What's the best season for cycling in Portugal?

Spring: Great across most regions, might rain in the north Summer: Too hot inland, best in the north and on the coast Autumn: Ideal in the south, rain returns in the north by November Winter: Ride in the Algarve or Madeira, avoid inland and north For a more in-depth rundown on the best time to plan your cycling holidays in Portugal, check this guide .

What if the weather forecast is unfavorable?

Tours in Portugal can continue in light rain with the appropriate clothing. Summer frequently witnesses afternoon thunderstorms , making early tour starts recommended. If challenging weather conditions are expected, we’ll strive to adjust the tour beforehand. Make sure to always check the forecast before setting out for a ride - here are the most reliable weather apps for Portugal.

How does luggage transfer work?

On cycling trips, luggage transfer allows you to ride without carrying heavy bags. Each morning, you leave your luggage at the designated spot—often the hotel reception—and it’s transported to your next overnight stop. Your bags are usually waiting for you when you arrive. Weight limits and pickup times can vary slightly depending on the service provider.

Do you transfer bikes too? How does it work?

Yes, bike transfers are often available when needed—such as before, after, or during your trip. Bikes are typically transported in secure vehicles or trailers designed for bicycles. You may need to notify the provider in advance, and some services require the bike to be clean or partially disassembled. Exact procedures vary depending on location and logistics.

Volcanic crater lake with turquoise water surrounded by lush green hills at Miradouro Boca do Inferno, Azores.

Lagoa do Fogo crater lake with winding road on green, grassy hillside mountains.

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Azores Cycling Holidays

8 days / 7 nights

Cycle through the dramatic volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, and coastal villages of São Miguel, uncovering the raw beauty and quiet charm of the Azores.

Starting point

Ponta Delgada

Finish point

Ponta Delgada

Season

From April to September

Fitness level

4/5

Cycle through the dramatic volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, and coastal villages of São Miguel, uncovering the raw beauty and quiet charm of the Azores.

Starting point

Ponta Delgada

Finish point

Ponta Delgada

Season

From April to September

Fitness level

4/5

Highlights

Ride along crater rims of Sete Cidades
Experience the island’s volcanic origins on a bike
Descend from the heights of Lagoa do Fogo to the rugged north coast
Explore dramatic coastal routes and serene inland trails across São Miguel
Discover geothermal valleys, hidden waterfalls, and quiet Azorean villages
Balance rewarding cycling days with free time for hiking, beach visits, or local exploration

Itinerary of the trip

Welcome to Ponta Delgada, the charming capital of São Miguel. With cobbled streets, seaside promenades, and local cafés tucked into 18th-century buildings, the city offers a gentle introduction to the island’s mix of history and volcanic beauty. The evening is yours to settle in and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Accommodation

Hotel in Ponta Delgada

Gallery

White buildings and church in Ponta Delgada with green hills under a blue sky.

Light blue townhouse facade in Ponta Delgada with ornate white trim, red doors, and iron balcony.

The Main Square of Ponta Delgada with white buildings and a central bell tower.

Your first ride takes you into the heart of São Miguel’s most iconic landscape. Starting from the coast, you’ll ascend through rural Várzea before reaching the twin lakes of Sete Cidades – one blue, one green – nestled inside an enormous volcanic caldera. The loop winds past Lagoa de Santiago and offers sweeping views before returning to Ponta Delgada.

Cycling

60 km and 990 m of elevation gain/loss

Accommodation

Hotel in Ponta Delgada

Gallery

Aerial view of Sete Cidades caldera lakes and lush green volcanic crater landscape.

White houses with green shutters along a street in Sete Cidades village under a dramatic sunset.

Winding road through lush green hills under a bright blue sky, Road to Sete Cidades

Today’s route crosses the island from south to north, offering a dramatic change in scenery. You’ll cycle through the town of Lagoa and climb into the highlands near Lagoa do Fogo, one of the island’s most pristine crater lakes. From the summit, a long descent leads you to Ribeira Grande, where hot springs and coastal breezes await.

