Cycling Alentejo, Portugal - discovering the famous wine country on a bike

Duration
7 days
Guided Status
Guided
Difficulty
Easy
D-Score™
N/A - Unknown

Overview

Cycling Alentejo offers an unforgettable way to explore Portugal's famous wine country, known for its gastronomy, wines, and Moorish and medieval heritage. The region's laidback rural appeal and flat backroads make it accessible for road cycling and bicycle touring. Day 1 involves a transfer from Lisbon to Marvão, a historic hilltop village with a 9th-century fortress offering panoramic views. Marvão is ideal for exploring its cobbled streets and preserved castle. Day 2 starts with a descent from Marvão, passing through Castelo de Vide with its significant Jewish quarter and medieval streets. The route continues through rolling hills to Flor da Rosa, known for its 14th-century Monastery, and ends in Alter do Chão, a town with a 16th-century convent. Day 3 explores the rolling hills of Alentejo, crossing a Roman bridge to Fronteira and riding through vineyards and olive groves to Estremoz, a town dominated by a 12th-century castle and known for its marble and wine production. Day 4 involves a descent from São Paulo Convent (or Estremoz) towards Redondo and Alandroal. The route follows quiet roads through olive trees and vineyards, crossing the Alqueva Reservoir and culminating in Monsaraz, one of Portugal's Seven Wonders, a walled village with stunning lake views. Day 5 takes cyclists from Monsaraz towards Reguengos de Monsaraz, home to Herdade do Esporão winery. The journey continues through authentic Alentejo landscapes to Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city, rich in history with landmarks like the Gothic Cathedral and Roman Temple of Diana. Day 6 offers a loop ride from Évora to Arraiolos, famous for its handmade tapestries and 13th-century castle. This ride allows ample time to explore Évora in the afternoon, with options for wine tasting at renowned wineries like Cartuxa and Fita Preta. Day 7 provides a choice for the final morning: a ride to the Almendres Cromlech, a prehistoric megalithic monument, or a leisurely walk through Évora. A private transfer back to Lisbon concludes the tour.

Daily Ride Schedule

Day 1: Transfer from Lisbon to Marvão - Free day to explore Marvão

Transfer from Lisbon to Marvão - Free day to explore Marvão

Day 2: Marvão – Crato - Alter do Chão

Marvão – Crato - Alter do Chão

Day 3: Alter do Chão – Estremoz - São Paulo Convent

Alter do Chão – Estremoz - São Paulo Convent

Day 4: São Paulo Convent – Monsaraz

São Paulo Convent – Monsaraz

Day 5: Monsaraz - Évora

Monsaraz - Évora

Day 6: Évora – Arraiolos loop

Évora – Arraiolos loop

Day 7: Évora – Chromelechs loop - Transfer to Lisbon

Évora – Chromelechs loop - Transfer to Lisbon

Accommodation & Services

Accommodation

Hotel

What's Included

Airport transfers
Catering services
Accommodation arrangements
Bike rental

About the Alentejo

A dedicated guide for this region is not available yet.