Coimbra to Lisbon Cycling
Experience Overview
Embark on an unforgettable cycling journey starting from the historic city of Coimbra, meandering southward along Portugal's enchanting Silver Coast, and concluding in the medieval town of Obidos. From there, your adventure continues to the lively capital of Lisbon, where three nights are included for you to soak up the city's ancient allure.
Begin your exploration in Coimbra, home to the UNESCO-listed University, renowned for its breathtaking architecture and rich history. Stroll through its cobblestone streets and indulge in a dinner accompanied by a traditional fado show on the second night, immersing yourself in the city's vibrant ambiance. Cycling alongside the Atlantic, you'll traverse picturesque landscapes and charming villages, including the quaint fishing village of Nazare, where time seems to stand still amidst crashing waves and colourful boats. Discover hidden beaches, rugged cliffs, and awe-inspiring viewpoints that showcase Portugal's stunning coastline.
Venture inland to explore the walled town of Obidos, with its maze of streets and white houses, perfect for leisurely strolls. Don't miss the chance to sample the famous Ginjinha de Obidos, a sour brandy drink often served in small chocolate cups.
Conclude your adventure by travelling by train (not included) to Lisbon, where old-world charm blends seamlessly with modern sophistication. Wander through the winding streets of Alfama, admire the majestic beauty of the Belem Tower, and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant cultural scene, from bustling markets to world-class museums. While in Lisbon, take the opportunity to visit nearby Sintra, the former summer retreat of Portuguese nobility, or Cascais, known for its beautiful promenade and historic mansions.
Please note: Cycling helmets are a legal requirement in Portugal for anyone using an e-bike.
Profile
— 11 Night Hotel-to-hotel accommodation in a mix of *** and **** hotels — Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent — E-bike hire available on request (supplement applies) — Headwater navigation app
At a Glance
— 11 Night Hotel-to-hotel accommodation in a mix of *** and **** hotels — Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent — E-bike hire available on request (supplement applies) — Headwater navigation app
Group Description
As this is a self-guided holiday there is no group and no leader. A local agent is on hand to assist you and will meet you at the beginning of the trip to go through the routes and point out particular places of interest.
Eating Drinking
Portuguese cuisine is wholesome, hearty, and rarely fancy and relies heavily on the use of different herbs and spices due to its Moorish influence. Fish dishes are more predominant in the south, although northern regions often offer delicious freshwater fish dishes.
The region is also famous for sticky desserts that use egg yolk. During the Golden Age (15C and 16C), the area was very rich because of all the treasures that were brought back from the discoveries of the New World. These riches paid for many convents. The nuns needed egg whites to starch their habits so they used the egg yolks in many gooey desserts that have curious names like monk’s breast and nun’s stomach.
The Alentejo is also a highly respected wine region. The Romans were the first to start cultivating vines here. You’ll find a whole range of different vintages to try en route, the best known ones include Roupeiro, Rabo do Ovelha and Antão Vaz (white) and Periquita, Trincadeira and Aragonez (reds), although many small family run vineyards produce their own versions as well. The majority of the wines served in Portugal come from this region. If you enjoy a very young wine, try Vinho Verde from the North. Calcos do Tanha from the Douro region is a good red wine as are Cozinha Velha, Esporão and Ma Partilha from Terra do Sado. Try one of the many excellent ports as a digestif.
Transportation
Your luggage is transported from hotel to hotel for you.
Joining Instructions
The tour normally begins at the start hotel in Coimbra.
Weather Information
The climate here is long, warm summers and mild winters, with most rain falling in the winter months, but possible in all other months. Seasons are marked, with pleasant temperatures in the spring, in the summer and in the autumn. Heat waves can push up temperatures between mid June and September.
Highlights
— Scenic cycling routes alongside the Atlantic; pine forests and picturesque fishing villages — Explore UNESCO Coimbra and the medieval white-washed town of Obidos — Three nights in Lisbon; vibrant culture, lively markets and world-class museums
Trip Details
Product Code: 22695
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: for you.
