76m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 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.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Barcelos
Distance: 2 hours, 32.5 km, 300m of ascent and 192m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 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.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Vila do Conde
Distance: Easy option: 2 hours, 35.88 km, 246m of ascent and 151m of descent
Medium option: 3 hours, 44.34 km, 273m of ascent and 159m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 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.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Porto
Distance: Easy option: 2 hours, 34.4 km, 232m of ascent and 50m of descent
Medium option: 3 hours, 47.9 km, 120m of ascent and 77m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8 Farewell, Portugal!
This morning you will take the included transfer back to the Porto airport. See you next time!
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
Minho and Porto Biking Adventure Price and Dates
This self-guided cycling tour of northern Portugal is run as a custom tour for your group and the price depends on the number of people in your group and the time of year in which you choose to travel.
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.
Private Self-Guided Minho and Porto Biking Adventure
Have your own private tour with just your group! The standard departure day is Sunday, but you can pay a supplement of $75 USD per person to depart a different day of the week. This surcharge only applies to groups of 2-3 people. Larger groups can depart any day of the without any additional costs. Prices below are per person:
Low Season (March 1st – April 30th and October 1st – November 30th):
- Self-guided groups of 2-5: $975 USD
- Self-guided groups of 6-10: $795 USD per person
High Season (May 1st – September 30th):
- Self-guided groups of 2-5: $1,075 USD
- Self-guided groups of 6-10: $895 USD per person
Accommodation on the 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. You can pay a supplement of $325 USD - $395 USD (depending on the season) to have a private room.
Hotels on Standard Tour
Castrum Villae Hotel in Castro Laboreiro ★★★
This cozy mountain hotel has 32 comfortable rooms and a leisure room where you can enjoy a game of billiards or a nightcap after your busy day.
Manor House Solar de Serrada in Monção
Solar de Serrade is a beautifully preserved 17th-century manor house. Guest rooms have warm wood accents and views of the gardens or vineyards.
Design & Wine Hotel in Caminha ★★★★
This historic building features a sleek modern design and amenities, including an in-room aromatherapy system.
Quinta da Agra, Ponte de Lima
This manor house is full of rustic charm and is surrounded by a beautiful farm. Enjoy the peaceful valley views and explore the nearby vineyards.
Hotel Bagoeira in Barcelos ★★★
Although it is situated in the main square, you may not want to leave this hotel. It features a rooftop terrace bar and a 400 year old restaurant.
Hotel Brazão in Vila do Conde ★★★
This hotel has clean and simple rooms. It’s in a charming fishing town with great restaurants and the beach is nearby.
Caris Porto Ribeira Hotel ★★★★
Soak in the history of Porto by staying in this Ribeira quarter hotel. It features modern, comfortable rooms.
What’s Included in the 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
Transfers from and to the airport in Porto at the beginning and end of your tour are included. Luggage transport throughout the tour is also included.
Also Included
- Welcome meeting
- Hybrid 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, and prepaid mobile phone
- Overnight storage of bicycles at the hotel
- Emergency support between 8 am and 8 pm
- 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 for €55 EUR. 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
- Guide: You can also book this itinerary as a guided tour, prices are available upon request
- Wine and Olive Oil experiences: $50 USD per person, includes Vinho Verde wine visit and tasting at Monção on Day 2 and Ponte de Lima on Day 4, port wine visit and tasting at a historic cellar in Porto on Day 7
- Wine & Dine Package with 2 dinners: $150 USD per person, includes dinner at the hotel restaurant with a 3-course meal and wine and a glass of port on Day 5, gourmet dinner in Porto with a four-course meal and three wines on Day 7
- Picnic lunch: $125 USD per person, includes 6 light picnic lunches for you to carry on your bike
- E-Bike supplement: $150 USD per bicycle (subject to availability)
- Extra transfers between Porto Airport and city center: $75 USD up to 3 people, $125 USD for up to 7 people
Frequently Asked Questions about Minho and Porto Biking Adventure
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