Porto to Lisbon Atlantic Ride

All breakfasts and one wine tasting included.

A typical hotel breakfast consists of toast/bread with jam, or honey, cheese and ham, served with coffee, tea, milk, orange juice, fruit, cake and yoghurt. Eggs are usually available and there are frequently other cooked options; the breakfasts on this trip are always plentiful and perfect to set us up for a day of cycling.

Portuguese people are very proud of their cuisine, and the deliciously fresh seafood is a real highlight. You will find fresh fish on most menus, usually sardines, sea bream, hake, sea bass and sole, cooked in a variety of ways.

Bacalhau (cured codfish) is a national dish although it can vary depending on the region – there are up to 365 recipes to cook it. Caldo verde (green soup) is made with potatoes, olive oil and salt, sometimes with garlic and onion, and is typical in the northern region of Portugal.

For meat lovers, the barrosã meat (steak) is often served grilled and roasted just to its naturally delicious flavour. Francesinha is an iconic dish originating from Porto and involves layers of different meats (usually beef, ham, grilled pork, linguiça [smoke-cured pork sausage] and sausage), between two slices of bread, covered by melted cheese and immersed in a spicy beer and tomato sauce, often topped with a fried egg and surrounded by chips. It is not for the faint-hearted.

To drink you will find plenty of the local Sagres and Superbock beer. Vinho verde is available from the supermarket and directly from the producers. It is a young, medium-strength white wine with an almost carbonated quality. Port needs no introduction and a glass (or two) of the fortified wine will generally follow a hearty Portuguese meal.

There are an incredible amount of different desserts available and if you have a sweet tooth it will be possible to try a different one each day! Local favourites include bolo de bolacha (cookie cake), leite creme (cream eggs and sugar), pao de lo (sponge cake made with lots of eggs), arroz doce (a traditional rice pudding) and of course, pastel de nata, which you will find at most cafes on your route.

Local bike hire

London flights (if booking incl. flights)

Single accommodation (available on request)

E-bike hire available on request

The group is generally between six and 16 people. There will be a local cycling leader and an assistant leader driving the support vehicle. For groups of 12 or more, a second cycling guide will join.

Transfers to and from the airport will be by private vehicle (normally minibus). While cycling the vehicle will carry your baggage and be on hand with assistance or if you choose to ‘sit out’ a section of the ride (seats are limited). A guide cycles with the group.

We use a selection of four-star hotels, chosen for their location, comfort and character. Some have a swimming pool or are directly on the coast with exceptional sea views.  

The hotels typically used are on the day-to-day itinerary. However, below are a few of the notable accommodations on this trip. 

Porto: Neya Hotel (night 1) 

Begin this cycling adventure in a converted convent on the banks of the Douro River. Many of the original features were preserved during the restoration, plus there are plenty of modern conveniences, including a day spa and restaurant serving traditional Portuguese cuisine. Gather the group and raise a glass together at the Último rooftop bar with a view of the Douro.   

Figueira da Foz: Universal Boutique Hotel (night 4) 

Stay just one block from the beach at this stylish four-star hotel in the trendy Bairro Novo area of Figueira da Foz. There are 29 themed rooms and each floor of the hotel showcases a different aspect of a city once called the Queen of the Beaches of Portugal. When it's time to relax, head to the sophisticated lounge bar or there are plenty of restaurants, cafes and bars to try nearby.  

São Pedro do Moel: Mar & Sol Hotel (night 5) 

Enjoy a spot right by the North Atlantic Ocean with a stay at this four-star hotel. Some of the best sea views are found at the restaurant, which has floor-to-ceiling windows for panoramic vistas. The hotel also has a spa offering plenty of treatments and massages, plus a rooftop deck with sun loungers and more sea views.