PORTUGAL´S SILVER & GREEN COAST

Self-Guided

5 Day Cycling tour

LENGTH

7 Days

DIFICULTY

Easy

START & END

Viana - Aveiro

DISTANCE

228 Km

GROUP SIZE

Min 2 Max 8

LODGING

Standard or Superior

From 1.160€ / per person

 4.5/5

LENGTH

7 Days

DIFICULTY

Easy

START & END

Viana - Aveiro

DISTANCE

228 Km

GROUP SIZE

Min 2 Max 8

LODGING

Standard or Superior

From 1.160€ / per person

 4.5/5

OVERVIEW

This tour is a gathering of several very beautiful areas of Portugal. The north and its green Minho, the Silver Coast, the estuary of the Vouga River and Aveiro the little Venice of Portugal. Not to forget Porto considered the best travel plan of Europe. Starting in the historical Viana do Castelo city, the gem of Minho, between the sea, river and mountain, cycle south on an easy cycling. Visit the most ancient town of Portugal, Ponte de Lima. Its historical legacy goes back to the romans and well beyond. Povoa de Vazim and Esposende are also of great significance to Portugal, its from here that some caravels saw the overseas and conquer the world, from Vila do Conde shipyards. One still waiting for you… Cycling path are along the coast taking you to UNESCO heritage Porto. The Wine Cellars of Porto Wine, the medieval town, and the beautiful avenues are here for you. Good cuisine, superb night life and other experiences are available. South of Porto while cycling in flat country and along beach areas you get to Espinho. From here pine forest and sandy dunes make your way to Aveiro. Following the estuary of the Vouga River little towns and amazing coun-tryside take you to the Canals of our Venice. Aveiro, the Moliceiro, colorful boats, now converted to be “gondulas” are placidly navigating thru Aveiro. The Salt marsh and the old town are of visit.

GALLERY / PHOTOS

HIGHLIGHTS

Porto UNESCO Heritage site.
Porto City
Viana do Castelo historical centre.
Atlantic scenery
Ponte de Lima, the oldest town in Portugal.
Portugal Historical towns

Portuguese local Wines and Gastronomy
Fishing Towns.
Porto Wine Cellars.
Easy cycling lanes.
Aveiro, the Venice of Portugal

ITINERARY

DAY 1 - ARRIVAL & TRANSFER TO VIANA DO CASTELO

Welcome to Portugal!

The day start with your reception at the airport, or other place previously arranged. It follows about 1 h transfer to Viana do Castelo city and to your accommodation.

After Check-in a comprehensive information pack will be handled to you. Bike fitting follows to help you with the bikes adjustments.

Viana is waiting if you still have time, take a stroll or your bikes to the old medieval centre. Visit the hilltop Zimborio, a little uphill, there is a funicular… or the Hospital boat Museum. Viana have a lot to offer…

Accommodation: Standard or Superior

Meals: –

DAY 2 - CYCLE TO PONTE DE LIMA & BACK (57km)

Going along the river Lima, following the north shores, you’ll get to feel the countryside of the Minho Region. The river offers very beautiful landscapes. From agricultural land and wilder areas you cycle thru rural areas. The Bertiandes Lagoons are a natural protected area and not far from Viana do Castelo and near Ponte de Lima.

The oldest town in Portugal is he highlight of the day, Ponte de Lima. The Cycle path will take you over the old roman bridge into town. The castle tower and ramparts are still there. The town square is typical of the Minho Region.

The coming back towards Viana do Castelo, is this time via the south bank of the river. The scenary will be of wooden areas and agricultural farmland and villages are part of the afternoon ride. All to reach the Eiffel bridge that carries cars and trains to Viana.

The old town, the Sé, and central square are the perfect area to end your day. If not there is the wonderful sunset view from the Hilltop Church….

Accommodation: Standard or Superior

Meals: –

DAY 3 - CYCLE VIANA TO VILA DO CONDE (54km)

The path is leaving Viana do Castelo via the Eiffel iron bridge, south!

Along the coastline toward Esposende you will be following the coast to the river Neiva crossing. Small typical villages are by the path, Belinho is one of them…

Esposende by the cavado river estuary is the perfect place to stop for lunch. The Litoral Norte natural area is just out of Esposende, a protected area of sandy dunes and pine woods. Dedicated to be a sanctuary for birds.

Along agricultural land, vegetables , potatoes, onions and lot more are produced here and found their way into the wonderful cuisine of the region. Povoa de Varzim is near and is a well know beach area in the north of Portugal. Little more and Vila do Conde is reached.

Historical place of both the Saint James path and the shipyards of caravels, one still here to be visit…

Accommodation: Standard or Superior

Meals: –

DAY 4 - CYCLE VILA DO CONDE TO PORTO (36km)

Vila do Conde port is smal but carries the historical site of the building of vessels for the discoveries in the XIV and XV centuries.

Now until Porto the path will follow in the opposite direction the variant of Saint James Path, this time to Porto. Cycling paths will lead you crossing sand dunes, a bird sanctuary and hopping from beach to beach. And even a Iron settlement unique as its the only one by the beach is all Iberian peninsula!!

Passing thru Matosinhos and its mobile bridge. Longing the Port and by the front Beach you reach the Fortress of Castelo do Queijo. You are entering Porto. Continue cycling the lane and you’ll reach the mighty Douro river and soon the center UNESCO world heritage site.

