Porto to Lisbon cycling vacation

The wild and weathered Atlantic Coast is tracked by the largest cycle path in Portugal, which winds its way south past pristine beaches and under sweet smelling pines, connecting pretty fishing villages and panoramic ocean views. Contrary to the serene waters of the sunny Algarve, Portugal’s western shore endures the temper of the restless Atlantic ocean. Untamed nature and big wave surfing reign supreme, and a bicycle tour is the best way to see it all.

Unlike the surging sea, the coastal path is made for relaxing days in the saddle; it’s pretty much plain sailing all the way from Porto to Lisbon. The forecast is for seaside cycling in the sunshine, with the promise of warm sea swims, peaceful afternoons of pedalling and long leisurely evenings spent uncovering your new favourite restaurant.

Self guided tours are ideal for exploring the coast at your leisure, pausing for photos when you like and delaying the day’s ride to squeeze in a second custard pastry at breakfast. With your route mapped out ready and all your accommodation arranged in advance, you can enjoy the independence of the open road, without any of the hard work. On arrival, you will be provided with maps of the route, a GPS, itinerary and a bike, with luggage transfers between your hotels and most meals included. However, if you’d rather ride alongside a group, with a guide taking the lead, you can also join a small group cycling tour.

The best time for cycling the Atlantic Coast is between April and October, but a self guided tour can be arranged at any time of the year, depending on your availability. Mild temperatures in the winter months mean that Portugal is always an option for a smidgen of sunshine, while the cool Atlantic breeze curbs the sizzling summer heat. Spring and autumn are fresh and welcome long days of cycling, while blooming wildflowers and autumn colours transform the golden coast.

The quietly sparkling, turquoise seas of Portugal’s coves and beaches are like oases in a desert of dunes and coniferous forests. For outsiders it may be overshadowed by the reputation of the south, but the western coast is home to some of the country’s best-loved beaches, including a glorious sweep of sand at Figueira da Foz known locally as the ‘Queen of Beaches’, or the Rainha das Praias. Pedalling between pines and dunes you’ll glide along the Silver Coast, past beaches primed for windsurfing and secluded spots for swimming.