Follow scenic forest and ocean-side paths as you cycle the Atlantic coast of Portugal
Blessed with sun-kissed beaches, colourful fishing villages, and scenic routes, the Atlantic coast of Portugal offers fantastic cycling holiday opportunities. This tour starts in Porto, a Unesco World Heritage city, and the itinerary follows relatively easy flat or rolling cycling trails through a variety of landscapes and along the stunning coastline, with stops in different villages and towns for a full immersion in the relaxed Portuguese way of life. Highlights include a scenic ride through the dunes of the São Jacinto Natural Reserve and an overnight stay in the picture-perfect fortified village of Óbidos. After a week of cycling along some of the best coastline in Portugal, enjoy the delights of Lisbon, one of the most charming capital cities in the world.
Did you know you can travel by train to this trip? Find out more here
Highlights
Cycle past sandy beaches and fishing villages along Portugal’s Atlantic coast
Begin in historic Porto, raising a glass together in a traditional port wine cellar
Ride a scenic trail through the untouched dunes of São Jacinto Natural Reserve
Stay in white-washed Óbidos, one of Europe’s best preserved medieval towns
Key Information
Accommodation: 1 Premium night (hotels), 5 Superior nights (hotels), 1 Classic nights (hotels)
Five days cycling with partial vehicle support (limited seats)
Group normally 6 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
We work hard to create trips that have a positive impact on the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Learn more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice hereand find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.
Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:
People
How this trip helps improve life for local communities.
Local guides keep you well informed about local traditions and cultural-social sensitivities.
This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally owned hotels, restaurants, and other enterprises, and by championing locally produced food wherever possible.
How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.
By travelling in a small group we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
We work with our partners on the ground to proactively reduce waste; this includes eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles by providing refills for re–usable bottles.
Reusable plates and cutlery are used on picnics.
With our partners, Rewilding Apennines, we rewild 100 square meters (1,075 sqft) of land per passenger who travels with us.
On this Porto to Lisbon ride we are also supporting the reforestation of the 800 year old Pinha de Leiria pine forest which was 80% burned during the huge forest fires in 2017 (11,000 hectares).
Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here, including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels with us.
Planet
How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.
Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
Our local partner supports the initiatives of “Montis”, the Association for Nature Management and Conservation. The goal of this association is to bring biodiversity value to the areas it manages.
Cycling trips like this have very little detrimental impact on the environment and the locals, as it is a quiet, low impact activity requiring comparatively few resources to support.
Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.
Tips for sustainable travel on this trip
Leave no trace: we do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
Plastic waste reduction: please bring a re–usable water bottle on this trip, also consider avoiding single-use hotel toiletries, which generate a large amount of plastic waste.
Itinerary
Porto
Lisbon
Fly to Porto; afternoon orientation tour and guided wine tasting at a Port wine cellar
Those arriving on the group flight will be met by the tour leader at the airport and transferred to the start hotel by private minibus. Depending on the time of arrival of the flight, your leader will arrange a short orientation tour in the historic centre. Porto is a UNESCO World Heritage city and a real historic jewel with more than 150 listed monuments. There is plenty to see and for this reason we recommend travelling a day earlier if you are interested in exploring more of its vibrant centre. Before dinner, we will enjoy a guided visit and wine tasting at a traditional Port wine cellar.
Accommodation: Neya Hotel (or similar)
Day
1
Start Porto; afternoon orientation tour and guided wine tasting at a port wine cellar
Welcome meeting at 3.30pm in the reception of the start hotel before your guide leads the group on an orientation walk through the historic centre of the city. Porto is an Unesco World Heritage city and a real historic jewel with more than 150 listed monuments. There is plenty to see and for this reason we recommend travelling a day earlier if you are interested in exploring more of the vibrant centre. Before dinner, we will enjoy a guided visit and wine tasting at a traditional port wine cellar. Overnight in Porto.
Accommodation: Neya Hotel (or similar)
Day
2
Gentle coastal ride to historic Ovar via the lively seaside town of Furadouro
This morning we leave the city bustle behind and immerse ourselves in the more peaceful atmosphere of the Atlantic shore. Starting from Porto, we ride along the Douro River until its estuary. We then follow the coast, mostly on cycling paths, enjoying inspiring views of beautiful sandy beaches along the way. During this ride there will be opportunities to stop for drinks or snacks in traditional Portuguese cafes, right by the Atlantic Ocean. After following a cycling path that crosses a pine tree forest, we reach lively Furadouro, a seaside town renowned for excellent fish. Enjoy free time for a swim (seasonal), before riding to historic Ovar. The pretty town is best-known for the glazed tiles known as azulejos, which adorn many of the local houses in the old part of the town.
