Authentic, pure and indescribably beautiful
Portugal. It is the land of azure coastlines, rugged cliffs and idyllic coves. But also the country where the hills are covered with vineyards. It is the land of Port and Vinho Verde, of sweet Pastéis de Nata and grilled sardines. The land where the melancholic sounds of fado echo in the narrow streets, and where azulejos add colour to the facades.
Portugal is not yet a very popular cycling destination, although the country has beautiful roads. Just when the country still has so many quiet places - away from mass tourism - you shouldn't put off a visit for too long. Experience the real authentic Portugal, where old traditions live on and warm hospitality prevails. The country has some well-known tourist attractions, but the interior still feels undiscovered and authentic; the perfect destination for cyclists who want to discover a new culture and beautiful scenery.
Do you mainly want to ride long distances over rolling terrain? Or do you mainly want to climb and it just can't be long and tough enough for you? Portugal has a varied landscape. There are almost flat areas (like much of Alentejo, the region above the Algarve), but also rugged areas with vast mountain ranges. Climbing enthusiasts are best off in northern and central Portugal, or in the southern Algarve region.
Serra da Estrela - Central Portugal
The Serra da Estrela is the highest mountain range in mainland Portugal. The area lies in Central Portugal, and stretches across the districts of Guarda and Castelo Branco. Its most famous peak is the Torre. This is the highest paved climb in Portugal (at 1993 metres) and a classic in the Volta a Portugal. You can take several routes to the summit, for example from Covilhã or Seia. This makes it fun to spend some time around this summit. Besides the Torre, there are many other beautiful climbs in this region, such as those to Monte do Colcurinho or Penhas Douradas.
Serra de Monchique - Algarve
The west side of the Algarve is a top destination for cyclists. In the Serra de Monchique you will find plenty of beautiful climbs, the highlight being the Alto da Foía (902m). You can climb this via the wider motorway or - if you are feeling adventurous - via the narrower paths that are actually best suited on a gravel bike.
Madeira
For the real climbers, there is Madeira. This Portuguese island is breathtakingly beautiful and offers fantastic routes. It is the destination for climbing enthusiasts, as there is almost no flat road to be found. Right from the coast, the roads meander into rugged nature. It is around 15 to 25 degrees all year round, so as far as weather is concerned, you are always in the right place.
Peneda-Gerês National Park - northern Portugal
Peneda-Gerês National Park, located in the north-west of Portugal, is the country's only official national park. The park covers a rugged and mountainous area with deep valleys, clear rivers and a mix of dense forests and open rocky landscapes. Thanks to the many forest trails, this destination is very popular among mountain bikers. There are several trails for different levels. You can also do some nice gravelling here, but be prepared that trails can be technical.
Douro valley - northern Portugal
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Douro Valley is known for its many vineyards. The area offers a mix of rolling gravel roads, tough climbs and winding paths along the famous Douro River. Although you will find can also do great cycling, you can really explore the most beautiful spots on a gravel bike. And of course this is the best destination to enjoy a glass of local port or wine afterwards!
Alentejo
In the region Alentejo, located above the Algarve and below Central Portugal and Lisbon region, is vast. Dry, dusty gravel paths over relatively flat terrain invite you to tear up the gravel really hard. Want to see a lot of an area, cover a lot of kilometres and discover an authentic part of Portugal where tourism is still scarce? Then go on a gravel adventure in Alentejo.
Best travel period: Portugal has different climate zones, so the best time to travel depends on the region you want to visit. In general, the spring and autumn ideal for a cycling holiday, as temperatures are pleasant and crowds are less than in summer. Prefer travelling in summer anyway? Then avoid the Alentejo region, where it can get very hot. Coastal areas, mountain areas or the north of Portugal are then finer destinations. Madeira is also a fine summer destination because of its mild climate.
Accessibility: Of course, you can discover most of the country by car (or really go on an adventure and go bikepacking!). Of course, you can also rent a car at the airport. Lisbon, Porto and Faro and Madeira have major airports with direct flights to and from the Netherlands.
Portugal is increasingly developing as a cycling-friendly destination, especially in well-known cycling regions. Most cycling hotels can be found in the Algarve, Lisbon region, northern Portugal (Douro & Minho) and Madeira. In less touristy areas, dedicated cycling hotels are rarer, but more and more accommodation caters for cyclists. Thus, in most places you will be able to take your bike with you to the hotel room or there will be a secure storage area. Check with the hotel well in advance.
Bike rental is also well organised in the well-known cycling areas. As a result, you don't necessarily need to bring your own bike. Handy when you want to travel by plane and prefer not to bring your own bike.
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