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Exodus Travel
Supplier Code: C11PO
Starts: Coimbra, Portugal
Finishes: Coimbra, Portugal
Duration: 12 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Unknown
Includes
— Hotel-to-hotel accommodation in a mix of *** and **** hotels — All continental breakfasts and 1 evening meal — Luggage transfers between hotels — High Quality Bikes — Fado show day 2Accommodation
These are the standard hotels for our '' trip. If you'd like to extend your time at any of these or, if you'd like to enhance your stay with an upgraded room, just let us know at the time of booking. Early bookng is advised as during busy times we may have to substitute individual hotels for one of an equal or superior standard.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $3,790 ($316 /day)
Itinerary
Arrive at your hotel in Coimbra.
After a morning briefing and bike delivery you are free to explore Coimbra. Stroll along the Mondego river and marvel at the majestic Baroque Joanina library within the historic university. Delve into the rich art collection at Museo de Castro, housed within the splendid Bishop's Palace, acclaimed as one of Portugal's finest and wander through the bustling streets and verdant plazas, each offering a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. In the evening a traditional fado show is included showcasing the soulful melodies of Portugal, followed by an evening meal in a traditional restaurant.
Cycle along the fertile valley of the Mondego River from Coimbra to Figueira do Foz. As you pedal through picturesque landscapes of farmland and rice fields, make a delightful stop at Montemor o Velho, nestled midway along your route. Here, indulge in a leisurely lunch and immerse yourself in history as you explore the ancient castle, a monument dating back to 1088, predating even the existence of Portugal itself. Then, resume your journey towards the coast, where Figueira da Foz awaits, boasting expansive sandy beaches.
Pedal along the serene cycle path that winds its way through an immense pine forest, stopping at Lagoa da Ervedeira, where the fragrance of pine trees mingles with the salty breeze from the nearby Atlantic Ocean. Beaches like Praia do Pedrogoa, nestled amidst the pine forest-covered dunes, offer a resting point before reaching Praia da Vieira.
Pedal along the Estrada Atlantica (Atlantic Road) through the remnants of the historic Leiria National Forest, originally planted in the 15th century to supply timber for Portugal's shipbuilding during the Age of Discoveries. Exiting the forest, trace the coast towards Sao Pedro de Moel, then bay hop towards Nazare. Witness breathtaking views from the cliffs above the fishing village and and relax in the timeless ambiance of seaside life, where fishermen mend their nets and sardines dry in the sun.
Stroll on the beach or past the sleek yachts in the marina, or head to Praia do Norte, famous amongst surfers for its giant waves, thanks to the Nazare canyon, a submarine geomorphological phenomenon. Wander the the narrow streets perpendicular to the beach to get to know Nazare better and take a break in one of the restaurants to enjoy a plate of fresh seafood. The beachfront is THE place to be for sunset - all the world is here - with an infectiously upbeat atmosphere.
Leave Nazare behind and head for Sao Martinho do Porto for lunch and a swim in the azure bay before a coast road leads on to the placid lagoon at Foz do Arelho whose colours range from emerald to topaz.
Your shortest cycling day, giving you plenty of time to a morning and, if you fancy, lunch on the beach before pedalling off past little fishing boats as you leave the placid lagoon and head into the valleys of sweeping vibes. Its a gentle climb to the medieval hilltop town of Obidos, undoubtedly one of Portugal's most classic walled settlements. Try Ginjinha, a sweet cherry liqueur, perhaps as an aperitif before dinner tonight.
Take the train (payable locally to ensure maximum flexibility) to Lisbon; before departing spend time explore Obidos where the castle walls encircle timeless white houses in sun kissed cobbled alleys splashed with flowers. Arrive in Lisbon where you spend the next 3 nights allowing you plenty of time to explore the city.
Head to Sao Jorge Castle for panoramic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River. Explore its ancient walls, towers, and courtyards steeped in history. Then, head to Alfama, Lisbon's oldest district, known for its winding streets, colorful tiles, and Fado music. Discover hidden gems like the Lisbon Cathedral amidst its charming atmosphere.
Perhaps take the train to Cascais or UNESCO-listed Sintra. Sintra boasts fairy tale palaces like Pena Palace and enchanting gardens at Quinta da Regaleira. Explore charming streets and try the local pastries, queijadas and travesseiros. In Cascais, relax on golden beaches or visit Fortaleza de Cascais.
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Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
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