Northern Portugal is a stunning cycling holiday destination in Europe. You have already seen other underexposed places pass by us such as Croatia, Romania but also Scotland and the Peak District in England. There are plenty of other places like this that remain underexposed in the violence of central Europe's well-known mountain ranges. Therefore, a quick look at Portugal. Very specifically to the Douro region in the north. This region is known for its beautiful river, along which the vineyards work their way up. But also because of its towns, other beauty and, especially in spring and autumn, a favourable Mediterranean climate! We picked out a few beautiful spots. And remember: this is UNESCO world heritage! Northern Portugal is an underexposed cycling destination in Europe.
From Porto to the Spanish border
The region stretches across the entire breadth of the Portuguese mainland. For a reminder, Portugal also has a few islands, including the Azores and flower island of Madeira. Not bad as a cycling destination either. For many (including us), Porto is the starting point to explore the region. The first ride you can do is to ride along the river for a bit already. It's best to ride through the Parque Das Serras Do Porto first, and then take the route along the river back into town. You'll get to know the versatility of this area right away. With a start at sea level, you'll be at 400 metres altitude in no time, picking up some 1,600 altimeters in almost 90 kilometres. Don't forget the views!
Down the river
Further along the Douro River, the real work begins. There it becomes clear that you are slowly moving into the mountains. Bit by bit you climb to a higher altitude and meanwhile the climbs themselves become of a different level. For example, the climb to Castelo where you cover 330 altimeters in 3.3 kilometres. With peaks of 15 to 20%, this does the Ardennes fade away. We choose to start at a local pastry bakery. Always good. From there, you drive along the river and back through the beautiful hills that lie on the north side of the river. Do screw the good legs under your body, because if you've had too much on the Port the night before, you're literally going to suffer here. If you are fit though, a delicious local piece of pastel de nata awaits you at the line!
Further down the river
The further you go along the river, the more beautiful and dramatic it seems to become. Because the hills along the river are quite steep, you can also see that the (almost typical) bridges here are an architectural feat. Over the river here, you also drive up and down, right through the vineyards. This tour leads you straight into the hills and when you get to Pinhão, you have to go up another steep calf bite. At over 10% average, this is another typical example of a 'Portuguese hill - douro style'. Finally, then, the last part is rolling along the river. It is pure enjoyment, also in terms of weather and, of course, that view again. Northern Portugal is an underexposed cycling destination in Europe and the Douro Valley proves it time and again.
