Cultural Holidays in Spain

Before discussing the trip, let me say having Miguel lead it made all the difference! His overall bike touring, cultural knowledge and biking experience…. and enthusiasm made a huge difference.
For me the experience was a bit different because Miguel led my tour a year ago ( Cycling Girona and the Catalan Coast). It was a surprise reunion when we coincidentally met again at the hotel in Barcelona for this trip.
It was a great group-lots of laughs and banter. Everyone got along very well, and the rides each day were different and often spectacular.

james schnitzer Cycling the Mediterranean Coast in Spain

This was our 3rd trip along the Portuguese Atlantic coast, having done the other two coastal rides in previous years. It made sense to complete the northern end of the coastal route. It didn’t disappoint. It was a treat.
Cycling from Porto northwards towards the Spanish border ( a short boat trip across the river in very small boat complete with bikes), cycling had been fairly easy on a flattish but at times, windy terrain.
Portuguese cobbles in some villages were a regular conversation piece. The scenery was wonderful.
In Spain it became hotter and more hilly, but only one day of note with 3 increasingly sweat inducing climbs. Throughout we had lovely views, and changing terrain, welcome shade with off road trails were a regular part of this enjoyable ride.
As we were following the Portuguese Coastal Camino route, we shared it with friendly hikers, and chatted or shared the ‘Buen Camino’ greetings, as we gave each other space to pass. It made for a lovely relaxed cycling week.
Hotels were all pretty reasonable with the highlight being outside of Padron on day 5, in a lovely county retreat.
Regular coffee and lunch breaks meant weight loss was unlikely, and the route was such that we had time for an afternoon cold drink before reaching the next hotel at a reasonable time. It was probably helped by being a small group of that cycled at a similar pace, lead by an excellent guide, Alfonso.

Gail Hopper Cycle the Coastal Portuguese Camino

This trip is great for anyone looking for great food, coastal beaches and small towns with amazing architecture

Rick de Jongh Cycling the Mediterranean Coast in Spain