Trip code: C07MI 4.4 (14 reviews)
Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
Flights
available
16.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
Optional
e-bike hire
In the far north of Portugal, on the border with Spain, lies the Minho region: a wild, rugged area of historical and cultural significance. You cycle, self-guided, through small villages and extensive vineyards, following the River Minho towards the Atlantic Ocean. The scenery is a stunning combination of high mountains, rolling river scenes, historic towns and dramatic coastal landscape. You will stay in authentic accommodation offering friendly Portuguese hospitality and delicious regional cuisine. There is plenty of opportunity to relax and enjoy the golden stretches of beach you cycle past, maybe accompanied by a glass of the local Vinho Verde (white wine) for which the region is well known. The ride finishes in Porto, named best European City Destination in 2013, 2014, and again for 2017.
65% paved, 35% unpaved (including some cobbled sections) mainly flat or downhill roads with some gentle hills.
An airport transfer is included to pick you up from Porto airport (please ensure you arrive before 2.10pm). By the time you reach Moncao, the fortified town on the River Minho, you will come to understand why the Portuguese are so proud of the fact that the Spanish were never able to conquer them.
You stay at Converto dos Capuchos.
This former monastery and mansion now offers accommodation with rooms set into refurbished monk cells, fitted with modern amenities. Hotel Convento dos Capuchos includes a spa, pool and a tennis court and is located above the Minho river.
On this stage you pedal westwards, along the River Minho to the Atlantic Ocean. Your journey takes you through extensive vineyards dedicated to the production of Vinho Verde (translates as young wine) which is a slightly carbonated, lower-alcohol wine; the perfect drink for a warm afternoon! You can pick up a bottle at the elegant Brejoeira Palace, which is a leading producer of top quality Vinho Verde. Along today's route you will cycle past landmarks of the battles between Portugal and Spain, such as the 17th Century stronghold at Valenca and the Vila Nova de Cerveira fort. That evening arrive in the elegant town of Caminha, located on the estuary of the River Minho, with a history dating back to pre-Roman times.
You stay at Porta do Sol Center.
This hotel offers views over the Minho River, the sea and Santa Tecla Mountain. Hotel Porta do Sol has 2 outdoor pools and gardens. The hotel presents designer rooms and suites with free Wi-Fi and balconies overlooking the river or mountain. Porta Do Sol’s panoramic restaurant provides a varied fresh breakfast and an à la carte menu of traditional dishes for dinner. Lunch is served at the bar and pool area. The spa offers a hot-water circuit, hot tub, sauna and Turkish bath. Massages and beauty treatments are also available.
Today you spend the morning cycling along the dramatic Atlantic Ocean coastline, through fishing villages that appear unchanged for centuries. Arriving in Viana do Castelo the peace and quiet is replaced by the buzz of this lively city, situated on the estuary of the River Lima. Viana has an impressive maritime history and the wealth created by this is demonstrated in the narrow lanes, crowded with Manueline manors and Rococo palaces. A must-see is the 19th Century Byzantine Santa Lucia Church on the hilltop overlooking the city, worth the steep climb for the breathtaking view. From here you cycle inland until you arrive in Ponte de Lima, the oldest village in Portugal.
You stay at Hotel Imperio do Norte.
The Império do Norte Hotel is located in the historic and cultural center of Ponte de Lima, the oldest town in Portugal, in the heart of Minho. Its privileged location allows you to enjoy all the richness of this region, typical in its folklore, handicrafts and gastronomy, being one of the richest regions in Portugal.
Cycle along the Lima river to Ponte da Barca. The town's historical centre has a number of manor houses (some of which have been adapted to provide accommodation for tourists), as well as some beautiful monuments dating from the sixteenth to the eighteenth century. The route continues to Arcos de Valdevez, a town which is situated in the valley of the River Vez which still retains much of the typical charm of the Alto Minho province - luxuriant green landscapes and the traditional architecture of its buildings, amongst which the most impressive are the manor houses. The municipality of Arcos de Valdevez is located inside the boundaries of the Peneda Geres National Park, where nature still conserves all of its original charm. Return to Ponte de Lima for a wine tasting and visit at the Interpretation Centre of Vinhos Verdes.
You stay at Hotel Imperio do Norte.
The Império do Norte Hotel is located in the historic and cultural center of Ponte de Lima, the oldest town in Portugal, in the heart of Minho. Its privileged location allows you to enjoy all the richness of this region, typical in its folklore, handicrafts and gastronomy, being one of the richest regions in Portugal.
The ride today follows the ancient Portuguese route used by pilgrim's on their way to Santiago de Compostela. Whether you are religious or not, it is a really special experience. It is a route that those who have walked it for centuries, do so knowing they will meet challenges, experience great joy, and learn the lesson of life. The pleasant route today is through cornfields and vineyards to the pretty town of Barcelos on the River Cavado. Barcelos is the centre of the pottery industry in Portugal. There are markets held in the town on most days and a visit to one of these is highly recommended.
You stay at Hotel Art'Otel.
Located in the center of Barcelos, Art'Otel is a Boutique Guest House that works in a beautiful building built around 1937, at the beginning of the 20th century. Recently rebuilt, it offers unique rooms with different decorations, all with a private bathroom, a seating area and an outdoor patio.
The ride back to the Atlantic today is a short stage, so why not take some extra time to enjoy a great lunch the Portuguese way: a leisurely, several course meal that reminds you again why the Portuguese people are so proud of their cuisine. You arrive in Vila do Conde where you can enjoy a walk around the manors and palaces within the town centre, and take a leisurely stroll along the beach before dinner.
You stay at Villa C Boutique Hotel.
Villa C Boutique Hotel is located on River Ave’s south bank, in Azurara. This 4-star property features a luxury spa and rooms with a balcony. In the contemporary guest rooms, Villa C Boutique Hotel provides flat-screen TVs and a minibar. Some rooms also have a spacious seating area. This boutique hotel features a restaurant, a bar, a spa and a gym.
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
The last stage of your holiday takes you on quiet cycle paths along the coast; along sand dunes, and passing through fishing villages and a seabird reserve. You approach Porto, and enter via the estuary of the River Douro. A UNESCO World Heritage City and best European City destination for 2013, 2014, and again for 2017, Porto is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. The old centre boasts more than 1500 listed monuments, and the history of the traditional Port Wine can be explored by visiting many of the Port cellars which are open to the public and can be appreciated during the included Port tasting.
You stay at Hotel Porto Trindade.
The very new Porto Trindade Hotel is located right in the traditional Porto City centre. The great location allows easy access to the main tourist attractions of the city.
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
Finish your trip in Porto and take a transfer back to the airport.
These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £308.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into Porto airport. We can provide transfers from the airport, please contact us for details and prices.
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment. *Unfortunately, due to the airline themselves we are unable to book Ryanair.
Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
Flights
available
16.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
Optional
e-bike hire