Itinerary

Day 1

Lisbon
Start off from Lisbon, an ancient place, which as stories hint was founded by Ulysses and harboured many famous explorers. Baking red tile roofs, fish sold from doorways, windows hung with washing and bird cages and small narrow streets is what the old city, Alfama, is made up of. Lisbon's oldest district, which escaped destruction in 1755, has been inhabited since the 5th century, and today is a maze of streets, overlooked by the battlements of the medieval castle. It is a wonderful place to begin our trip and we take a private guided tour of the city with Rita & Jose, residents of this illustrious place.

Day 2

Atlantic Coast
We transfer out of the bustle of Portugal's capital city to start our cycling journey at the coast. After a quick dip of the toe in the Atlantic, we start cycling through a natural reserve of herons and egrets before heading inland to our impressive ancient castle pousada accommodation for the evening, high on a buff overlooking a pretty town surrounded by rice paddies. Dine in the elegant surroundings, a delicious repaste for our welcome dinner.

Day 3

Country Town
We start the day rolling through green lush scenery, passing farmers and town´s folk attending the local paddy fields. Here the quiet country roads and quaint white villages await us and as we pedal onto a typical Alentejan country town. Staying outside the town in a rural retreat where you can take a soak in the swimming pool or amble down the lane to enjoy the tranquility of evening bird song.

Day 4

Arraiolos
Onwards for a shorter day, we head north making our way through pasture land to the town of Arraiolos. Enjoy this place where for centuries they have perfected the skill of weaving, their woollen cross stitched tapestries and carpets vibrant and intricate pieces of art. Then relax in the restored 16th century pousada convent with its marvellous chapel tile work and take in the scenery with a glass of wine on the large terrace with valley views of grazing cattle and Arraiolos´ walled fortress high above.

Day 5

Évora
A lovely morning start to some cycling as our winding country roads lead us into the Unesco Heritage city of Évora by way of small hidden villages and a rail to trails path. Arrive in Evora, with its twisting cobblestone streets giving hint of its Moorish heritage. Let your imagination run wild as you spy the huge 17th century aquaduct and Roman temple of Diana with its Corinthian columns, you'll only wish you brought your toga! Staying in one of Portugal´s most famous pousadas, the enchanting Loios Convent, you are in Évora´s heart.

Day 6

Évora Rest Day
We commence the day with a guided walking tour of the city. Venture into the chapel of Bones (if you dare!) and see the last remains of the city´s former residents. Then spend the rest of the day enjoying rambling the many museums, churches and boutiques in this bustling place. Try out the tasty local specialities like Alentejo Gaspacho of the area in the quaint cafes and bars lining the plazas and squares and watch the world go by.

Day 7

Market Town
Continuing on, we cycle across the taste-bud tingling Redondo wine region, stopping enroute to tour and taste at a local vineyard. Remember not to over indulge as you still have some cycling to do! A late afternoon cycle brings us to the interesting market town of Estremoz. A most dramatic cityscape, its medieval castle looms over the town's cobbled streets and we make our way up to it to stay the night at this pousada. As the light in the countryside dims, we take our dinner in the great dining room in this most impressive building.

Day 8

Vila Viçosa
It is hard not to stop and stay in this pretty town with its many nice examples of Art Nouveau architecture and tasty tarts but the road awaits and we continue our exploration by journeying onto Vila Viçosa, famous for its elaborate Ducal Palace, home to the last royal family of Portugal. The route takes us into this town's orchard area, its glowing marble quarries and ending in the town´s tranquil tree-lined avenues and quiet plazas. So pretty is it that it was even given by King Afonso IV. as a wedding gift to his bride, Doña Brites. Stay in the elegant monastery pousada with its verdent garden and hidden niche chapels.

Day 9

Monsaraz
A relaxing day through the peaceful area and its tiny villages with their traditional tileworks and Moorish forts. It is an area known for its brilliant coloured ceramics and it will be hard to not want to take some home when you pass the outside stalls with their brillant shades of pottery glazes. Visit a pottery workshop before an arrival at Monsaraz, boasting an awesome hilltop castle and a panoramic vista of the of the Guadiana River which separates Spain from Portugal. Relax here, admiring the sunset over the two countries.

Day 10

Lisbon
After breakfast for those who are keen, we take a short morning cycle ride through the lake reigion to finish our journey with a true sense of accomplishment at the Portugal-Spain border. Look back at the route we´ve travelled together before going back to the hotel for a final coffee and a wave goodbye to this lovely area and each other before transfering back to Lisbon for onward afternoon connections. Boa Viagem!

Extra Information

Inclusions -

4 picnic lunches

Exclusions -

Food and drink as stated

Extras -

This tour is an easy going to moderate level of cycling with distances each day of around 50km. There is a SAG wagon accompanying the group at all times, plus an experienced guide cycling.
The tour can also be customised for groups of 6 or more.
Please contact us directly for more information!