Portugal by bike: wines of Alentejo
Description
Welcome to this exciting guided cycling tour through the beautiful Alentejo! Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich history, culture and traditions of this world-renowned wine region.
Over the course of a week, you will explore the scenic hills, visit local wineries and discover the UNESCO World Heritage cities of Évora, Vila Viçosa and Monsaraz. At every turn, you’ll uncover the authenticity of the whitewashed villages, imposing medieval castles and sun-drenched plains that characterise the Alentejo.
Recognised as the World’s Best Wine Region in 2014, Alentejo will offer you not only a unique cycling experience but also the chance to taste exquisite local wines and savour the region’s delicious gastronomy. From convents to fine restaurants, every stop will be an opportunity to blend luxury with authenticity.
The car-free routes and varied terrain make the Alentejo a paradise for both novice and seasoned cyclists. You’ll have time to pause and explore the charming Sobreiros (cork oaks) and Antas (dolmens) along the way, immersing yourself in the rural life of local farms.
The Alqueva Reservoir and the Esporão Wine & Olive Oil Estate will be key highlights, giving you the chance to experience Europe’s largest artificial lake and explore one of the region’s leading wineries.
In short, this cycling journey through the Alentejo promises a week full of adventure, discoveries and culinary delights. Get ready to fall in love with the beauty and authenticity of this corner of Portugal!
Included:
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Comfortable transfer from the airport or your hotel to the starting point of the journey.
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Daily guided excursions with expert local cyclists, always adapted to your own pace.
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Accommodation for 6 nights in charming 5-star hotels, double/twin room with breakfast included.
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Delicious lunches and dinners in carefully selected restaurants.
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Quality nutrition and hydration supplies by Zipvit during the rides.
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Access to museums, wineries and other key experiences included in the package.
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Road or hybrid bike hire (Scott Addict 20 or Scott Aspect 930 model), with GPS and helmet.
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Mechanical assistance and support vehicle for added peace of mind.
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Transport of your luggage between the different hotels.
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Personal accident insurance cover.
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Wine-tasting experience and winery visits.
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Fascinating boat trip on the Alqueva Reservoir.
Itinerary
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Itinerary: From 40 to 100 km
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Stay: Vila Galé Alter Real Hotel
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Dinner: Gastronomic experience at the hotel’s INEVITÁVEL restaurant.
Start from the airport or Lisbon with a 2.5-hour transfer to the Vila Galé Alter Real Hotel. Bike fitting and set-off on your ride through the Alentejo, heading towards the medieval town and fortress of Castelo de Vide, with a short stop for coffee. Continue the journey up to the summit of the fortified village of Marvão. Explore its narrow alleyways, visit the castle and the 9th-century cistern, and enjoy the stunning views over the beautiful Serra de São Mamede. Lunch will be served halfway through the ride. Return to Crato via the picturesque Beirã region. Free afternoon to relax at the hotel.
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Route: Between 40 and 80 km
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Accommodation: Alentejo Marmoris
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Dinner: Dinner at the charming restaurant of the Marmoris hotel.
Breakfast at the hotel and start of the bike tour from Alter do Chão, exploring the rolling hills of northern Alentejo until reaching another medieval village: Estremoz, where lunch will be served. Afterwards, we head to the marble capital of Portugal, the city of Vila Vicosa. Enjoy the afternoon exploring the city or relaxing at the charming hotel.
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Route: Between 40 and 80 km
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Stay: Alentejo Marmoris
Breakfast at the hotel. Start of the bike tour to the Border Town of the Garrison and Elvas, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. After a brief visit to the town and its churches, we continue to Juromenha Castle on the Guadiana River, which serves as a natural border with Spain.
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Route: Between 40 and 110 km
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Accommodation: Convento Espinheiro
Breakfast at the hotel. Start of the bike tour to Monsaraz, with spectacular views of Lake Alqueva. After lunch, transfer to Évora to check in at the luxurious 5-star Convento Espinheiro hotel.
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Route: Between 0 and 50 km
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Accommodation: Convento Espinheiro
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Dinner: Dinner at the Fialho restaurant in Évora
Breakfast at the hotel. Optional start of the day's bike tour, a ride to Arraiolos, an impressive white fortification on the outskirts of Évora, famous for its wool carpets. Cycle through the central plains of the Alentejo, enjoying views of cork oaks, olive trees, and cattle grazing on large estates called Herdades. Lunch at a renowned winery. Free afternoon to explore and shop in Évora and visit its impressive monuments.
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Transfer to Lisbon (airport or hotel) to conclude the trip.
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