Your JourneyDay 1 Arrive Lisbon Meet your group and tour leader over dinner at 7 pm Day 2 Lisbon – Estoril – Cascais 40 km Morning guided bike tour of Lisbon finishing at Belem where Vasgo de Gama set sail from. Ride a coastal route on Lisbon's Riviera to Estoril then on to the beautiful seaside town of Cascais. Day 3 Cascais – Parque Natural of Sintra 55 km Ride a stunning coastal route past charming villages to Cabo da Roca, continental Europe´s most westerly point. Day 4 Ericeira – Sintra 45 km Cycle pasturelands and agricultural landscapes to Sintra, a virtual fairytale kingdom and once home to generations of Portuguese royalty seeking solitude in this verdant mountain hideaway. Day 5 Sintra Free day to explore the palaces, Moorish fortress and boutique shops and cafes. You can bike the forested paths leading to a Moorish Fortress and of course, La Pena Palace – an extraordinary site. Day 6 Parque Natural of Arrabida -Vineyards of Setubal 50 km Transfer to the highlands of the Arrabida Park and ride through the woodlands of Setubal, passing traditional windmills and visiting (optional) a wonderful family run vineyard – tasting their wines and homemade cheese. End in Setubal, a thriving city set on the Rio Sado – home to the country´s most abundant wildlife (bird) sanctuary. Day 7 Troia Peninsula - Santiago do Cacem 59 km Cross the Rio Sado by ferry (20 min). Troia Peninsula has some of Portugal´s most remote coastline (great for dolphin and whale watching). We continue south, following cork forests to the historic Moorish town of Santiago do Cacem, a colourful sleepy Alentejo village where little has changed in centuries. Day 8 Santiago do Cacem - Lisbon Farewell your group and tour leader after breakfast and transfer to Lisbon Airport (1 hr 30 min). TerrainMostly moderate cycling with some long flat rides. There are 2 long ascents on days 2 and 4 where you can take a lift in the support vehicle if you wish. |
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Lisbon Coast & Villages Cycle Tour
Guided - 8 Days / 7 Nights 225km
Portugal, like its neighbour Spain, is a land of wonderful contrasts. Classified a Mediterranean country, mostly for its customs, heritage and passion for the marine environment, it´s truly distinct and surprisingly global – on account of its historic ties with Asia, India, Africa and South America. Once at the forefront of navigation and world discovery, Portugal remains an intriguing place where history, landscape, gastronomy and a humble, soft-spoken culture welcomes visitors to its sun swept corners.
This week of diverse cycling takes us through the heart of Portugal´s best kept secrets. From breathtaking coastlines, rural landscapes to enchanting hilltop palaces. We observe Manueline architecture, verdant National Parks and visit century old vineyards and farmsteads - hearing tales of chivalry & Templar Knights. Of course opportunities to sample Portugal´s tasty local dishes, its superb wines and delicious pastries are part of the experience! For music and art aficionados, Portugal´s distinct Sado comes rich in musical storytelling while ceramic, classical paintings and neo classical architecture add to the cultural richness of the nation.
