Authenticity in the Atlantic and Douro by Bike
Authenticity in the Atlantic and Douro by Bike
Authenticity in the Atlantic and Douro by Bike
9 Days Starting in Baiona, Pontevedra, Spain and ending in Porto, Portugal
Visiting: Baiona, Caminha, Ponte de Lima, Sabrosa, Peso da Régua, Porto
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
10 - 16
Age range:
16-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Lactose-free Gluten free
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
From:
$4327
$4133
Exclusive Tourhub Members Discount: -$195
NB: Prices correct on 21-May-2024 but subject to change.
Tour Overview
About this Tour This tour has been designed to give you the best adventure from the Atlantic coast to the valleys of the Douro. It will stimulate both body and mind. As you cycle south from the coastal region of Galicia in the north, the beauty of the ever-changing views over the vast Atlantic will stimulate your imagination. Now it's on to one of Portugal's oldest cities, set against the green backdrop of the Minho. Refresh yourself with a glass of Vinho Verde on one of the terraces next to the Roman Bridge. From here, it's the terraces of the Douro that mark the time of the generations that will make our next few days unforgettable. The Alto Douro Wine Region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the oldest demarcated and controlled wine region in the world. The Douro will envelop you in its magic, where unique man-made wine terraces cover the hillsides on either side of the river valley. After a few delightful days in the landscapes of the Douro, we set off for Porto, one of Europe's most beautiful cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the romanticism of the city blends with the culture and history of Port wine. Let's dream...
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Typically Seaside Houses By The Sea, Narrow Cobblestone Streets And A Beautiful Bay
Location: Baiona
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Parador de Baiona ****
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
From Porto airport (Portugal), where you arrive, you will be taken to Baiona (in Galicia, Spain), a charming and lively port town where a dish of fresh fish from the sea is an absolute must. Don't forget to take a stroll around the port or the Monterreal Fort, famous for its Prince's Tower.
- Dinner at the hotel - Included
Note: Transfer to Baiona at 11am, if you are not at Porto airport at that time you will have to go on your own or there will be an additional cost.
If you prefer, you can go straight to Baiona
Day 2 : The Perfect Town For Enjoying Beaches, Rivers, Mountains, Forests, Gothic, Renaissance And Baroque Architecture And Fabulous Food
Location: Caminha
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Porta do Sol ****
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, Wine Tasting Picnic at the end of the stages
The first half of the day on your bike you cycle in Spain, gently following the flat coastline, along the foothills of the Sierra de la Grova mountains and a bit further south, of the Sierra de Argalo. You may enter Portugal by ferry, across the river Minho into the town of Caminha, or a bit further upriver, by crossing the Vila Nova de Cerveira bridge. In Caminha delight in the stately houses that set the scene as you enter the town, whose history dates as far back as pre-Roman times. Your stage ends here.
Picnic - Included
Dinner at the hotel - Included
Verde wine tasting - Included
Difficulty level: Easy
Distance (Km): 37.8 Km
Day 3 : From Caminha To Ponte De Lima Along The Coast To Viana Do Castelo
Location: Ponte de Lima
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Pousada Mosteiro de Amares *****
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, Picnic at the end of the stages
Roman times when it was the principal port for the north of Iberia, Viana’s impressive history includes that of its merchants who supplied the naval provisions for the ships that took part in the Portuguese discoveries during the 16th century and later built the ships that sailed to Newfoundland for codfish.
With their wealth, they built the numerous stately townhouses whose architectural beauty is a hallmark of the city. A must-see is the 19th-century byzantine Santa Luzia Church on the hilltop overlooking the city. This will take some climbing, but the reward is a breath-taking view.
From here you will cycle inland again, following the River Lima until you arrive in Ponte de Lima. The oldest village in Portugal, it is famous for its beautiful 24-arch Roman bridge famous and its importance to medieval pilgrims as they made their way from Porto to Santiago de Compostela.
transfer to the hotel.
