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Self-Guided Cycling in Portugal: Mountains to the Sea

Resort:Self-Guided Cycling in Portugal: Mountains to the Sea
Operator: Exodus
Destination: Europe, Portugal
Price From: £1365.00

Overview


Scenic cycling through small villages and along stunning coastline

In the far north of Portugal, on the border with Spain, lies the Minho
region: a wild, rugged area of historical and cultural significance. You
cycle through small villages and extensive vineyards, following the River
Minho towards the Atlantic Ocean. The scenery is a stunning combination of
high mountains, rolling river scenes, historic towns and dramatic coastal
landscape. You will stay in authentic accommodation offering friendly
Portuguese hospitality and delicious regional cuisine. There is plenty of
opportunity to relax and enjoy the golden stretches of beach you cycle past,
maybe accompanied by a glass of the local Vinho Verde (white wine) for which
the region is well known. The ride finishes in Porto, named best European
City Destination in 2013, 2014, and again for 2017.

Highlights

* Cycle through rugged scenery and mountain villages
* Enjoy mouthwateringly fresh fish and seafood
* Taste the local Vinho Verde directly from the vineyards
* Relax on miles of golden sand along the Atlantic Ocean
* Stay in delightful, handpicked accommodation

Itinerary

Day 1 Array

An airport transfer is included to pick you up from Porto airport (please
ensure you arrive before 2.10pm). By the time you reach Moncao, the fortified
town on the River Minho, you will come to understand why the Portuguese are
so proud of the fact that the Spanish were never able to conquer them. Upon
arrival there is time to sample some of the local wine.

Day 2 Array

On this stage you pedal westwards, along the River Minho to the Atlantic
Ocean. Your journey takes you through extensive vineyards dedicated to the
production of Vinho Verde (translates as young wine) which is a slightly
carbonated, lower-alcohol wine; the perfect drink for a warm afternoon! You
can pick up a bottle at the elegant Brejoeira Palace, which is a leading
producer of top quality Vinho Verde. Along today’s route you will cycle past
landmarks of the battles between Portugal and Spain, such as the 17th Century
stronghold at Valenca and the Vila Nova de Cerveira fort. That evening arrive
in the elegant town of Caminha, located on the estuary of the River Minho,
with a history dating back to pre-Roman times.

Day 3 Array

Today you spend the morning cycling along the dramatic Atlantic Ocean
coastline, through fishing villages that appear unchanged for centuries.
Arriving in Viana do Castelo the peace and quiet is replaced by the buzz of
this lively city, situated on the estuary of the River Lima. Viana has an
impressive maritime history and the wealth created by this is demonstrated in
the narrow lanes, crowded with Manueline manors and Rococo palaces. A
must-see is the 19th Century Byzantine Santa Lucia Church on the hilltop
overlooking the city, worth the steep climb for the breathtaking view. From
here you cycle inland until you arrive in Ponte de Lima, the oldest village
in Portugal. Your accommodation tonight is in a delightfully rural setting,
and there is time to taste some of the wine and honey made on the estate
itself.

Day 4 Array

Cycle along the Lima river to Ponte da Barca. The town’s historical centre
has a number of manor houses (some of which have been adapted to provide
accommodation for tourists), as well as some beautiful monuments dating from
the sixteenth to the eighteenth century. The route continues to Arcos de
Valdevez, a town is situated in the valley of the River Vez and still retains
much of the typical charm of the Alto Minho province – luxuriant green
landscapes and the traditional architecture of its buildings, amongst which
the most impressive are the manor houses. The municipality of Arcos de
Valdevez is located inside the boundaries of the Peneda Geres National Park,
where nature still conserves all of its original charm.

Day 5 Array

The ride today follows the ancient Portuguese route towards Santiago de
Compostela, and whether you are religious or not, is a really special
experience. It is a route that those who have walked it for centuries, do so
knowing they will meet challenges, experience great joy, and learn the lesson
of life. The pleasant route today is through cornfields and vineyards to the
pretty town of Barcelos on the River Cavado. Barcelos is the centre of the
pottery industry in Portugal. There are markets held in the town on most days
and a visit to one of these is highly recommended.

Day 6 Array

The ride back to the Atlantic today is a short stage, so why not take some
extra time to enjoy a great lunch the Portuguese way: a leisurely, several
course meal that reminds you again why the Portuguese people are so proud of
their cuisine. You arrive in Vila do Conde where you can enjoy a walk around
the manors and palaces within the town centre, and take a leisurely stroll
along the beach before dinner.

Day 7 Array

The last stage of your holiday takes you on quiet cycle paths along the
coast; along sand dunes, and passing through fishing villages and a seabird
reserve. You approach Porto, and enter via the estuary of the River Douro. A
UNESCO World Heritage City and best European City destination for 2013, 2014,
and again for 2017, Porto is considered one of the most beautiful cities in
Europe. The old centre boasts more than 1500 listed monuments, and the
history of the traditional Port Wine can be explored by visiting many of the
Port cellars which are open to the public and can be appreciated during the
included Port tasting.

Day 8 Array

Leave Porto