Cycling

34 km and 940 m of elevation gain / 920 m of elevation loss

Accommodation

Hotel in Ribeira Grande

Gallery

Aerial view of Lagoa do Fogo crater lake with lush green slopes and distant ocean view.

Winding asphalt road ascending between steep, lush green hillsides toward Lagoa do Fogo.

Lagoa do Fogo, Azores: Turquoise crater lake surrounded by lush green mountains and orange wildflowers.

How you spend today is entirely up to you. You might relax on the dark-sand beaches of the north coast, explore Ribeira Grande’s historic center, or venture out by bike to the working fishing town of Rabo de Peixe. For something more active, a ride and short hike to Cascata do Limbo waterfall reveals one of the island’s hidden gems.

Accommodation

Hotel in Ribeira Grande

Gallery

Stone bridge leading to Ribeira Grande town with white buildings and green mountains under blue sky.

Dark sand beach at Santa Barbara, Ribeira Grande, with waves washing ashore under a blue sky.

Waterfall cascading down dark rocks surrounded by lush green foliage and brown flowering bushes.

Leaving the coast behind, you’ll follow a route that weaves through small villages like Porto Formoso and São Brás, where traditional Azorean life still thrives. Turning inland at Lomba da Maia, the road climbs through forested hills before dropping into the geothermal valley of Furnas, a place of bubbling springs, quiet lakes, and timeless charm.

Cycling

35 km and 950 m of elevation gain / 760 m of elevation loss

Accommodation

Hotel in Furnas

Gallery

Terraced bright green tea plantation fields under dramatic sunset sky at Gorreana Tea Plantation.

Wooden boardwalk winds through steaming geothermal area near lush green mountains of Furnas.

Lush green rolling hills and valleys with scattered trees and small village nestled among mountains.

With a full day in Furnas, you’ll have time to explore at your own pace. A gentle hike around Lagoa das Furnas reveals steaming fumaroles and lush botanical corners, while a ride to the southeast coast opens the door to Povoação’s ocean views or the cascading beauty of Salto do Prego, one of the island’s most scenic waterfalls.

Accommodation

Hotel in Furnas

Gallery

Winding road leading into Furnas village nestled among lush green mountains under a cloudy sky.

Water channel with small waterfalls, waterwheel, and white building in Furnas Town park.

Lagoa das Furnas lake surrounded by green hills, forests, and fields under a cloudy blue sky.

Your final cycling day brings the journey full circle. Heading west, you’ll pass through forested hills, farmlands, and quiet inland roads, gradually descending toward the coast. You'll be able to spot the iconic Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, crater of an underwater volcano, or visit the Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Paz.The route back to Ponta Delgada is peaceful and reflective – a chance to soak in one last look at São Miguel’s green, volcanic interior.

Cycling

45 km and 750 m of elevation gain / 930 m of elevation loss

Accommodation

Hotel in Ponta Delgada

Gallery

Lush green rolling hills meeting the blue Atlantic Ocean south of São Miguel, Azores.

Santuario de Nossa Senhora da Paz with white steps, blue tiles, and a large cross under a blue sky.

Aerial view of Islet of Vila Franca do Campo with natural pool and green hillsides.

After a week of cycling, hiking, and discovering the soul of São Miguel, your journey comes to an end. Depending on your departure time, there may be time for a final stroll along the harbor or one last café stop before heading home.

Gallery

Rooftops in the center of Ponta Delgada with green hills under a cloudy blue sky.

Portas da Cidade arches in a cobblestone square with white buildings and potted plants in Ponta Delgada.

Fountain with jets in Town Hall Square, Ponta Delgada, with historic buildings.

FREE ITINERARY

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What’s included in the price?