Picnic - Included
Dinner at the hotel - Included
Difficulty level: Easy
Distance (Km): 54.9 Km
Transfer to the hotel
Day 4 : Transfer To Sabrosa
Location: Sabrosa
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Casa das Pipas
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, Picnic at the end of the transfer
On this day we will have a transfer to an estate that was a Portuguese, family-run and independent house that passionately embraced the concept of "Boutique Winery", dedicating itself to the production of Douro wines, Port wines and Moscatel.
On this day you can take a short walk through the vineyards to get a feel for the best of the Douro.
Picnic - Included
Wine tasting
Dinner at local restaurant - Included
Difficulty level: Easy
Distance (Km): 12.7 Km
Day 5 : Sabrosa Round Tour
Location: Sabrosa
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Casa das Pipas
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The Alto Douro wine region is famous for its wines. The first and most important is Port wine, but the region also produces award-winning red wines from the Touriga grape variety.
The terraced vineyards, so typical of this Unesco World Heritage region, have been carved into the hillsides by man. The well-tended quintas stand proudly in the middle of the vineyards, their names clearly visible to all who pass by. On the way, we will stop at a local producer for an olive oil tasting and picnic.
Olive oil tasting and picnic - Included
Dinner at the hotel - Included
Day 6 : Enjoy Your Itinerary To The Fullest
Location: Peso da Régua
Accommodation Name: Quinta da Pacheca *****
Meals Included: Picnic at the end of the stages
Enjoy your itinerary to the fullest, one that will live on as memorable for the most fantastic landscapes and wines that Portugal has to offer!
The route is mainly flat, having the company of the Douro River all along the way and surrounded by vineyards and wine estates. Alijó, one of the towns you will pass, dates back to 1226, although some remains have been found that prove that the site has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Located in the heart of the Douro demarcated region, its importance is closely linked to the production of wine, for many of the estates that produce the famous Port Wine are to be found in this municipality.
When you arrive in Pinhão, at the edge of the river tarry a while and explore this picturesque village. The train station, built at the end of the 19th century and decorated with beautiful hand painted tiles describing life in the region, is especially worthy of a visit.
From Pinhão, you will follow along the famous route N222, internationally acclaimed as one of the most beautiful in Portugal. Your goal is Régua, the capital city of the Douro Wine Region.
The Douro Wine Region is famous for its wines. First and foremost is Port Wine, but the region also produces prize-winning red wines from the Touriga and other indigenous grapes. The terraced vineyards, so typical of the region that is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Property, were carved by men from the hillsides.
The neatly kept rise proudly amidst the vineyards, their names clearly visible to everyone who passes.
Picnic - Included
Guided Winery Tour + Wine Tasting with Cheese pairing - Included
Dinner at the hotel - Include
Day 7 : Today Will Be A Special Day With A Transfer To The Railway Station.
Location: Peso da Régua
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Quinta da Pacheca *****
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today will be a special day with a transfer to the railway station.
The Douro railway line is a remarkable engineering feat, completed in 1887, with twenty-six tunnels and thirty bridges. It is spectacular, as the train follows the banks of the Douro River for dozens of kilometres.
From the train you can appreciate the most unknown and least visited wine-growing area of the Douro, classified as a World Heritage Site. Journey by normal train, single class. The train journey starts at Ferradosa railway station.
From here we have a transfer to start the 1.5 kilometre walk.
This pleasant stroll begins at one of the Douro's most impressive viewpoints, with breathtaking views over the valley. The route runs through an area of nature of great scenic beauty, then passes through an area of traditional small-scale farming with olive and almond trees, some vineyards and vegetables.
The walk ends in a community village with rich traditions: Community oven, Organic farming, Artisan cheese production...
You can recharge your batteries with a delicious lunch served in the town centre with local products.
From here we head to Pinhão where we will take a private trip on a typical Rabelo boat to the Foz do Távora pier, where this magnificent experience ends.
Transfer to Quinta da Pacheca
Train - Included
Lunch - Included
Boat - Included
All transfers - Included
Dinner at the hotel - Included
Day 8 : Porto - Unesco World Heritage City, World-Famous For Port Wine
Location: Porto
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Eurostars Porto Douro ****
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
In the morning we head to Porto, where you can explore the city on a guided walking tour. Walk down to the riverside in the medieval Ribeira neighborhood. Porto is a World Heritage City, a historical jewel with more than 150 listed monuments. Walk along the riverbank, past the famous Eiffel Bridge and across to the Porto wine cellars that rise up from the hills on the south bank of the River Douro for a tour and tasting.