Route: After leaving Porto, mostly flat riding along cycle paths until Furadouro region, then short ride to Ovar with slight climb. Terrain: 80% paved cycle paths, 20% paved roads.
Accommodation: Aqua Hotel (or similar)
Distance covered: 30mi (48km)
Ascent: 981ft (299m)
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
3
Cycle to Mira via the protected natural reserve of the São Jacinto dunes; en route visit to the pretty coastal town of Costa Nova
Today’s ride follows the Aveiro lagoon and the nature reserve of São Jacinto, one of Europe’s last remaining untouched coastal marshland and habitat of numerous bird species. We pedal through a scenery of sandy beaches, marshland and rolling dunes peppered with grasses and creepers. This is home to a plethora of birds, insects, small animals and unusual flowers and plants. After a short transfer by ferry, we leave the lagoon and continue cycling to the small town of Costa Nova, a picturesque village characterised by multi-coloured striped houses. Our ride ends in the seaside town of Mira, known for its long beach rated as one of the best in Portugal. Overnight in Mira.
Route: Flat day starting with cycling to São Jacinto, ferry crossing from São Jacinto to Aveiro. Slight climb for bridge crossing, continue flat to Mira. Terrain: 65% paved cycle paths, including 0.6mi (1km) of dirt road, 35% paved roads.
Accommodation: Maçarico Beach Hotel (or similar)
Distance covered: 35mi (57km)
Ascent: 610ft (186m)
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
4
Follow the Portuguese Silver Coast and ride to Figueira da Foz
Today’s ride takes us through one of the biggest dune systems in the area covered in pine tree forest. The route is mainly flat or rolling and the roads are peaceful making the cycling very pleasant. There is a final short but relatively steep climb up the beautiful Serra da Boa Viagem before reaching the lively town of Figueira da Foz. The rest of the day is free to explore the town of Figueira da Foz and its extensive beach nicknamed Rainha das Praias (Queen of Beaches). There are lots of lovely cafes and bars in which you can enjoy a pre-dinner drink, and some excellent restaurants. Overnight in Figueira da Foz.
Route: Mostly flat ride along cycle paths and secondary roads to Quiaios, short, steep climb to Serra da Boa Viagem. Descent and flat ride to Figueira da Foz. Terrain: 55% paved cycle paths, including 2mi (3km) of dirt road, 45% paved roads.
Accommodation: Universal Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Distance covered: 39mi (63km)
Ascent: 1,690ft (515m)
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
5
Forest and coastal ride to the village of São Pedro de Moel; free time to relax by the beach or explore the town
Today we enter the Portuguese Silver Coast and ride a cycleway that follows the Estrada Atlântica (Atlantic Road). We’ll be riding mainly through pastoral land and the remains of vast pine forest, the Pinhal de Leiria (Leiria Pine Forest), which was originally planted in the 15th century to provide timber for the construction of the Portuguese shipbuilding industry during the Portuguese Discoveries. Unfortunately, vast areas of the forest were destroyed in 2017 by one of the fiercest forest fires in a century. Little more than 3,700 acres (1,500ha) remain from a total of 27,200 acres (11,000ha). Although maritime pine is considered a fast-growing tree, it will take many more years for the forest to regenerate. Exodus is supporting the regeneration of the forests, working with local schools and communities to replant trees.
On our exit from the forest, we take a coastal route in the afternoon to reach the picturesque town of São Pedro de Moel and enjoy time to relax at the beach or at the hotel with a sea view. Overnight in São Pedro do Moel.
Route: Undulating ride on backroads to the Atlantic Road Cyclepath. Continue along the undulating route to São Pedro de Moel on the cycle path. Terrain: 70% paved cycle paths, 30% paved roads.
