Douro Bike Tour

Suggested Dates: May, Jun, and Sep

Duration: 6 nights / 7 days

Accommodation: Luxury B&B, Mannor House, Port lodges

Daily Mileage: 65 km Average

Activity Level: Level 3 | Advanced

Tour Interests: Wines, Gourmet Cuisine, History

€3.781,00 EUR

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Bike tour along the valley of the Douro River in northern Portugal, sampling Vintage Ports, fine wines, peppery olive oils and spectacular scenery. So spectacular, in fact, that the whole valley was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This elegant valley is steeped in traditions that date back to the Romans but it wasn’t until the 18th C when port became the favourite drink of the English aristocracy that the Douro gained its regal reputation.

Your tour will take you through the most stunning landscapes with breathtaking views of this unique valley. You will have an opportunity to visit acclaimed wineries and to meet the oenologists. You'll tour the largest array of outdoor Palaeolithic rock art in the world, visit a traditional olive oil cooperative, and soak in the river views from our leisurely river boat cruise.

Your accommodations include the sumptuously decorated former warehouse of Taylor’s Port resting on the banks of the river and surrounded by lavender. This is a stunning 18th century “Quinta” (country estate), and a fabulous working manor house where everything is organic!

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Portugal's breathtaking Douro Valley on a guided bike tour. Cycle along the scenic terraces of one of the world’s oldest wine regions, where vintage ports, exquisite wines, and rich history await.

With luxurious accommodations, gourmet cuisine, and visits to historic estates and olive oil cooperatives, this tour offers the perfect blend of sport, relaxation and exploration.

Discover why the Douro is a must-see for wine lovers, culture enthusiasts, and cyclists seeking a unique experience amidst stunning landscapes.

Highlights

Cruise the Douro River through steep, vineyard-covered valleys, soaking in the tranquility of Portugal’s most scenic waterway.
Ride quiet country roads along terraced hillsides, through the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage wine region.
Visit Magellan’s birthplace in the village of Sabrosa, and trace the legacy of Portugal’s great explorers.
Taste rare Ports and bold reds at family-owned quintas, where winemaking traditions stretch back generations.
Savor golden olive oils at a traditional press surrounded by almond and olive groves.
Discover prehistoric rock art carved into open-air cliffs at Foz Côa, one of Europe’s most extraordinary archaeological sites.
Unwind in riverside retreats that blend elegance, comfort, and views that will stay with you long after the ride ends.
Dine in a historic Port lodge overlooking the lights of Porto, toasting the journey with world-class wine and cuisine.

Itinerary

DAY 1 – Cruising to Pinhão

We begin our journey with a scenic cruise along the Douro River. After meeting at our hotel, we transfer to the docks and set off downstream. As the boat glides past hillside terraces, you’ll see the renowned quintas (wine estates) of the region, each perched above the vineyards that produce Portugal’s famous Port and table wines. Lunch and afternoon tea are served on board as we make our way to Pinhão, where we check into the luxurious Vintage House Hotel, located right on the riverbank.

Activity: River cruise
Highlights: Douro River cruise, terraced vineyards, riverside estates
Accommodations: The Vintage House Hotel, Pinhão
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Afternoon Tea / Dinner

DAY 2 – Pinhão to Sabrosa Loop

After a morning bike fitting, we ride out along the quiet north bank of the Douro on gently rolling terrain. Our destination is Sabrosa, the birthplace of the legendary explorer Ferdinand Magellan. On the return, we stop for a tasting at Quinta do Portal, one of the finest wine producers in the region. From there, it’s a breezy downhill ride back to Pinhão.

Activity: 59 km / 37 mi
Highlights: Sabrosa village, Magellan’s birthplace, Quinta do Portal wine tasting
Accommodations: The Vintage House Hotel, Pinhão
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

DAY 3 – Pinhão to São João da Pesqueira

Today’s ride offers two options: a direct route to São João da Pesqueira, or a longer and more rewarding route with multiple crossings of the Douro River. The longer ride climbs through the vine-covered hills, passing sleepy villages and dramatic terraces with breathtaking views over the valley. After a scenic riverside lunch, we finish in the historic hilltop town of São João da Pesqueira.

