7-Day North of Portugal and Minho cycling holiday

The Cycle Trail of Minho River was ranked as the fourth best 2009 trail in Europe. That alone showcases all the amazing Portuguese landscapes, rivers and seaside views which you will be enjoying during this trip. Cycle trough World Heritage villages, vineyards, farmed land, beaches, historical towns, going down the country in the direction of the mighty city of Porto.
The Minho River is also the perfect excuse for relaxing in the north of the country. Explore the trails and the Portuguese villages along this border river and its main highlights. The Minho River flows along 300 km. It serves as a natural border between Portugal and Spain, travelling the entire way across Melgaço and its mouth in Caminha.


Taste the worldwide known gastronomy. Enjoy the delicious corn bread, sausages, codfish, lamprey, trout and shad, cooked in many traditional ways. For those who enjoy good meat, you can’t miss out on the famous “sarrabulho” porridge and the seasoned pieces of pork. Relish on the regional wines that the country couldn't go without. This will surely enrich your trip and give you the desire to come back and discover more of Portugal!



Route description:
Flat route. Some short climbs in beginning of the 1st day and in the last day, entering in the city of Porto.
40 % bike lanes and wood walkways and 15% smooth dirt roads. Some coubblestones roads and 10 % paved secondary roads with low traffic.

Itinerary:

Day 1 – Melgaço
Day 2 – Melgaço - Valença ( 43 km )
Day 3 – Valença – Viana do Castelo ( 55 km)
Day 4 – Viana do Castelo – Ponte de Lima ( 25 km)
Day 5 - Ponte de Lima – Esposende ( 55 km)
Day 6 – Esposende – Porto (60km)

Day 7 - Departure

What's included:


- 6 nights accommodation with breakfast in 4 star accommodations ( one 3 star hotel and 1 farm)
- Bike rent, helmet, tools
- E-bike available (extra 175 €)
- GPS with route for self guided
- Luggage transfer
- Porto arrival and departure airport transfer
- Road book
- Santiago pick up back to Porto city in Van ( our ticket BUS)

Exclusions:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Insurances (please contract a travel insurance) - Insucances only available in guided bike tours
- lunches and dinners

Please note:
- Public transportation nearby
- Passport required
- Bikes provided are Trek mountain bicycles


- During July, August and September it is recommendable to cycle early due to the hot weather.


- Easy to moderate dificulty
- Please carry enough water at all times
- The route uses bike paths when available. Tarmac and rural streets will be on your way also.
- This is an easy to moderate tour along the coast, a good alternative to the much more difficult pilgrimages to Santiago de Compostela. Please note that there are some hills to contend with
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Not stroller accessible
- Not suitable for pets
- Infants must not sit on laps
- Infant seats unavailable
- Not recommended for people with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for people with heart conditions