One marvellous site, and once again history is present. By the river is of medieval times, as you start to climb away from the Douro… The final pedaling stage is along XIII century town… And some from XIX c. to arrive at your hotel.

Accommodation: Standard

Meals: –

DAY 5 - CYCLE PORTO TO ESPINHO (23km)

This day start crossing Porto old town, and across the Don Luis Bridge, design and planed by Gustave Eiffel. Just after the Iron bridge the cellars of the famous Porto Wine, please remind that you are cycling, but do not forget a wine tasting sample…

Almost all the way to Espinho will follow a cycling path near the coastline. Crossing numerous small beaches. Praia de Valadares, Francelos and Miramar are good spots to take a bath and enjoy the sun. Praia de Miramar worth a stop to visit a small chapel by the sea, just off the waves, the Church of Senhor da Pedra.

The day ends at Espinho or Esmoriz (Comfort & Budget), another excellent spot by the sea with plenty to do and experience…

Accommodation: Standard or Superior

Meals: –

DAY 6 - CYCLE ESPINHO TO AVEIRO (59km)

An easy and enjoyable day by the sea, riding flat. Pine forest trees and the Ria the Aveiro are sceneries that make the day prior to get to Aveiro. The river Vouga Delta (Ria de Aveiro) was formed from de XVth century, with the sea retreat.

Nowadays it’s a favourite place to catch shellfish, and to enjoy water sports. The dune system of São Jacinto is a Natural reserve. Stop and walks along the beach in the sea front are excellent and birds lover are in a good area to watch wildlife. Is at São Jacinto that you catch the ferry to Aveiro.

Aveiro is just a few minutes away with canals and “gondulas” in one authetic Venice stile.

Accommodation: Standard or Superior

Meals: –

DAY 7 - TOUR END

We hope that these days away from the busy life have been unforgettable moments and experiences in a Portugal different from what you knew before…

The tour ends with the Check Out of the Hotel. f you have free time, you can request the luggage storre and return to wander in Aveiro, before. Take a Moliceiro boat tour!!

One transfer will bring you back to Porto. Accommodation: – Meals: –

INCLUSIONS

INCLUDED

Daily breakfast
Private ensuite rooms on a twin share basis
Luggage transfers from hotel to hotel
Personal guide book and Cycling day sheets
Gps day-by-day tracks for use in Gps device or SmartPhone.
Hybrid/Trekking Bike include in the Price
Helmet, Lock, Repair Kit, Pump and handlebar bag
1st Day Briefing
Transfer from Porto to Viana do Castelo Included
Trasnfer from Aveiro to Porto (airport) Included

Travel Insurance
24/7 Phone support assistance

EXCLUDED

Transfer from Airport to Hotel in Porto
Gps device
Any tourist tax payable at Hotels

OPTIONAL INCLUSIONS

Transfer from Airport to Hotel in Porto
Single Room
E-Bike
Support van during all tour
Extra nights before, after or during the tour
Gps device

BIKE INFORMATION

Hibrid Bike

During the the trip you will be provide with the Hybrid/Trekking bike Kross Trans 7 or similar.

Frame	Aluminum
Suspension	Hardtail, 63mm
Wheels	700c Aluminum
Drivetrain	3 × 8
Groupset	Deore, Shimano
Brakes	Hydraulic Disc

DATES & PRICES 2024

Starting

Any day of the week and year

Ending

Avaiability

Available Upon request

Prices from

EUR €1160

ACCOMMODATION

Standard Hotels & Country Houses

Standard hotels offer typical hotel amenities and services. They provide private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, comfortable beds, and basic amenities such as Wi-Fi, TV, and room service.

Country houses, also known as "casas rurales" in Spanish, offer a more rustic and traditional experience. They are often found in smaller villages and rural areas along the Camino.

Superior Collection & Historic Hotels

We have selected 4 and 5-star hotels, boutique guesthouses, relaxing country homes and stunning heritage ‘Parador’ hotels so you can feel pampered. Rest assured when you select Superior Collection, you will enjoy the full experience of our best hotels and top guesthouses when and where this option is available,

There are several historic hotels and inns along the route that offer travelers a unique and memorable experience. These establishments often have a rich history and character, making them more than just a place to stay.

ON THE TRAIL

Terrain: The terrain is relatively gentle, and you'll pass through scenic countryside, charming villages, and forests. Most will be following cycling lanes, or small roads and forest traks. the terrain is more hilly in Galicia while reaching the Portuguese camino in Redondela and onward.

Food and Cuisine: You'll have the opportunity to enjoy the delicious Spanish cuisine, including fresh seafood, pulpo a la gallega (octopus), and other regional dishes. Don't forget to try the local Albariño wine.

Waymarking: The route is well-marked with yellow arrows and scallop shell symbols, making it easy to navigate. When avoiding non cycling areas the booklet and gps track given have all the information.

MAP

Elevation

REVIEWS

James Fair

This was a fantastic trip with lots of free time to explore the cities on your own. The local transport used was extremely good and the included activities, particularly the tapas and the Camino walk, were excellent.

14 Oct 2019

Susan and Dave

A great trip, with a wonderful group of fellow travellers. Incredibly well lead by Helder. Enabled an opportunity to get to know a little about Spain and to appreciate the diverse nature and history of the country.

15 Jun 2019