Accommodation: Mar & Sol Hotel (or similar)
Distance covered: 39mi (62km)
Ascent: 1,132ft (345m)
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
6
Cycle to Nazaré, where some of the highest waves in the world are recorded annually; pedal to Óbidos, a stunning fortified medieval village
This morning you can opt to either transfer or cycle (reducing approximately 12mi/20km to today’s ride if taking the transfer) to Nazaré, one of the most famous fishing towns in Portugal. Here fisherwomen still wear seven colourful layers of skirts, as well as wooden clogs and a traditional black headscarf. There will be the opportunity to enjoy some spectacular ocean views from the popular panoramic terrace. It was in Nazaré’s Praia Norte that the world record for the largest wave ever surfed was set, an estimated 86ft (26.2m) high. From Nazaré we ride all the way to Óbidos, a small fortified town, which resembles a medieval film set. It has been carefully preserved by its inhabitants who take real pride in maintaining the architectural image of the village characterised by narrow winding streets and white-washed houses. Overnight in Óbidos.
Route: Undulating ride to Sítio da Nazaré followed by a descent to Nazaré beach; after lunch a series of short, steep climbs followed by similar descents before arriving at Óbidos. Terrain: 60% paved cycle paths, 30% paved roads.
Accommodation: Josefa D’Óbidos Hotel or The Literary Man (or similar)
Distance covered: 40mi (64km)
Ascent: 2,126ft (648m)
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
7
Morning in Óbidos; private transfer to Lisbon and orientation walk of historic centre
The morning is free for further exploration of Óbidos and try not to leave town without trying the famous drink from the region, ginjinha, a sour cherry liqueur served in a small edible chocolate cup. Late morning we transfer (approximately one hour) to the great capital city of Lisbon. Enjoy free time in the afternoon and later we have an orientation walk through the historic centre, observing beautiful architecture. Why not find a location after dinner to sample the traditional Fado music made famous from Lisbon? Overnight in Lisbon.
Accommodation: Marquês de Pombal (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast
Fly to London
Day
8
End Lisbon
This morning marks the final breakfast of the adventure; an excellent opportunity to reflect on some of the many wonderful experiences you’ve enjoyed during this cycling holiday in Portugal. If you’ve still got the appetite for a bit more exploration, speak to your sales representative to book further nights in our Lisbon hotel and discover this culturally rich capital a little more.
Meals included: Breakfast
Essential Info
Is this trip for you?
This trip is rated Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings, please visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
Average daily distance is 34mi (55km); number of days cycling is five. We use mainly cycle paths and quiet roads where possible. Occasionally we will cross or ride along some busier roads. The first three rides are shorter, mainly flat and easy and on Day 4 the ride is longer and ends with a moderately challenging hill. The ride on Day 6 has the most ascent as the terrain changes, but the pace will be slow, and with plenty of coffee and cake stops.
A support vehicle (with limited seats) will follow the group for approximately 25 percent of the cycling (at points known to be more challenging). For the rest of the time, the support driver will undertake other tasks to ensure the group’s comfort and safety, for example, delivering luggage to the next hotel prior to the group’s arrival.
The trip requires a reasonably good level of fitness as some of the rides are on rolling routes with occasional steep ascents for up to 2.5mi (4km). The maximum ascent is 1,640ft (500m) on Day 6 (the final cycling day). We strongly encourage you to request an electric bike prior to departure (available for a supplement) if you have limited cycling experience. This would improve your experience and ensure the trip is led at a comfortable pace for everyone in the group.
Following a review of all our trips we have categorised this trip as generally not suitable for persons of reduced mobility. However if you are a regular traveller on such trips, please contact customer services to discuss the trip and your personal condition.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Neya Hotels Porto, R. de Monchique 35 a 41, 4050-394 Porto Phone: +351 21 841 3051 Recommended arrival time: The welcome meeting and main briefing will be held at 330pm in the reception of the start hotel. Airport: Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 25 minutes’ drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
You can reach the start hotel relatively easily by taxi. A cab from the airport costs €20-€30. For more information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to Lisbon Airport (LIS) that’s scheduled to align with a flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Porto Location end: Lisbon
Vaccinations and Health
Portugal
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus and rabies. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Passport
Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.
Visa
Portugal
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Portugal. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
A typical hotel breakfast consists of toast/bread with jam, or honey, cheese and ham, served with coffee, tea, milk, orange juice, fruit, cake and yoghurt. Eggs are usually available and there are frequently other cooked options; the breakfasts on this trip are always plentiful and perfect to set us up for a day of cycling.
Portuguese people are very proud of their cuisine, and the deliciously fresh seafood is a real highlight. You will find fresh fish on most menus, usually sardines, sea bream, hake, sea bass and sole, cooked in a variety of ways.
