Portugal’s Alentejo Coast Bike Tour

Your journey begins with a 45-minute transfer from Lisbon to the Castle of Sesimbra, a 12th-century castle that once contained the entire village inside its walls. After a tour introduction and bike fitting, we cycle to the impressive Cape Espichel for some stunning cliff views before continuing to the Beach of Meco, a famous Portuguese holiday destination to dip your toes (or more!) in the Atlantic. Have a delicious fresh-fish dinner and spend tonight in modern comfort at Four Points by Sheraton Sesimbra – ideal for relaxation after your journey!

Today’s activities begin with a visit to Sesimbra’s picturesque fisherman’s market and historical city center, followed by a short steep climb – call it a “warm up” for our hilliest day. From there, you’ll cycle through the lush greenery of Arrábida Natural Park, taking in its breathtaking views before stopping for a picnic by the sea. Surrounded by mountains on one side and the ocean on the other, the setting will leave you in awe. After a refreshing swim, we continue riding to the vibrant and prosperous city of Setúbal to spend the night at Rio Art Hotel.

The day’s bike tour begins with a visit to the vibrant downtown of Setúbal, followed by a ferry ride across the Sado River, home to a thriving dolphin population. After crossing, you’ll cycle through the Troia Peninsula, surrounded by the sand dunes of this former island, before reaching one of Portugal’s largest agricultural estates, Herdade da Comporta (tour included). Next, you’ll ride through rice fields alongside wild egrets and storks on your way to Portugal’s longest white-sand beach, stretching for over 30 miles! Go for a refreshing swim here or just relax with your toes in the sand. After lunch you can shuttle or continue pedaling to Santiago do Cacém where we check-in at the Hotel Santiago for the next two nights.

Choose your own adventure today! Enjoy a relaxing day by the pool; venture out to explore Santiago’s church, castle and Roman ruins; or join us for a bike ride to the coast. Starting with a nice downhill cruise through cork forest to reach a family-run olive mill that has been passed down through generations. Take a tour and tasting (included) before we continue cycling through Melides on our way to the coast to visit two distinct ecosystems of freshwater lagoons, both havens for wildlife. The route back up from the coast to Santiago features a challenging climb – it’s your call whether to ride or shuttle. Lunch and dinner are on your own today. The hotel also offers a cooking class for dinner (not included).

Begin your day with a worthy climb to the castle both for a glimpse into the past and to take in the fantastic views from the ramparts. Visit the last operating windmill in the region as you cycle out of town through lush green oak forests on your way down to the coast. Here, deep-blue ocean waters framed by schist cliffs set the scene for a beach picnic before we finish riding the final miles to the charming fishing village of Porto Covo. A short (5-minute) walk from the Porto Covo Hotel where we are staying will take you to more impressive beach coves where you can explore, enjoy a swim, or just relax in the sublime scenery of this stunning coastal region before we head out to dinner.

Our morning begins at a historic fort which once guarded the harbor against pirates, offering stunning views of Peach Island – a perfect spot for photos. Next, we visit a lively fishing harbor for a fascinating glimpse into local traditions. Watch fishermen unload their catches and see lamprey eels drying in the sun, followed by a relaxing lunch at a beachfront restaurant. This afternoon provides more time to unwind on the beach or explore the charming village of Vila Nova de Milfontes. Cozy into an enchanting riverside retreat at Monte do Zambujeiro farm at the end of the day, where the tranquil ambiance provides the perfect setting for the last two nights of the tour.

Our final day invites you to explore quiet dirt roads used by locals, or ride along scenic cliffs for unmatched ocean views. Capture the beauty of pinnacle rocks crowned with stork nests, hidden coves, and vibrant cliffs. Whether you choose the adventurous cliff path or the gentler asphalt road, the landscape will fill your eyes and your camera lens with unforgettable memories. A relaxed beach picnic beneath towering cliffs sets the stage for a tranquil afternoon. On the way back to Vila Nova de Milfontes, enjoy a final swim at Almograve’s stunning beach before we conclude the tour with the perfect end to an unforgettable coastal adventure – a fabulous sunset dinner!

Sadly, it is time to say “adeus” (goodbye) to the Portuguese Coast. After breakfast (included), we transfer you back to Lisbon, departing at 10am and arriving between 1:30 – 2pm.