Self-guided

7 nights in 3* hotels with breakfast

GPS navigation with an easy-to-use app

Digital guidebook with detailed itinerary and route instructions

Tour design and organization

Service and support during your tour

Luggage transfer

NOT INCLUDED

Tourist tax

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Accomodation upgrade

Airport transfer

E-bike

Gravel bike

Regular bike

Road bike

Single supplement

Discover the wild, green heart of the Azores on a cycling journey through São Miguel!

An island where volcanic peaks, crater lakes, and ocean cliffs shape every view offers incredible experiences around every turn.

From the twin lagoons of Sete Cidades, split by legend and color, to the steaming fumaroles and tranquil waters of Furnas, this is a place defined by elemental contrasts. Rugged coastlines give way to black-sand beaches, while quiet inland roads climb to sweeping viewpoints above turquoise lakes like Lagoa do Fogo, ringed by untouched forests.

Cycling here means moving through a living landscape: passing hydrangea-lined roads, lush pastures, and hillside villages that feel frozen in time.

Between rides, you'll have space to explore on foot: to reach hidden waterfalls, walk crater trails, or simply soak in the thermal pools that bubble up from the earth. Towns like Ribeira Grande and Povoação offer a glimpse into Azorean life, where fishing boats bob in small harbors and local dishes are slow-cooked in the ground.

With us, your cycling experience is fully supported with carefully arranged accommodations, handpicked for comfort and local charm. You'll receive detailed GPS tracks for every route and a comprehensive digital guidebook filled with insider tips, recommended stops, dining suggestions, and optional activities and detours to help you make the most of your time on São Miguel.

Ready to explore the Azores on two wheels?

Top Places You'll See

From natural wonders to authentic local culture, the route is packed with memorable sights—these are our absolute favorites.

Ponta Delgada

The Azores’ largest city on São Miguel blends maritime heritage with basalt-and-lime architecture. Cobblestone squares, the 18th-century Portas da Cidade, and churches like São Sebastião frame a lively harbor of markets, gardens, and whale-watching departures.

Sete Cidades

Sete Cidades is a volcanic caldera famed for its twin lakes—Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde—whose contrasting colors mirror sky and forest. Viewpoints such as Vista do Rei, hydrangea-lined lanes, and rim trails reveal sweeping crater walls and pastoral villages.

Lagoa do Fogo

Also known as Lake of Fire, this beautiful body of water occupies a high crater in the Água de Pau Massif, protected as a nature reserve. Its clear water, pale sands, and steep, ferny slopes create a pristine, windswept setting reached by switchback trails and scenic overlooks.

Ribeira Grande

Ribeira Grande, on São Miguel’s north coast, pairs Baroque basalt facades with the graceful Ponte dos Oito Arcos over the river. Nearby black-sand beaches like Santa Bárbara draw surfers, while town squares host festivals and the church of Nossa Senhora da Estrela.

Furnas Thermal Pools

Furnas Thermal Pools tap a geothermal valley of fumaroles and mineral springs. Soak in Terra Nostra Garden’s iron-rich pool or the canals of Poça da Dona Beija, then sample “cozido” stew slow-cooked in volcanic soil amid hissing vents and bubbling mud pots.

Our Bikes

To ensure the best possible experience on your cycling adventure, we offer top-quality bikes for rent. Our fleet features the latest models, meticulously maintained for both performance and comfort.

To match each rider with the right equipment, our team will also assist you in selecting the most suitable bike based on your physical profile, personal preferences, and the technical requirements of the tour.

Black road bike with drop handlebars isolated on a white background

Road Bikes

Best for: Paved routes, longer distances, and climbs

Our road bikes are lightweight, fast, and built for endurance. They typically feature carbon or high-quality aluminium frames, smooth gearing, and reliable components—often Shimano 105 or similar. Well-suited for long days in the saddle, they’re perfect for climbs, steady cruising, and covering serious distance on tarmac.