Bacalhau (cured codfish) is a national dish although it can vary depending on the region – there are up to 365 recipes to cook it. Caldo verde (green soup) is made with potatoes, olive oil and salt, sometimes with garlic and onion, and is typical in the northern region of Portugal.
For meat lovers, the barrosã meat (steak) is often served grilled and roasted just to its naturally delicious flavour. Francesinha is an iconic dish originating from Porto and involves layers of different meats (usually beef, ham, grilled pork, linguiça [smoke-cured pork sausage] and sausage), between two slices of bread, covered by melted cheese and immersed in a spicy beer and tomato sauce, often topped with a fried egg and surrounded by chips. It is not for the faint-hearted.
To drink you will find plenty of the local Sagres and Superbock beer. Vinho verde is available from the supermarket and directly from the producers. It is a young, medium-strength white wine with an almost carbonated quality. Port needs no introduction and a glass (or two) of the fortified wine will generally follow a hearty Portuguese meal.
There are an incredible amount of different desserts available and if you have a sweet tooth it will be possible to try a different one each day! Local favourites include bolo de bolacha (cookie cake), leite creme (cream eggs and sugar), pao de lo (sponge cake made with lots of eggs), arroz doce (a traditional rice pudding) and of course, pastel de nata, which you will find at most cafes on your route.
Weather
Porto and Lisbon have a temperate maritime climate with a strong Mediterranean influence. The climate here is long, warm summers and mild winters, with most rain falling in the winter months, but possible in all other months. Seasons are marked, with pleasant temperatures in the spring, in the summer, and in the autumn. Heatwaves can push up temperatures between mid-June and September.
Coastal areas of Portugal can be known to be quite windy, but we are fortunate that this tends to be from north to south; which gives us an extra push while cycling.
Four-star hotels, on the coast or in the city
We use a selection of four-star hotels, chosen for their location, comfort and character. Some have a swimming pool or are directly on the coast with exceptional sea views.
The hotels typically used are on the day-to-day itinerary. However, below are a few of the notable accommodations on this trip.
Porto: Neya Hotel (night 1)
Begin this cycling adventure in a converted convent on the banks of the Douro River. Many of the original features were preserved during the restoration, plus there are plenty of modern conveniences, including a day spa and restaurant serving traditional Portuguese cuisine. Gather the group and raise a glass together at the Último rooftop bar with a view of the Douro.
Figueira da Foz: Universal Boutique Hotel (night 4)
Stay just one block from the beach at this stylish four-star hotel in the trendy Bairro Novo area of Figueira da Foz. There are 29 themed rooms and each floor of the hotel showcases a different aspect of a city once called the Queen of the Beaches of Portugal. When it’s time to relax, head to the sophisticated lounge bar or there are plenty of restaurants, cafes and bars to try nearby.
São Pedro do Moel: Mar & Sol Hotel (night 5)
Enjoy a spot right by the North Atlantic Ocean with a stay at this four-star hotel. Some of the best sea views are found at the restaurant, which has floor-to-ceiling windows for panoramic vistas. The hotel also has a spa offering plenty of treatments and massages, plus a rooftop deck with sun loungers and more sea views.
Excellent trip despite hurricane-like weather. Our team – Dinish, Theresa and Lionel kept everything moving along safely and timely and kept us motivated and encouraged in spite of weather. They worked together navigating difficult conditions and unexpected events – fallen trees on path. It was an adventure that I won’t soon forget!
Most Inspirational Moment
Riding together in storms and seeing Lionel ahead waiting to offer assistance.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Excellent- knowledgeable and passionate about his country and his work.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Check weather before leaving and pack enough gear to be ready. Also, more hilly than I expected so consider e-bike if uncertain. You won’t be sorry!
Dr David Frank Burrows
Reviewed October 2024
Weather-challenged but enjoyable week
Another excellent holiday that could have been a real slog in the wet and windy weather but was turned around by the great Exodus support team. The overall planning of the trip was first-rate and its execution outstanding. The beautiful countryside, wonderful scenery and fascinating history was bought to life during our cycling adventure. Great hotels, restaurants and coffee shops ensured we stayed fit and healthy despite often being very damp and windswept!
Most Inspirational Moment
Watching the enormous Atlantic rollers after the overnight storm.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Dinis was such a good leader I have nominated him for the leader award.