Activity: 62.9 km / 39 mi
Highlights: Douro vineyard crossings, panoramic valley views, riverside lunch
Accommodations: Local hotel in São João da Pesqueira
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

DAY 4 – São João da Pesqueira to Vila Nova de Foz Côa

We head upstream today on a short but hilly ride toward Vila Nova de Foz Côa. The landscape becomes wilder and more remote, giving way to olive groves, almond orchards, and rugged hills. You’ll notice fewer vineyards and even fewer tourists. The hilltop village of Foz Côa offers dramatic views and a glimpse into a more traditional way of life.

Activity: 42 km / 26 mi
Highlights: Olive and almond groves, remote villages, scenic climbs
Accommodations: Hotel in Vila Nova de Foz Côa
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

DAY 5 – Vila Nova de Foz Côa Loop Ride

Today’s ride may be the most picturesque of the tour. We cycle through quiet backroads surrounded by old quintas, almond trees, and olive fields. The scenery feels timeless, with stone villages perched on hills and the ruins of ancient castles visible in the distance. This is Portugal at its most authentic.

Activity: 46.8 km / 29 mi
Highlights: Rolling agricultural landscapes, historic villages, castle ruins
Accommodations: Hotel in Vila Nova de Foz Côa
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

DAY 6 – Vila Nova de Foz Côa to Porto

We trade bikes for 4x4s and hiking shoes today to visit the remarkable Palaeolithic rock art sites near Foz Côa—some of the oldest known engravings in the world. Afterward, we sample local olive oils and wines before boarding a scenic train back to Porto. The day ends with a walk along the UNESCO-listed waterfront and a farewell dinner at Taylor’s Port Lodge, with unforgettable views over the Douro and Porto by night.

Activity: 4x4 tour and walking excursion
Highlights: Prehistoric rock art, olive oil tasting, Port wine dinner
Accommodations: Hotel in Porto
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

DAY 7 – Farewell

After breakfast, we offer shuttles to the airport, train station, or bus station. If you’re extending your stay in Porto, we’re happy to help you plan your time. With its vibrant neighborhoods, world-class food, and riverside charm, Porto is a perfect place to linger.

Activity: Departure
Highlights: Morning transfer, optional extended stay in Porto
Meals: Breakfast

Included

Hybrid or Road bicycle hire for the tour duration (e-bikes or race bikes available as optional extras).
Daily breakfasts, 3 lunches, 6 dinners, and en route snacks available at all times from the van.
Carefully selected local wine or beer with every delicious meal.
Expert guides with extensive local knowledge, who go above and beyond to cater to your every need.
Entrance fees to all scheduled historic sites, museums, and scenic natural parks.
Pick up and drop off before and after your tour from convenient locations.

At times routes, hotels, activities, etc. may change if required to ensure or improve the trip experience.

FAQ

What is the food like on this tour?
Expect a celebration of northern Portuguese cuisine cod, slow-roasted meats, rustic stews, and indulgent desserts. Meals are paired with renowned Douro wines and often enjoyed in stunning vineyard settings or historic lodges.

When is the best time to travel?
The ideal seasons are May to June and September to October, when the Douro Valley enjoys mild temperatures, golden light, and grape harvests.

What type of bike is recommended?
A touring road or gravel bike is ideal for the region’s paved country roads and scenic climbs. E-bikes are available and offer extra support for tackling the valley’s hills while still enjoying a relaxed ride. Note that there a cobbled sections through many towns!

How challenging is the cycling?
This is a moderate to challenging level tour with rewarding climbs and breathtaking descents. Daily distances range from 40 to 65 km (25 to 40 mi), with longer options available. A support vehicle is always nearby, and routes can be tailored to suit your comfort level.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends in Porto, with transfers included to and from the start and finish points in the Douro Valley.