Black and red hybrid trekking bicycle isolated on white background

Trekking Bikes

Best for: Multi-day touring, relaxed pace, and varied surfaces

These high-quality trekking bikes are built for comfort over multiple days. They feature a relaxed riding position, smooth-rolling wheels, and often come with practical additions like an adjustable stem, rear rack, or mudguards. They're not necessarily built for speed, but more for enjoying the ride.

Black gravel bike with drop handlebars and knobby tires isolated on white background

Gravel Bikes

Best for: Mixed-surface rides, backroads, and light trails

These are premium gravel bikes built to handle a mix of paved and unpaved terrain. They come with wider tires for extra grip, disc brakes for reliable stopping, and stable geometry that keeps things comfortable on longer rides. A great choice for exploring backroads, forest trails, or varied surfaces with confidence and ease.

Blue trekking e-bike with rear rack and fenders isolated on white background

Touring E-Bikes

Best for: Comfortable trekking, touring, longer distances, and hilly routes

These pedal-assist electric bikes are designed to make riding easier and more enjoyable—especially on longer or hillier routes. They come with powerful mid-drive motors, long-lasting batteries, and comfortable riding geometry for smooth support across varied terrain. With intuitive controls and quality components, they’re a great choice for riders who want extra assistance without giving up the feel of a real ride.

Things to know

Embark on a self-guided cycling odyssey, designed for a tailor-crafted and adaptable getaway on two wheels, unveiling wonders at your own pace while having the freedom to alter your itinerary or path as needed. Our dedicated team meticulously handles all facets, encompassing lodging arrangements, thorough planning, GPS navigational aid, and continuous support, to gift you a tranquil and engrossing journey.

Our tours are segmented into three tiers of difficulty: Leisurely, Moderate, and Challenging, categorized by the usual daily routine, although there may be variations in difficulty throughout the trip.

Leisurely tours are ideal for those in pursuit of a relaxed adventure amidst stunning landscapes, without the challenge of covering long distances or tackling rough terrains. These journeys typically cover 30-50 km each day, with an elevation gain of up to 500 m. This allows plenty of pauses to relish the scenic vistas, enjoy local delicacies, and explore charming villages and towns along the way.

Moderate bike tours are tailored for those seeking a beautiful blend of scenic trails and a dash of challenge. Generally covering 50-80 km daily with an elevation gain of up to 1000 m, these tours traverse enchanting landscapes and delightful villages, featuring a mix of flat and rolling terrains. They not only provide ample chances to stop and explore but also ensure a satisfying cycling workout.

Challenging bike tours are meant for experienced cyclists eager to push their limits. Spanning 80-120 km daily with an elevation gain of up to 2000 m, these tours entail tackling steep ascents and demanding terrains. Though these tours require a high level of fitness and endurance, the exhilarating feeling of accomplishment at the end of each day, coupled with breathtaking views, makes the endeavor thoroughly rewarding.

Our tours can be adapted to any bike type, whether road, gravel, or mountain bike. We are in constant communication with you to find the optimal conditions for your cycling holidays in Portugal.

The most versatile option is a gravel bike, even if you are coming on a road cycling holiday. It does not really affect your road performance while allowing you to take some scenic backroads that can be in a slightly worse state than the main ones. A gravel bike is usually more comfortable as well.

We are devoted to discovering the ideal match for you. We collaborate with numerous lodging providers who meet our standards, although their availability may fluctuate, especially during peak demand times. Furthermore, we can customize your vacation to align with your preferences and budget, ensuring we identify the most fitting choice for your needs.
Here, you can see the types of accommodations in Portugal.

We advise booking your tour at the earliest opportunity, especially for popular tourist destinations with limited lodging availability. Prime choices often get snapped up for the summer before spring even arrives.

Addressing dietary preferences can vary based on their complexity. In Portugal, vegetarian options are generally available, but finding vegan meals might be more challenging in rural areas or smaller towns. Notably, lunch stops are often at traditional eateries which may not cater to special dietary needs beyond their standard menu. Keep this in consideration as you plan your adventure.