Advice for Potential Travellers
If cycling in the rain don't bother wearing socks!
Sigrid Grantham
Reviewed October 2024
Fabulously diverse and adventurous cycling in magical Portugal
Sunshine, hurricane, autumn rain, glorious food, great company and the most wonderful guides. What else could one wish for in this diverse, friendly and scenically beautiful country. And the bikes were first class as well!
Most Inspirational Moment
It would have to be the delightful birthday cake and celebration for my “big”one.
Thoughts on Group Leader
One could not have wished for a better guide. Always smiling, energetic, well informed, sporty and supportive of his team. Teresa is a star and we could not have been in better hands either with our driver/ mechanic/ man of all talents Leonel!
Advice for Potential Travellers
Ask for a different hotel in Obidos. “The literature man “ doesn’t cut the mustard!
Fraser Laird
Reviewed October 2024
Challenging but fun week
Good week, well organised and with a wonderful group of people. Enjoyed all the hotels and the food, especially the picnics. Found the rainy days and strong headwind very challenging but really enjoyed the sunny days. Be prepared for all weathers. There were plenty of stops to catch up as I was going at a slower pace than the fitter cyclists and e-bikers. Great to see round Porto and Lisbon too.
Most Inspirational Moment
Being peaceful in the beautiful scenery and with some dramatic Atlantic skies
Thoughts on Group Leader
Group leader Dinis was excellent as were the support team of Leonel and Filipe. They were all very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Consider an e-bike if you think the ascents might be a challenge for you. You can keep it on a low level and still get some exercise. I changed to an e-bike for the last day as my knees were aching and I really enjoyed the day.
Sean Riley
Reviewed October 2024
Simply Perfect
This was a perfect way to meet new people (you guys rock by the way) and see a new country. The tour was expertly organized and the guides made the experience all the better. While there was some “cycling” to be done the pace was manageable and we still got time to relax and do a little scouting at each of our destinations in the afternoon. There were regular stops during the cycle which allowed us the opportunity to catch our breath and have a snack. At each stop we also got to see a little more of the area or interact with some of the locals. The logistics were all perfectly handled and each nights accommodation was great. The food was also really good and most of the restaurants we went to were excellent with the exception of maybe 2, however these in no way detracted from the tour getting a full 5 stars! If I could take this group and these guides to other parts of the world for similar tours I would be signing up immediately.
Most Inspirational Moment
Nazarè; the stripped houses in Mira (Sorry Dave 😁 ); the stunning forests and estuaries we cycled through; the breath taking views from the cliffs and making it up some of those hills. Also being part of the group that just stoutly carried on through the rain and wind which was apparently very unusual for this tour.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Dinis was the perfect group leader. He was attentive to everyone taking part. He diligently checked our bikes each day made sure that we had the best experience. The information he provided along the way was interesting and he was always ready to make suggestions of what we should do to experience a little more of Portugal when we got to our destination. He was easy to talk to and a pleasure to have around.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Prepare a little before you get there or just take the e-bike. There is so much to see and enjoy on the tour that it would be horrible to miss out because of too little preparation (this includes some wet weather gear, good cycle shorts as well as training).
Janine Traini
Reviewed September 2024
Exceeded Expectations
The trip followed the beautiful coastal route, the hotels were excellent and the restaurants and food was great. The guides were perfect: considerate, helpful, fun, informative and extremely attentive to all of our needs. There was variety in the route as well, we rode through villages, along the coast, through forests, and through marshes. Like minded people tend to do this tour so many friendships were made along the way. I opted for the electric bike and never regretted the choice – I was able to select how much effort I wished to make and was therefore not intimidated by the climbs and was able to enjoy the scenery.
Most Inspirational Moment
The beauty of the coastal section from Nazarè village
Thoughts on Group Leader
Dinis was informative, attentive, interesting helpful, encouraging, fun, just the perfect leader.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Don't be shy to book the electric bike, a few of the cyclists in our group opted to change halfway through and loved how it enhanced their experience.
Jane Mitchell
Reviewed September 2024
Great trip - weather took its toll
Overall this is an amazing trip which is very scenic and on a lot of cycle paths. We were unlucky to get rain and a head wind for the first few days which made it more difficult. The hotels were great and the other people in my group were good company and supportive. Excellent organisation and support from three guides. I treated myself to an e-bike on the last day as my legs were tired.
