Cycle Portugal's Atlantic Coast

Ola! Welcome to Portugal. Your trip begins today with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, maybe stretch your legs with a walk along this romantic riverside city’s cobbled streets and old bridges. Maybe get the lay of the land from the top of the Baroque Clerigos Tower or wander the streets to Livraria Lello – a beautiful bookstore and architectural gem with Neo-Gothic interior, carved timber shelves and a stained-glass ceiling. Or try your hand at tile painting at a local studio, learning Portugal’s azulejo tradition. After your meeting tonight, maybe head out to dinner with your group and get to know each other before you set off on two wheels tomorrow.

Time to leave the city behind and get going along the scenic route from Porto to Ovar, hugging the Atlantic coastline and passing through seaside towns and pine forests on quiet coastal paths. Enjoy the rhythmic sound of the waves as you pedal south, taking in views of sandy beaches and traditional fishing villages along the way. Pause your ride in charming Furadouro, a relaxed beachside spot known for its laid-back atmosphere. Here, maybe reward the journey with a delicious seafood lunch, indulging in freshly caught fish, grilled shellfish and regional specialties while overlooking the ocean. Continue with a short 5km ride inland to the charming town off Ovar, famous for its azulejos, the colorful Portuguese ceramic tiles that adorn many buildings and churches. This is a great town to simply wander around, checking out the many churches - the Igreja de Válega is a must-see.

Continue your journey with a relaxed coastal cycle from Ovar to Aveiro. Pedal through stretches of fragrant pine forests and along peaceful lagoons, following flat, well-marked paths that make for an easy and enjoyable ride. Along the way, pass traditional fishing areas and salt pans, where the landscape opens into wetlands rich with birdlife. As you approach Aveiro, often called the ‘Venice of Portugal’, the scenery transforms into canals lined with colourful moliceiro boats and Art Nouveau buildings. Arrive in the city with time to explore its waterside streets, sample local sweets like ovos moles and soak up the relaxed, maritime atmosphere.

Cycle from Aveiro to Figueira da Foz today on a rewarding coastal ride that combines serene lagoon landscapes with expansive Atlantic views. Leaving Aveiro’s canals behind, you’ll follow quiet roads and dedicated cycling paths through dune systems, pine forests and seaside villages, with plenty of opportunities to take in the ocean air. As you approach Figueira da Foz, the scenery opens to wide, sandy beaches. Tonight, perhaps unwind with sunset drinks by the shore, watching the sky shift through warm hues over the Atlantic – the perfect relaxing end to a day of cycling.

Ride from Figueira da Foz to Vieira today, following a scenic stretch of Portugal’s Atlantic shoreline. Weave through more pine forests, quiet dunes and wide sandy beaches that stretch along the coast. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and the peaceful rhythm of the ride as you pass small fishing communities and wide natural landscapes. As you approach Vieira, known for its traditional fishing heritage and laid-back charm, it’s a good time to slow down, take in the ocean views and enjoy the simple beauty of the coast.

Today you’ll make your way from Vieira to Obidos through some of Portugal’s most iconic coastal landscapes. Ride south toward Nazare, stopping to visit the famous Nazare Beach, known for its dramatic cliffs, wide sands and Atlantic views, to soak in the scenery. Continue inland to Caldas da Rainha, where you can sample cavacas (a traditional local sweet). From here, the journey will take you to the medieval town of Obidos, its castle walls and cobbled streets creating a fairytale atmosphere. End the day with a signature ginginha liqueur served in a chocolate cup and celebrate the ride.

Today, enjoy a comfortable private transfer from Obidos to Lisbon, with scenic stops along the Silver Coast. Travel first to Peniche – a coastal town known for its dramatic cliffs and ocean views and an ideal place to stretch your legs. Continue to Ericeira – a seaside village famed for its surf culture and whitewashed houses above the sea, where you can grab a coffee or wander around. The journey then leads to Mafra, where you’ll see the Baroque Mafra National Palace. Your last stop before Lisbon is Sintra – home to royal palaces and Moorish castles. When you arrive at your destination, maybe head out to dinner with your group to celebrate your journey.