I thought this was a really enjoyable trip with a great group of people and an excellent leader. The accommodation was very comfortable, the food and drink was good and of good value. Joao was really friendly and helpful with a great sense of humour and very supportive. He gave us clear instructions every day and explained the terrain and the timetable for the day. Felipe was also really good in his support role. The countryside is beautiful, especially as you go further south.
I was unsure about some aspects of the trip so I hope the following will help others: I think that, if you are a competent road cyclist, then there is no great problem with the off road sections. You can go at a speed that is in your comfort zone. There seemed to be a greater proportion of off road than in the notes but some of this may be due to the much slower pace on this terrain. The bikes are quite heavy but well suited to the terrain.
I was apprehensive about cycling on sand, as were several others, but Joao’s explanation of the technique made it fun and everyone did it successfully. There was less of this surface than I expected.
The other question is should you hire an electric bike and I would say, if in doubt, hire one. I used it on 5 hills and I was pleased I did. You don’t have to use it all the time if you don’t want to. I tried sandy sections with and without the electrics and I found the electrics helped to keep going a little (on the lowest setting) which is the key to cycling through the sand.
As a road cyclist this was an interesting mix of road and off road; it might not suit someone who just wants to ride on tarmac.
Lisbon
Lisbon Adventure Holidays
Peter Woolley Lisbon to Algarve Ride
William Murray Highlights of PortugalOur seven day trip, covering Porto, the Douro wine region, the city of Lisbon and beautiful Obidos was a fabulous introduction to this beautiful country.
Transportation was with a comfortable small coach, which did not involve unduly long journeys between our numerous destinations. Hotel stays were comfortable and well located in the towns and villages visited.
Our group of nine people were superbly led, guided, supported (and educated!) by the wonderful Carla Costa, who played such an important role in our overall enjoyment.
One of the very best tours I have ever experienced.
Raymond anthony Nicholas Porto to Lisbon Atlantic RidePorto and Lisbon are fabulous places to discover if you have a few days and love coffee shops. Lots to do there,lots to see,eat and drink. I could happily spend 3 or 4 days in each city. Some of the small fishing ports were fab too. On the whole it was a little too windy cycling along the coast and uphill but i’m glad I did the trip.
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