Silver Coast Cycling Holidays
Witness breathtaking ocean vistas and serene lagoons that define the Silver Coast
Discover the iconic striped houses of Costa Nova
Enjoy scenic coastal paths, lush pine forests, and peaceful riverbank trails
Savor local delicacies like fresh seafood, convent sweets, and traditional bread-cakes
Explore Aveiro’s colorful canals and Coimbra’s ancient university
Immerse yourself in Portuguese culture with visits to charming fishing villages
Walk through Coimbra's botanical gardens
Marvel at São Jacinto's sand dunes
Enjoy well-maintained cycling paths
Indulge in authentic port wine and delicacies
Relish the freedom of exploring on two wheels
Marvel at the Senhor da Pedra chapel
Spot iconic Portugese blue tiles
Explore Portugal's iconic Silver Coast
Itinerary
Welcome to Porto! As you settle in, you may want to explore the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Livraria Lello or the São Bento train station with its intricate tilework. The colorful Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers winding cobblestone streets and picturesque views of the Douro River. Take the day at your leisure and prepare for the journey ahead.
Your adventure will begin with a ride over the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge into Vila Nova de Gaia, home to the famous Port wine cellars. You will cycle along scenic coastal roads, encountering highlights such as the Senhor da Pedra Chapel, dramatically perched on Miramar Beach. The route will take you through the bustling town of Espinho, where traditional fish dishes will provide a delicious lunchtime pause. As you approach Furadouro, the fishing town of Ovar will charm you with its pão-de-ló cakes, convent sweets, and the Chapel of the Steps, a National Monument.
46.5 km and 200 m of elevation gain
The ride will continue through picturesque fishing villages and past the tranquil São Jacinto Natural Reserve. You will witness the diverse birdlife and serene landscapes that make this reserve a haven for nature lovers. A ferry crossing will take you to Aveiro, often called the “Venice of Portugal,” where you will have the chance to admire the city’s network of canals and brightly painted boats. You can end the day with visits to the historic Jesus Monastery and the tiled beauty of Aveiro’s train station, immersing you in the city’s cultural richness, or relax and prepare for upcoming days.
35 km and 8 m of elevation gain
You will set out toward the charming town of Ílhavo, celebrated for its centuries-old tradition of crafting Vista Alegre porcelain. The journey will lead you to Costa Nova do Prado, a unique coastal area where you can marvel at the vibrant haystack houses with their distinctive striped facades. The meeting of rural charm and coastal beauty creates a truly enchanting atmosphere. As you approach Praia de Mira, the sandy beaches and the tranquil sound of waves will provide a peaceful conclusion to your day.
39 km and 90 m of elevation gain
This leg of your journey will take you past the serene Barrinha Lagoon, a natural sanctuary fed by the Ria de Aveiro. You will ride through aromatic pine forests, where the mingling scents of trees and ocean air offer a refreshing backdrop. The coastal scenery will shift as you approach Figueira da Foz, a bustling seaside resort known for its vast beaches and lively atmosphere. The day will end with the sight of the majestic Mondego River flowing into the Atlantic, framing the town’s natural beauty.
42.5 km and 220 m of elevation gain
You will leave the coast behind as the route follows the tranquil Mondego River inland. The journey will feature rolling countryside and scenic views of the river, renowned for its purity and clarity. You’ll even pass the majestic Montemor-o-Velho castle. The ride will culminate in Coimbra, a city steeped in history and academia, home to one of the oldest universities in Europe. Here, you will discover cultural landmarks, fado music, and a vibrant atmosphere that reflects the city’s intellectual heritage.
50.5 km and 185 m of elevation gain
After breakfast, you will prepare for your departure, reflecting on the stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality you experienced along Portugal’s Silver Coast. Departing from this historic city, you will carry with you unforgettable memories of a cycling journey that showcased the very best of coastal and cultural Portugal.
Not enough? Why not spend a few more days here! Extend your holidays with a pre- or post-holiday extension. Accommodation, sightseeing, and activities can be arranged. Add as many extra days to your holiday as you wish.
Not enough? Why not spend a few more days here! Extend your holidays with a pre- or post-holiday extension. Accommodation, sightseeing, and activities can be arranged. Add as many extra days to your holiday as you wish.
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Self guided
Included in price
Description
From the vibrant streets of Porto to the historic charm of Coimbra, the Silver Coast Cycling Holidays will be an experience of a lifetime.
The Silver Coast is famed for its variety – its terrain gently transitions from flat coastal paths to rolling countryside, making it accessible yet rewarding for cyclists of all levels.
With each day offering new discoveries, you will enjoy a perfect balance of leisurely rides and enriching explorations.
As you cycle southward, you will traverse scenic coastal routes, cross iconic bridges, and pass through charming fishing villages. The São Jacinto Natural Reserve will enchant nature enthusiasts, while the vibrant canals of Aveiro, often called the “Venice of Portugal”, promise a delightful experience.
Each destination, from Praia de Mira to Figueira da Foz, offers a mix of natural wonders and authentic Portuguese culture. The tour culminates in Coimbra, a city rich in history and academia, where ancient architecture and fado music create an atmosphere of timeless charm.
With seamless logistics, thoughtfully planned accommodations, GPS routes and round-the-clock support throughout your journey, you can focus entirely on the joy of the ride.
Map
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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.
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.
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.
The ideal cycling season in Portugal stretches from mid-April to mid-October. In elevated regions like the Serra da Estrela, it’s preferable to cycle from mid-May to September.
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.
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Hassle-Free
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