Most Inspirational Moment
Seeing people older than me overtaking the ebikes! There were some very fit people in my group
Thoughts on Group Leader
Dinis is so mature for his age. He is funny helpful and kind. Lionel was also really supportive and encouraging. Philip worked very hard looking after the the van and bikes. I couldn’t have wished for a better team.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take a properly waterproof coat! Also on bad weather days a dry top or warm jacket In the van to put on at lunch stops as I got cold when I was soaked to the skin. I trained on a road bike but these bikes were a lot heavier on the hills..
Curtis Wierenga
Reviewed September 2024
Great trip
This is a wonderful trip! So many great sights from the two cities of Porto and Lisbon and all of the beautiful scenery in between! The coast is so scenic with the rugged cliffs and blue ocean
Most Inspirational Moment
The downhill ride into Foz. Coming around the last bend in the road to see the ocean and the city of Foz from above was spectacular
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our group leader was João. He was wonderful
So knowledgeable and patient and professional but most important was his friendliness and sense of humor
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take your time cycling and enjoy the scenery
Catherine McAleavey
Reviewed June 2024
MEO.240609 - June 2024
My first Exodus trip and it will not be the last. In terms of route, hotels, distances covered, cycle paths etc the trip notes are completely accurate. We were an unexpectedly small group of 6 which gelled quickly and had huge fun, with everyone making a real effort. The whole trip was extremely well organised and well thought out. Wonderful coastal scenery and visits to some really lovely small towns and village. I liked the few hours of down time when we arrived at each new hotel.
Most Inspirational Moment
It's difficult to single out just one moment. Some of the restaurants were definitely highlights. The beaches are stunning but we were were warned that the sea was too rough to allow swimming which was a shame.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our group leader Joao Colaco and driver Dinis were a really superb team. They could not have been more helpful - wanting everyone to have the best possible experience of their beautiful country. Joao was a charming, unflappable, well informed, considerate and patient group leader who went out of his way to make sure everyone was having a good experience. Nothing was too much trouble. He was funny and well informed.
Advice for Potential Travellers
If you are in any way concerned about the hills on days 3 and 5, opt for an e bike. I didn't expect to need but was able to switch mid week. A miracle on the hills! Try to add on days in Porto and Lisbon. So worth it.
Robyn Turner
Reviewed June 2024
What a wonderful time with lovely people in a beautiful country
I did this trip in early June. Our route took us through a variety of gorgeous landscapes – cliffs overlooking the ocean, small towns with roosters crowing, a medieval town encircled by fortified walls, beach towns painted bright colors, pine forests, sand dunes, and marshes. I believe there’s no better way to appreciate that kind of scenery than by traveling on a bike.
We were a group of 16 guests – Americans, Britons, and Canadians – and three Portuguese guides. I traveled to Portugal alone and had a roommate assigned to me. She was lovely, and, really, all of us hit it off. I think this kind of trip attracts like-minded people, and the tour leader, Ruben, told us at our initial briefing in Porto that many of us would become friends. He was right.
The first night, Ruben led us on a walking tour to a port tasting. Afterwards, the group split in half and went to two different restaurants Ruben had recommended. After that, most of us had our dinners together till the end of the bike tour. The food was always great, thanks to Ruben’s recommendations. He always sent us to places with excellent hospitality.
All three of our guides were highly professional – well-prepared, helpful, supportive, friendly, accommodating, flexible, and organized. They kept us informed, entertained, hydrated, and roughly on-time. Every briefing was clear and succinct. We understood where we’d be riding the next day, what time we’d leave, and roughly what time we’d arrive at the next hotel. Ruben was a font of information about Portuguese history, culture, flora and fauna. He held forth on topics ranging from Portuguese royalty to the efforts of environmental activists following the devastating forest fires of 2017. Margarida was a strong cyclist and reliable sweeper, and clearly cared deeply that everyone had what they needed and enjoyed themselves. José drove the van with the bike trailer and reliably had our bags waiting for us in the lobby each time we arrived at a new destination. Every time we saw him he was smiling. They prepared healthy and delicious picnic lunches for us on a couple of occasions, and it was obvious they’d put a lot of thought into them.
