Cycling along the West Coast of Portugal, from Porto to Lisbon, is an opportunity to enjoy not only the beaches and fresh food, but also nature conservation areas, captivating cities and picturesque villages. Come and visit the pearl of the North, the city of Porto, whose former name "Portus Cale" is the origin of the toponym Portugal. It is a city full of rich history and culture. Whether to admire the traditional architecture or the avant-garde one, whether to enjoy a lunch by the riverside or a glass of port wine, or spontaneously wander the streets and get lost in the nooks, it is simply something not to miss and, therefore, the perfect place to start your adventure!
The Atlantic route is the largest in the country, offering a comfortable and memorable journey, crossing incredible natural landscapes, charming beaches and discovering its secrets along the way. Almost exclusively on bike paths, with few climbs and flat terrain, it is the ideal route to enjoy all that the West Coast has to offer. Beaches such as Espinho, Praia de Mira, Figueira da Foz and São Martinho do Porto, old fishing villages that continue this noble tradition, but, at the same time, they have been flourishing into cities with their own tourism, cultural and historical importance. You can also relax for a few hours in the sun listening to the sea or take a stroll along the vast beach to observe the blue sea. However, do not be afraid to explore the culture, to talk to the fishwives along the beach of Nazaré about their skirts or about the dry mackerels sold on the seashore. For those who seek out adventure, you should take the opportunity to visit the great Atlantic center of maritime tourist activities that is Peniche, inseparable from the sea, popular not only for its boat trips to the island of Berlengas, a beautiful nature reserve, but mainly for water sports such as surf and bodyboard, thanks to the famous waves of Supertubos beach (supertubes). Between forests and pine forests, between sea and land, enjoy the path and prepare yourself to cross the medieval gates of the beautiful village of Óbidos. Highlights include the enchanting Lagoa de Óbidos (lagoon), the most extensive of the Portuguese Coast, separated from the Atlantic, only by the magnificent Foz do Arelho beach, creating two worlds and a landscape of great beauty. In the priceless medieval town of Óbidos, Portugal's best-preserved medieval village, you will have the afternoon free to stroll, shop and take some photos of this beautiful historical place, once the favorite place of Portuguese royalty. The adventure can end here before heading to Lisbon or you can choose to know more about the West Coast in Ericeira, while enjoying the best beaches in Europe for surfing, or Cascais where its elegant 19th century architecture and idyllic beaches merge with fantastic events, all within a short distance from Lisbon.
Do not miss out the opportunity to go on a trip that combines leisure, culture, the enjoyment of a good fresh fish and the feeling of freedom, when you feel the sea breeze while enjoying the landscape, with the chance to get to know the history and traditions of Portugal better. Simply an adventure you cannot miss!