Transfer Régua - Porto - Included
Walking tour of Porto - Included
Port wine cellars for a tasting and visit – Included
Dinner at the hotel - Included
Day 9 : Porto - Unesco World Heritage City, World-Famous For Port Wine
Location: Porto
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel and check-out
Transfer to Porto airport
The end of a fantastic adventure
What's Included
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Accommodation
Parador de Baiona Hotel * * * *, Baiona (Spain) Situated on a peninsula, this is one of the most unique hotel Parador; the building is mid-way between a medieval fortress and seigniorial Gallegan architecture. It commands an impressive viewpoint above the ocean within a walled enclosure. It is protected by the sea and has a beautiful pine forest on either side. It is located in the Rias Baixas Wine Region. The hotel has magnificent, stylish rooms full of decorative features from different eras. Manorial rooms and spacious bedrooms, with superior rooms boasting spectacular sea views, make up a grandiose interior along with its outstanding stone staircase in the entrance hall. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, gym, Jacuzzi, Sauna and a seasonal Swimming Pool. The rooms are equipped with a minibar, tv, and safe. --- Porta do Sol Hotel ****, Caminha The Porta do Sol Hotel & Spa is located in Caminha, a small charming town facing the estuary of the River Minho, at 90 km from Porto airport by motorway. It was recently refurbished and offer superb views over the river mouth. Galicia is just across the river and the town centre is at 10 minutes walking distance. The beach is at 1 km from the hotel. All rooms have a balcony and are equipped with wireless Internet and 32-inch LCD’s. It includes a restaurant with panoramic views over the river, a bar, a living room and a large outdoor swimming pool, another for children, a Jacuzzi, a tennis court, a garden area and a spacious sun deck. The spa area is approx 1500 sq meters, including a water circuit, sauna, Turkish bath, Scottish shower and treatment rooms. --- Pousada Mosteiro de Amares *****, Amares Built in the 12th century as a Cistercian monastery, the Hotel Santa Maria De Bouro today offers the perfect combination of serenity and modern convenience, providing an ideal base for visitors to this beautiful area. The award-winning restoration, under the direction of famous Portuguese architect Eduardo Souto de Moura, has created a truly charming setting for your holiday. Amares offers an ideal location, between the historic city of Braga and the Peneda Geres National Park, meaning that you can easily choose to explore cultural sights and attractions one day, and the natural beauty of the Portuguese landscape the next. The local area offers plenty of activities, from walks, Jeep tours and horse riding to golf, paintball and swimming, ensuring that there’s something to suit all tastes. The Pousada of Amares itself offers panoramic mountain views, which you can enjoy with a glass of the excellent local Vinho Verde wine. In addition, you’ll find a range of outstanding modern conveniences, including an inviting outdoor swimming pool and tennis courts. --- Casa das Pipas, Sabrosa Situated on Quinta do Portal vineyard in the wine-producing valley of Douro, northern Portugal, this hotel has embraced enotourism with enthusiasm. Surrounded by a fabulous landscape of vineyards and fertile green countryside, join us to feel the emotions and understand the reasons that led the Alto Douro wine region to be considered World Heritage by UNESCO. Apart from learning more about the 1st demarcated region in the world and its wines, you can also experience some of the ways in which the vineyard operates, including participating in the harvest. As well as enjoying fine wines, you can maintain your exercise regime in the outdoor swimming pool. --- Quinta da Pacheca Wine House Hotel *****, Cambres - Lamego The charming Wine House Hotel Pacheca is located in the heart of the Douro region, insert in a beautiful 36-hectare private wine estate, and surrounded by vineyards. The typical 18th-century house has been restored with respect to traditional architecture and original features giving place to a charming hotel with 49 standard and superior rooms, including 10 barrel rooms for the best wine glamping. Each room is decorated in a modern classic style, with ensuite facilities and air conditioning. The hotel includes a tv room, a rest room, a bar, a wine tasting room, a restaurant with a privileged view over the vineyards offering some of the best traditional culinary of Douro Valley, an outdoor pool, and a Spa which includes indoor pool, Sauna, Turkish bath and massage rooms. From the hotel guest may enjoy walking along the rural paths and roads by the vineyards and wine properties of the region. Régua, the main town and capital of the Douro Valley, is easily reachable. --- Eurostars Porto Douro,**** Porto (blends Portuguese essence and tradition in every corner) With excellent views of the river and the Dom Luís I Bridge, the hotel blends Portuguese essence and tradition in every corner. Situated in an unsurpassed location, facing the Douro River and just a few steps from Porto's main tourist attractions, this hotel with its traditional style and classic design preserves the architecture and materials typical of the Portuguese city. Located just 290 metres from the Dom Luís I Bridge, on the picturesque and colourful Ribeira do Porto, the hotel offers a unique experience in the heart of the city, with rooms equipped to guarantee maximum rest after a pleasant stroll along the river.
