Did you know that Lisbon is not only the capital of Portugal, but that the region surrounding the capital also bears this name? Lisbon region includes not only Lisbon city, but also the surrounding areas such as Sintra, Cascais, Estoril and Setúbal - all of which are known for their own culture, nature and history. Sintra, for instance, is known for its beautiful palaces, such as the colourful Palace of Pena, as well as the Sintra mountains (part of natural park Parque Natural Sintra-Cascais), where beautiful roads wind through the coastal landscape.
As you can hear; this area is not only fun for 'city trippers'. Cyclists can also enjoy themselves here. Ideal, because this region is of course easily accessible because of the airport in Lisbon.
Lisbon city is of course known for its distinctive yellow trams, colourful tiles, and the historic Alfama district with narrow streets and fado music. It is a beautiful, vibrant city for cyclists and non-cyclists alike. While it is fun to cycle through the city centre once (leave a good average time), as a cyclist you would prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle of the city. Then head slightly northwest to be near the beautiful coastal roads. The north side of Lisbon also has beautiful roads. The landscape there is rolling and hilly, with mostly fairly short - but steep - climbs.
The south side of Lisbon city, at the other side of river Tagus, is a lot flatter. But while the north side can be a bit busier, with numerous winding roads and many villages, the north and east sides are also a lot quieter and more expansive.
Although Lisbon is easily accessible and has beautiful surroundings, not many cyclists will yet think of this region as a cycling destination. A shame! Because there are plenty of reasons why a cycling holiday in Lisbon is worth considering.
First, the region is hugely diverse. The roads around Lisbon range from tight asphalt to beautiful gravel lanes. There are areas with hills and tough climbs, almost flat areas... Coastal roads and winding roads through the hills.
With a gravel bike, you can indulge yourself on the many wide gravel lanes through the forests. Especially on the north-west side of Lisbon city, there are plenty of beautiful dirt tracks.
Just north of the city are the wine regions of Alenquer and Arruda dos Vinhos, where rolling hills are covered with vineyards and traditional quintas (wineries). This is the heart of the Lisboa wine region, known for both red and white wines. The roads are quiet and wind through the green landscape, past old windmills and small villages. This area is ideal for those who enjoy longer drives without much traffic.
Further north lies Torres Vedras, a historic town with a mix of vineyards and farmland. This area was once the scene of the Linhas de Torres, a line of defence against Napoleon, and today you cycle past old forts and beautiful valleys.
West of Lisbon lies the Serra de Sintra, a hilly natural area that feels like a fairytale landscape. Dense forests and colourful palaces make this one of Portugal's most special places. Cyclists will enjoy steep climbs here, such as the one to the extraordinary palace Palácio da Pena. A cool gravel climb in this region is the one to the Anta de Adrenunes, a historic granite formation. From the top, you have a great view of the ocean.
On the eastern side of the region, the Tagus (Rio Tejo), which gives the landscape a totally different character. Here you will find open plains with farmland, vast fields and orange groves. The region around Vila Franca de Xirais known for its bullfighting culture and traditional farms (herdade's).
Further upstream, towards Azambuja, the landscape becomes increasingly flat. Here you feel the influence of the neighbouring Alentejo region: a warm, dry landscape with endless views.
The Lisbon region enjoys a temperate Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. Along the coast, the Atlantic Ocean provides a cooling effect, while inland it can heat up considerably in summer.
In spring, temperatures are between 12°C and 22°C. March and April may still have some rainy days (6-12 rainy days per month), but from May onwards it gets drier and drier. This is one of the best periods for cycling, with crisp mornings and pleasant afternoons. The hills around Sintra and the Tagus Valley turn a beautiful green and the flowers are in bloom.
Temperatures on the coast are between 20°C and 28°C, while inland - as in the vineyards around Alenquer - it can rise above the 35°C. In Sintra and Cascais the sea breeze can provide some cooling, but on some days the nortada, a brisk north wind, make cycling conditions challenging. Rain is rare (1-4 rainy days per month), making this a dry but warm time to explore the region.
September is still warm, around 24°C, but then it slowly cools down. The vineyards and forests around Sintra turn red and orange, providing a beautiful backdrop for cycling tours. Rainfall increases (7-12 rainy days per month), especially in November, but September and October often remain dry enough for pleasant cycling days.
Along the coast, temperatures remain mild, between 8°C and 16°C, but it can get cooler in the hills. Rainfall is highest during this period (9-16 rainy days per month), which can make some roads slippery. Although the region has no snow, the higher areas around Sintra and Mafra can be chilly and foggy. However, cycling remains quite possible on dry days, especially along the coast.
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