Portugal's Atlantic Coast by Bike - Beginners/Family Trip
Starting from the beautiful city of Porto and its UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center, head south. Mainly along the Atlantic, this route designed for families and beginners takes you past pretty little beaches, picturesque villages, the Ria de Aveiro and its unique ecosystem, and charming seaside resorts.
Highlights:
- Porto
- Beaches along the route
- Costa Nova and its colorful houses
- Ria d'Aveiro
- Comfortable accommodation with swimming pools and/or spa
Day 1: Porto
Free arrival in Porto. Our local correspondent will pick you up at the airport to transfer you directly to your hotel in the city center (included). Briefing on site and adjustment of rental bikes (if booked). Enjoy your free time to explore this city with its unique atmosphere and friendly inhabitants. The historic district of Ribeira is worth a visit with its azulejos, baroque churches, yellow trams, old houses and bars and restaurants where you can have a drink and taste local specialties.
On the other side of the Douro, the river that divides the city in two, are the famous wineries of the delicious nectar that bears the same name as the city: Porto. You can visit them and of course taste this drink that is the pride of the locals.
Day 2: from Porto to Furadouro (46 km / + 300 m)
This first stage begins in the heart of old Porto. Cross the Dom Luis Bridge and enjoy the magnificent view it offers of the city and the Douro. Very quickly you reach the Atlantic coast and cycle for a long time passing by many charming little beaches such as Valadares, Francelos and Miramar. Don't hesitate to slip your swimsuit and towel into your bag to be equipped in case you suddenly feel like swimming! Miramar Beach is also an opportunity to visit a small and intriguing chapel perched on top of a rock. After Espinho, a pretty seaside resort, the route continues on a beautiful cycle path bordered by a pine forest to Furadouro. Before arriving, make a stop at the Esmoriz lagoon, a beautifully preserved area where many species of birds live.
Day 3: from Furadouro to Murtosa (34 km / + 200 m)
Today's goal is to reach Torreira and the Ria de Aveiro. This large bay is connected to the Atlantic Ocean by a narrow channel and has several islands and peninsulas that form a unique ecosystem. If Torreira Beach is a nice surfing spot with its beautiful sand dunes, the calm waters of the Ria are ideal for sailing and windsurfing. As for gastronomy, you are in the right place to taste delicious fresh seafood, the great local specialty.
Day 4: From Murtosa to Aveiro (33 km / + 200 m)
The Ria de Aveiro accompanies you to the city of the same name. Aveiro is nicknamed the Venice of Portugal because of its many canals and its authentic and unique atmosphere. If you arrive early, you can take a ride in a moliceiro. These typical colorful boats were once used to harvest mole, a seaweed used as fertilizer for agriculture. In the evening, stroll on foot through the streets of the small old town with its alleys and quays lined with small houses and elegant residences in Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles.
Day 5: From Aveiro to Praia de Mira (43 km / + 100 m)
You leave Aveiro by a path that winds between the salt marshes. The salt is extracted there using a traditional method passed down from generation to generation. After a few kilometers, you arrive in Barra and its picturesque fishing port. You can visit a museum ship there. This cod fishing vessel was in service from 1949 to 1997. Cycle towards Mira and admire the beautiful, colorful, authentic houses of Costa Nova. The closer you get to Mira and its beach, the more the landscape changes, with fields and vegetable gardens appearing.
Day 6: Return to Porto
After breakfast, a return transfer to Porto awaits you (1h30 included).