Wondering what are the most common things on the menu? Check our guides for foodies in Portugal!

If you are not bringing your own bike and equipment, we can certainly arrange that for you. We have a wide selection of bikes at our disposal and we will choose the ones that best fit your tour. All we need from you is your usual bike size and any other relevant information or preferences so we can make sure you will be comfortable throughout your trip.

Spring: Great across most regions, might rain in the north
Summer: Too hot inland, best in the north and on the coast
Autumn: Ideal in the south, rain returns in the north by November
Winter: Ride in the Algarve or Madeira, avoid inland and north

For a more in-depth rundown on the best time to plan your cycling holidays in Portugal, check this guide.

Ratings & Reviews

+85

Katja Bobik

Verified customer · 8 months ago

My self-guided cycling trip in southern Portugal was the perfect way to explore the Algarve. The routes were expertly planned, guiding me along dramatic cliffs, quiet beaches, and through charming inland villages. The provided GPS was easy to use, and I loved being able to stop whenever I wanted to enjoy a view or take a refreshing swim. Accommodations were comfortable and conveniently located, and luggage transfers made it all so simple. Timotej and the team were incredibly helpful, always checking in to make sure I had everything I needed for a smooth and enjoyable trip. This was an unforgettable adventure!

Mystie Pineda

Verified customer · 3 months ago

I found this place with a simple Google search, and I never could’ve expected the custom experience I received. They provided options to help my husband and I hone in on exactly what we wanted to do for our honeymoon. We had perfectly curated GPS-lead rides all across the country, they booked all of our hotels, and planned all of our transportation. Every place that we went was so beautiful. I’m so grateful that we found this company to help us plan our honeymoon, couldn’t have asked for a better experience!

Mountain bikes parked near blue and white crosswalk in European alpine village street

Wet, narrow street in a European town leading to a church spire, backed by a forested mountain.

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River flowing through a European town with historic buildings and forested mountains in the background.

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Bill Wright

Verified customer · 3 months ago

I was able to tailor a bike tour itinerary along the Adriatic coast that suited our group during the shoulder season. We added individual pre and post-trip activities which went smoothly. Our trip included stops in Italy, Slovenia and Croatia. The trip planner, guide and support team were great.

Group posing in front of Pula Arena with a stone wall and parked car.

barney barnhart

Verified customer · 3 months ago

Brilliant planning, great communication, terrific hotels and accommodations, interesting cities and beautiful scenery plus amazing routes.

Black and white cat with green eyes looking up from light gray tiled floor

Maroon gravel bike resting against a low stone wall in grassy terrain

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Gravel bike with rear rack and phone mount resting against a dry-stacked stone wall outdoors.

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John Woeste

Verified customer · 4 months ago

Highly recommend the bike trip from Bled to Pula. It was well planned. We did a small group self-supported. Big fun. Bikes, hotels, route selection and communication with the company was great.

Cyclist riding on dirt path under green leafy archway toward open field

Cyclist with panniers riding up a narrow cobblestone street in a historic town.

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Toasting with white and red wine glasses outdoors with greenery in the background

Alison Booth

Verified customer · 4 months ago

I would highly recommend anyone doing this tour take the e-bike option. There were only 3 of us on our tour who completed this on regular bikes. Four others who started out on regular bikes swapped over to e-bikes after the first day. The climbs are long and steep. There is pretty much only up or down, not much flat or undulating road. It is doable, but very challenging. If you are on an e-bike then this also helps with the group staying together and no-one having to wait too long for others to catch up. The bikes were really good and had great gearing that was capable of handling the steeper climbs. When we booked we were unaware that we would be riding in a group of 20plus at all time. Thankfully our group had prior group riding experience but we did observe other large groups with less than desirable riding behaviours.Others in our group were extremely understanding and supportive. Our guide, David, was very adamant about staying safe on the road. He was flexible with the itinerary and made changes to suit the weather conditions and to ensure we got in as much riding as possible. He was vey knowledgeable about Croatian history and agriculture and taught us lots about the country he is so passionate about. Our captain, Tolma, was also amazing and along with his awesome crew, made our cruise an enjoyable experience.