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Airport Transfers at Destination
Transfer to Baiona at 11am Aeroporto Francisco Sá Carneiro (OPO), Pedras Rubras, Vila Nova da Telha, Porto 4470-824, Portugal If you are not at the airport by 11 a.m., the transfer will be at the client's expense or at an additional cost. Hour: according to the flight From: Hotel in Porto To: Porto airport Aeroporto Francisco Sá Carneiro (OPO), Pedras Rubras, Vila Nova da Telha, Porto 4470-824, Portugal
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Fully Guided
The entire tour is accompanied by a specialised cycling guide who will provide assistance with the bikes if necessary and a support van.
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Meals
Breakfast, picnics and dinners 4 wine tastings and visits, Caminha (exceptionally here there is no visit), Sabrosa, Peso da Regua and Porto
What's Not Included
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Additional Services
Transfer to Baiona if you are not at Porto airport by 11am E-Bike supplement: 200€ per bicycle
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Insurance
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International Travel
Optional Extras
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E-Bike supplement
Electric bike rental for all stages
Mode of Transport
Bike or E-bike
Mini-bus
Accommodation
Charming accommodation in idyllic locations
Check out our Q&As
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Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
We recommend a 23kg suitcase per person
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
Yes, but the pick-up in Porto airport to Baiona will be at 11am (31-08-2024)
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What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?
4 and 5 star hotels and farms
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What is the maximum group size?
16 pax
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
Children can take part in the tour, we just need to know their age. This is so that we can organise all the necessary conditions for the child to take part in the tour safely and whether there will be any additional costs (e.g. bus seat, bicycle seat/trailer, etc.).
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What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?
The trip is cancelled
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Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
Yes
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Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
You can find this and other information in the tour description.
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Does the tour package includes bicycles and equipment?
Yes. The tour includes: Per person - Hybrid bicycle, cargo rack, pannier bike bag and helmet One for two bicycles - lock, handlebar bag Per group/reservation - Pre-paid mobile phone, toolkit, first aid kit, puncture repair kit, pump, and spare inner tube, GPS device loaded with the trails and route notes with detailed information
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Authentic Trails, a company that has been on the tourism market for almost 10 years, prepares itineraries and accompanies tourists in Portugal.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If you change the date, you will have to pay a fee of 100€.
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What kind of bicycles do you have available?
We have standard touring bicycles that are included in the package price, and e-bikes for a surcharge and subject to availability. Both types exist with low frame and are subject to availability.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Individual tours receive vouchers for hotels and everything included (e.g. dinners, tastings), as well as access to our app where you can find the stages and points of interest. Group tours don't receive anything as they have a guide who helps with everything.
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Why should I do a bike tour?
A bike tour provides a unique and exciting way to experience the country
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
As the start date is the same, the companions will all be those doing the same tour
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
No, but in special seasons and incentive tours we promote solidarity campaigns, support for the homeless.
Reviews from travellers on this tour
1 Dates & Availability
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Saturday - Sunday
Aug 31, 2024 - Sep 08, 2024Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Authentic Trails allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 30 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Authentic Trails allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform authentic trails, 35 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Authentic Trails requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 31 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of authentic trails charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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