Cycling The Alentejo

8 Days - from $1071

Ride from the dramatic Atlantic coastline to peaceful rural villages

The Alentejo is separated from the rest of Portugal by the Tagus River and extends to the south where it borders the Algarve. The countryside varies from the open rolling plains of the south to the granite hills that form the border with Spain in the north-east. The character of the region is created by the blossoming colours throughout the year, from the green of the winter to a festival of flowers in the spring and the dry golden heat of the summer that is replaced by the agriculture of autumn. Our cycling takes us through the 'Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park' from the Cercal hills through the undulating scenery of cork trees, old farms and dams to the dunes and lighthouses of the coast. There is an abundance of flora and fauna to discover with over 750 different plant species and 200 varieties of birds whilst cycling along the peaceful traffic-free lanes of one of the most untouched landscapes of Europe.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Vila Nova de Milfontes. 2 Starting from the small village of Colos we cycle through farming communities and oak trees of Cercal before returning to Milfontes. 3 Scenic coastal ride passing the quaint fishing harbour at Lapa das Pombas to the picturesque village of Zambujeira do Mar. We also cycle past the Cabo Sardao lighthouse where we will be able to admire the stork nests on the high and impressive cliffs. 4 Circular route to Odeceixe, an attractive village with narrow streets and cosy squares. From the windmill on the top of the surrounding hills there are stunning views of the region and the River Seixe. 5 Beginning from the picturesque village of Reliquias we cycle along the Montado Ecosystem and through the Natural Park to the pretty coastal town of Milfontes. 6 Today we cycle from the district capital, Odemira, which sits at the end of the River Mira overlooking the harbour, passing through mining and farming communities at the foot of the mountains. 7 Our final ride along the coast takes us to the clifftop community of Porto Côvo and Ilha do Pessegueiro. Also known as 'Peach Island', the area has suffered at the hands of pirates over the years and the area has many abandoned forts. 8 End Vila Nova de Milfontes.

Mode of travel: Average daily distance: 40km (25 miles)No. of days cycling: 6Vehicle support: 100%Terrain and route: 70% tarmac on quiet minor roads, 30% non-technical dirt roads.
Group size: Min. 6, max. 14, plus leader.
Accommodation: 7 nights in local guesthouses.
Food: All breakfasts and 2 dinners included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $255.15
Trip Reference: MWA
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.