View from sailboat bow approaching coastal town with white buildings and green hills under blue sky.

Sailboat on the water during a vibrant orange and yellow sunset over the sea.

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Large sailboat named Toma loading bicycles from a dinghy near a forested coastline.

Katja Bobik

Verified customer · 8 months ago

Bill Wright

Verified customer · 3 months ago

John Woeste

Verified customer · 4 months ago

Highly recommend the bike trip from Bled to Pula. It was well planned. We did a small group self-supported. Big fun. Bikes, hotels, route selection and communication with the company was great.

Show all 3 photos

Mystie Pineda

Verified customer · 3 months ago

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barney barnhart

Verified customer · 3 months ago

Brilliant planning, great communication, terrific hotels and accommodations, interesting cities and beautiful scenery plus amazing routes.

Show all 11 photos

Alison Booth

Verified customer · 4 months ago

Show all 3 photos

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Food & Wine experience

All available guidance options

Self-guided

Those who like good adventure and limitless flexibility should go on a self-guided cycling holiday. It offers complete freedom, multiple detour opportunities, and exploration at your own pace without having to adapt to a group.

Hassle-Free

We take care of route planning, accommodations, luggage transfers, and all logistics, so you can focus purely on enjoying your ride.

Tried & Tested Adventures

Our cycling routes are hand-picked & tested, to ensure breathtaking landscapes, smooth roads, and maximum safety - giving you the perfect ride every day.

Unbeatable Support

Our 24/7 customer support is where we show our passion, ensuring your cycling holiday runs smoothly and your well-being is always our top priority.

Book with Confidence

We are a financially protected company, fully bonded and insured, keeping your money safe and allowing you to travel with confidence.

from 1.969 € /person

Azores Cycling Holidays

Highlights

Itinerary of the trip

Day 1: Arrival to Ponta Delgada

Day 2: Sete Cidades Loop

Day 3: Ponta Delgada – Ribeira Grande

Day 4: Free Day in Ribeira Grande

Day 5: Ribeira Grande – Furnas

Day 6: Free Day in Furnas

Day 7: Furnas – Ponta Delgada

Day 8: Departure

What’s included in the price?

Self-guided

Top Places You'll See

Our Bikes

Things to know

What are self-guided cycling tours?

How demanding are your tours?

What kind of a bicycle is the best for your tours?

Why aren't accommodations specified?

How far in advance should I book?

What if I have dietary restrictions?

Do you offer bike rentals?

What's the best season for cycling in Portugal?

Ratings & Reviews

Katja Bobik

Mystie Pineda

Bill Wright

barney barnhart

John Woeste

Alison Booth

Katja Bobik

Bill Wright

John Woeste

Mystie Pineda

barney barnhart

Alison Booth

Similar Products

All available guidance options

Self-guided

Hassle-Free

Tried & Tested Adventures

Unbeatable Support

Book with Confidence

Have questions? Talk to us.

Itinerary of the trip

Day 1: Arrival to Ponta Delgada

Day 2: Sete Cidades Loop

Day 3: Ponta Delgada – Ribeira Grande

Day 4: Free Day in Ribeira Grande

Day 5: Ribeira Grande – Furnas

Day 6: Free Day in Furnas

Day 7: Furnas – Ponta Delgada

Day 8: Departure

Our Bikes

Ratings & Reviews

Katja Bobik

Mystie Pineda

Bill Wright

barney barnhart

John Woeste

Alison Booth

Katja Bobik

Bill Wright

John Woeste

Mystie Pineda

barney barnhart

Alison Booth

Similar Products

Top Places You'll See