Anytime there was a problem, such as a mechanical issue, our guides were equipped to handle it. One day, during a coffee break in Nazaré – we had a coffee break most mornings, which I loved – I watched Ruben fix the electrical connection on another guest’s e-bike after they had taken a small spill. I have a bad knee, so I requested an e-bike from the start. A few others decided along the way to switch to one. When we started in Porto, there were four e-bikes out of 16. By the time we got to Óbidos, I think there were 10 e-bikes. Portugal A2Z, which is contracted by Exodus to run this tour, has its headquarters along the tour route, so I guess that made it easy enough for our guides to switch out the bikes overnight on request.
Overall, this tour was everything I expected after reading the itinerary, trip notes, and reviews on the Exodus website. I found the price reasonable, the guides excellent, the scenery stunning, and the hotels clean and comfortable. I will always remember how much fun I had on this trip and the great people I met. I definitely plan to book with Exodus in the future.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Top notch - knowledgeable, friendly, organized, versatile.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Exodus gives this trip an activity rating of 2 on its website. That was probably accurate for me, and I thought the pace was good with an e-bike. But I do think I would rate the activity level a bit higher than that for anyone using a standard bike, based on comments I heard from some of the other riders. Everyone on this trip was in pretty good shape, but the Porto-to-Óbidos bike route can be quite hilly at times, and we rode as much as 40 miles some days. Whether you choose an electric or standard bike, definitely get some long rides in before you do this trip. Some of my fellow riders complained of saddle soreness, but I was fine.
Optional Single Supplement+396 € Available upon Request
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
Land Only Trip PriceUsually 1 854 €Now 1 765 €Saving 89 €Usually 1 854 €Now Saving 89 €
Book with 441 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+420 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip PriceUsually 1 974 €Now 1 880 €Saving 94 €Usually 1 974 €Now Saving 94 €
Book with 470 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+420 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip PriceUsually 1 974 €Now 1 880 €Saving 94 €Usually 1 974 €Now Saving 94 €
Book with 470 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+420 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip PriceUsually 2 394 €Now 2 275 €Saving 119 €Usually 2 394 €Now Saving 119 €
Book with 568 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+420 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
AvailabilityGuaranteed (Limited)
Only 4 spaces left!
Land Only Trip PriceUsually 2 394 €Now 2 275 €Saving 119 €Usually 2 394 €Now Saving 119 €
Book with 568 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+594 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip PriceUsually 2 214 €Now 2 105 €Saving 109 €Usually 2 214 €Now Saving 109 €
Book with 526 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+594 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 215 €
Book with 553 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+594 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip PriceUsually 2 214 €Now 2 105 €Saving 109 €Usually 2 214 €Now Saving 109 €
Book with 526 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+594 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip PriceUsually 2 214 €Now 2 105 €Saving 109 €Usually 2 214 €Now Saving 109 €
Book with 526 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+594 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 215 €
Book with 553 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+594 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip PriceUsually 2 214 €Now 2 105 €Saving 109 €Usually 2 214 €Now Saving 109 €
Book with 526 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+594 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip PriceUsually 2 214 €Now 1 995 €Saving 219 €Usually 2 214 €Now Saving 219 €
Book with 498 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+594 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
AvailabilityGuaranteed (On Request)
Only 4 spaces left!
Land Only Trip Price2 635 €
Book with 658 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+594 €
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 635 €
Book with 658 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+594 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 215 €
Book with 553 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+594 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 215 €
Book with 553 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+594 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price1 975 €
Book with 493 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+420 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price1 975 €
Book with 493 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+420 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price1 855 €
Book with 463 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+420 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 035 €
Book with 508 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+462 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 155 €
Book with 538 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+462 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 155 €
Book with 538 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+462 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 155 €
Book with 538 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+462 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 395 €
Book with 598 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+654 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 395 €
Book with 598 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+654 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 395 €
Book with 598 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+654 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 395 €
Book with 598 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+654 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 395 €
Book with 598 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+654 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 395 €
Book with 598 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+654 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 395 €
Book with 598 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+654 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 395 €
Book with 598 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+654 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 395 €
Book with 598 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+654 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 395 €
Book with 598 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+654 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 395 €
Book with 598 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+654 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 395 €
Book with 598 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+654 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 155 €
Book with 538 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+462 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 155 €
Book with 538 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+462 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price2 035 €
Book with 508 € deposit
Book with 300 € deposit
Optional Single Supplement+462 €
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
*Please note any date & price adjustments will be displayed on the next step of booking. You will be able to revert back to booking without flights if the options aren't suitable for you.
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