CYCLING THE ALENTEJO

8 days from GBP739 to GBP789 including flights
Tripcode: MWA

Countries Visited: Portugal

Ride from the dramatic Atlantic coastline to peaceful rural villages

The Alentejo is separated from the rest of Portugal by the Tagus River and extends to the south where it borders the Algarve. The countryside varies from the open rolling plains of the south to the granite hills that form the border with Spain in the north-east. The character of the region is created by the blossoming colours throughout the year, from the green of the winter to a festival of flowers in the spring and the dry golden heat of the summer that is replaced by the agriculture of autumn. Our cycling takes us through the 'Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park' from the Cercal hills through the undulating scenery of cork trees, old farms and dams to the dunes and lighthouses of the coast. There is an abundance of flora and fauna to discover with over 750 different plant species and 200 varieties of birds whilst cycling along the peaceful traffic-free lanes of one of the most untouched landscapes of Europe.

Itinerary

[detailed itinerary...]

Day 1

Fly to Lisbon; transfer to Vila Nova de Milfontes.

Day 2

Starting from the small village of Colos we cycle through farming communities and oak trees of Cercal before returning to Milfontes.

Day 3

Scenic coastal ride passing the quaint fishing harbour at Lapa das Pombas to the picturesque village of Zambujeira do Mar. We also cycle past the Cabo Sardao lighthouse where we will be able to admire the stork nests on the high and impressive cliffs.

Day 4

Circular route to Odeceixe, an attractive village with narrow streets and cosy squares. From the windmill on the top of the surrounding hills there are stunning views of the region and the River Seixe.

Day 5

Beginning from the picturesque village of Reliquias we cycle along the Montado Ecosystem and through the Natural Park to the pretty coastal town of Milfontes.

Day 6

Today we cycle from the district capital, Odemira, which sits at the end of the River Mira overlooking the harbour, passing through mining and farming communities at the foot of the mountains.

Day 7

Our final ride along the coast takes us to the clifftop community of Porto Covo and Ilha do Pessegueiro. Also known as 'Peach Island', the area has suffered at the hands of pirates over the years and has many abandoned forts.

Day 8

Transfer to Lisbon. Fly to London.

Want to see more?

Trip Notes contain all the detailed information you need. A full day by day itinerary, accommodation details, guides and other practical information. Download Now

Then Check Availability and Book Online

Images from CYCLING THE ALENTEJO

Note: Click on a thumbnail to enlarge.

Cycling through fields of the Alentejo