Northern Portugal Cycling Tour

Valença, the well-preserved star-shaped fortified town, is a fitting introduction to Northern Portugal and where your cycling adventure begins.

Tomorrow, your journey on two wheels commences. In the meantime, head out on foot and explore the sights and sounds of Valença.

Setting out along the Ecovía, you’ll follow the converted railway track across the old bridge into Spain.

Further on, cruising through the beautiful old town of Tui, you can stop to enjoy a coffee and some fascinating people-watching.

Continuing the route, you’ll cruise along the River Minho, enjoying a flat and pleasant ride, leading you to the bridge at Salvaterre. Back on the Portuguese side, a visit to the enchanting historic town of Monçao is up next, before a final stretch following the Ecovía along the river banks back to Valença.

Your second day on the bike begins on the Portuguese side as you ride along the riverbank to your next fortified town of Vilanova de Cervera, where you can stretch your legs and enjoy a refreshment.

Following Seixes, you’ll cross the River Coura via an ancient steel bridge, continuing the route to Caminha, located on the scenic River Minho.

At Caminha, a short ferry will provide a helping hand to get you across the River Minho (only possible when the tide is high). After crossing the river, you’ll embark on a lovely circuit along the coast as you ride to the sandy shores of A Guarda. Here, you’ll find an electric atmosphere paired with pristine beaches and breathtaking natural beauty in every direction.

Enjoy the town by bike and on foot before continuing the loop back to Caminha.

Today has an easy but beautiful route in store as you make your way south along the Atlantic Coast, pedalling surfaced lanes, wooden walkways, and tractor ruts. Sandy shores will accompany you most of the ride, and a refreshing dip (or two!) along the way comes highly recommended.

As the route wraps up, you’ll cross the harbour at Viana do Castelo, entering the old town center. Viana do Castelo is the largest and liveliest town on the route, providing endless opportunities to explore, dine, sip, and enjoy!

Setting out from Viana do Castelo this morning, you’ll depart via the old bridge, crossing the River Lima. A serene route then unfolds along the riverbanks, guiding you alongside vegetable gardens and the famous vineyards that produce the well-loved Vinho Verde.

Ponte de Lima (the oldest town in Portugal), founded in 1125, marks the halfway point on today’s route. You’ll then continue the trail back to Viana.

Spend your final evening soaking up the magic of this remarkable region, savouring those last delightful glasses of Albarinho and Vinho Verde!

This morning after breakfast, your cycling tour in Northern Portugal comes to an end. Check out and depart for the airport, taking with you a week’s worth of unforgettable cycling memories.