Average rating Cycle the medieval villages of Alentejo

Have you thought about spending your holidays in Alentejo? Nestled amongst olives groves and walnut trees, red-roofed and white-washed, the medieval villages are some of the most charming and picturesque anywhere in Europe. This seven-day tour will see you navigate between these timeless towns on two wheels, with mile upon mile of leafy lanes to explore.

Undoubtedly one of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes, the Portuguese region of Alentejo is also steeped in heritage. With warm winters and fertile soils Alentejo has long been an important agricultural area, with cork, wine and meat among its main produce. The Romans left traces of their occupation throughout the landscape, including the still-standing temple at Évora, now a UNESCO site, and the almost intact villa at São Cucufate. Then it was the turn of the Moors, under whom the region flourished; the mosque at Mértola is just one of the architectural gems they bequeathed. With mile upon mile of cork forest, rolling wheat fields, shady citrus and olive groves and a spectacular coastline, holidays in Alentejo are quite simply paradise for lovers of landscape and adventure.

This seven-day tour takes you to the heart of this fantastic region. Beginning in the walled hilltop town of Marvao with its storybook castle, you’ll head down ancient lanes lined with stone walls and cork oaks before a gentle climb up to Senhora da Penha. This little chapel is perched high on a hill with spectacular views over Castelo de Vide, a quintessential Portuguese medieval town with its rows of whitewashed houses stacked one upon another. You’ll then proceed to the town itself, located in the cool mountains of the São Mamede Natural Park. There’s a lot to explore here, from ancient houses and Gothic porticos to pretty squares with fountains and tempting taverns. The tour ends in Évora, a walled town with a wealth of Roman monuments and architecture, including the famous temple. So much to see and do, but rest assured at the end of each day you’ll have the chance to put your feet up in the pleasant hotels and Turismo Rural cottages en route; your baggage will be waiting for you when you arrive.

We think this is a great trip, but it’s only suitable for advanced cyclers. That means you’ll need to be in good shape and to have a fair amount of biking experience. The medieval village tour is 100% road (tarmac) cycling, allowing you to explore the landscape without having to do anything too technical. The pace is quite leisurely, with plenty of time to wildlife-spot, climb a cork oak or check out the historic villages. Unless you choose a self-guided tour though, you’ll be part of a group. The maximum group size is 16, with a minimum number of 2 participants. The average age on this trip is 30 - 50 but there is nothing stopping you coming if you are outside of this age range. Given that the riding is fairly intense, this tour is not recommended for children.

Getting there

You will be picked up from Lisbon airport.

Price includes

7 days with PortugalBike - Road Bike Tour with a Guide - Road Bike rental (BH L41 Carbon Spirit Ultegra) with helmet - Transfers from and to Lisbon Airport, Accommodation, 6 Breakfasts, 4 picnics, 6 Dinners, Daily energy-bars and water, Luggage transport from Inn to Inn, Car connections at some stages (when necessary), Liability Insurance, Personal Accident Insurance, Techno-Mechanical Assistance, First-Aid assistance on location, Permanent Backup Vehicle, Visit to the winery and wine tasting

If you opt for the self guided option, then the guide, backup vehicle are not included and the accommodation is on a half board basis.

Price details

Prices are per person, based on 2 people sharing. A single supplement applies.

Departures

31 Jul 2010 - 06 Aug 2010

25 Sep 2010 - 01 Oct 2010

16 Oct 2010 - 22 Oct 2010

Typical Duration

1 week

Comfort level

Refined (boutique or luxury accommodation and food)

Experience required

Some previous experience is needed