Northern Portugal is a wonderful cycling holiday destination in Europe. You have already seen other lesser-known places like Croatia, Romania but also Scotland and the Peak District in England. There are still many more places that remain under-represented in the violence of the famous mountain ranges in central Europe. That’s why we take a look at Portugal. Specifically, the Douro region in the north. This region is known for its beautiful river, along which the vineyards work their way up. But also for the towns, the other beauty, and certainly in spring and autumn a favorable Mediterranean climate! We picked out a few beautiful places. And remember: this is UNESCO World heritage! Northern Portugal is an under-explored cycling destination in Europe.
From Porto to the Spanish border
The region extends across the entire width of the Portuguese mainland. Just to remind you: Portugal also has several islands, including the Azores and the island of Madeira. Not a bad starting point for a bike trip. For many (including us), Porto is the starting point for exploring the region. The first ride you can do is to ride along the river for a while. You can then best start by driving through Parque Das Serras Do Porto, then return to the city along the river. You will immediately get a feel for the diversity of this area. With a starting elevation of sea level, you will be at 400 meters in no time and will cover 1600 meters in almost 90 kilometers. Don’t forget the views!
Down the river
Further along the Douro River, the real work begins. It becomes clear that you are gradually climbing up the mountains. Little by little, you climb higher and, in the meantime, the climbs themselves also become more challenging. For example, the climb to Castelo takes 330 meters of elevation gain in 3.3 kilometers. With peaks of 15 to 20%, this makes the climb even more difficult. The Ardennes We choose to start at a local pastry bakery. It’s always good. From there, you drive along the river and back through the beautiful hills that lie on the north side of the river. Make sure you keep your legs in good shape, because if you’ve been sitting too much at the Port the night before, you’ll literally hurt yourself here. If you’re fit, a delicious local piece of pastel de nata awaits you at the finish 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 also see that the (almost typical) bridges here are an architectural masterpiece. You also drive up and down the river here, right through the vineyards. This tour takes you directly up the hills and when you reach Pinhão, you have to tackle another steep climb. With an average of more than 10%, this is yet another typical example of a ‘Portuguese hill – douro style’. Eventually, the final stretch is a gentle descent along the river. It's pure enjoyment, not to mention the weather and, of course, the breathtaking views. Northern Portugal is an under-explored cycling destination in Europe, and the Douro Valley proves that time and again.
Questions & tips
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