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2018
3
May
How to Plan a Self-Guided Cycling Trip in Portugal for March or April?

Question:

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Gwen

Has anyone cycled in Portugal? Likely I will be a solo cyclist but will have friends there at the same time. I could do a self-guided trip and my fitness level is decent for an almost 60 year old.
Hoping for a March or April trip.

Humans say...

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Most

Joanne
I landed there by happenstance in May and it’s now my fave country. I’m in 50s and an avid solo traveller. I don’t know about cycling but you will be safe. There were plenty of hills

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Gwen

Jo-anne Nugent Sexsmith Hills, yes. It is early enough in the spring here in Edmonton that I won't have much training time on the road. How about wind. I was worried about that

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Joanne

no wind in May
It was sunny and very comfortable

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Van

Portugal has some pretty steep hills in the cities but the countryside would be nice to do.this blog seems like a good resource :
https://travellingclaus.com/tour-cycling-portugal/
TRAVELLINGCLAUS.COM
Tips and advice for tour cycling in Portugal. Portugal is a good country for cycling.

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Gwen

Van Thank you for your link and for the tip about the hills. I see beautiful hilly pics of Portugal and think that will be tough to ride up. Claus' stuff and his writers are perfect.

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Amanda

Get insurance. My aunt fell and broke her arm in Austria on the final 2 km this spring.

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Gwen

Amanda Johnston-Perka Yikes, I will look into that.

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Gwen

I do like that kind of support. Does GAP Adventure do Portugal? I will look them up. Thanks

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Giselle

Gwen they probably do. They are all over Europe. One of my favorite vacations so far. Had one “challenging” bike day. And they warn you in the itinerary. You see sooooo much by bike then you would by train.

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Giselle

Did a cycle tour with Gap Adventure in northern Italy. Self led with maps. Just needed to have our bags out of our room by 8:00 am and they transported. Fantastic experience.

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Sharon

Check freewheelholidays.co.uk. We did Stockholm Islands with them and they were great. Self guided but they transfer your suitcases so only need to carry day use stuff. Excellent maps and options for side trips if you have more energy plus where to buy food etc. We used their bikes (27 gear Trek) and they were very responsive. The last full day was pouring rain and the agent called us first thing in morning to offer an alternative final day ride that was more suited to rain (we were using ferries to island hop). A solo traveller would be fine.
FREEWHEELHOLIDAYS.CO.UK
Freewheel Holidays - Cycling Holidays In Europe

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Aurie

Some of the folks from our bike club have used Pedal Portugal as tour guides and were highly recommended. A couple who takes small groups and are priced below the bigger bike tour companies.

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Lori

following

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Gwen

Lori Check out Van below

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Gwen

Keep the comments coming! These are most appreciated.

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Sanila

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A.I. says...

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Cycling in Portugal: A Solo Adventure

Portugal is a cyclist's paradise, offering a diverse landscape of rolling hills, coastal routes, and picturesque villages. If you're an avid cyclist nearing 60 and looking for a self-guided adventure, Portugal is an excellent destination to consider.

The Portuguese Cycling Experience

Portugal boasts an extensive network of cycling routes that cater to all levels of experience and fitness. From the rugged terrains of the Douro Valley to the coastal paths along the Atlantic, there's something for everyone. The country's mild climate, particularly in the spring months of March and April, makes for an ideal cycling environment.

As a solo cyclist, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and explore at your own pace. The Portuguese people are known for their warm hospitality, and you'll likely encounter friendly locals along the way who will be happy to share their knowledge and recommendations.

Self-Guided Tours

Self-guided tours are a popular option for cyclists in Portugal, allowing you to design your own itinerary and travel at your desired pace. Many reputable tour companies offer self-guided packages that include detailed route maps, accommodation arrangements, luggage transfers, and bike rentals (if needed).

One advantage of a self-guided tour is the flexibility it offers. You can choose to cycle leisurely or challenge yourself with longer distances, depending on your fitness level and interests. Additionally, you can tailor your route to include cultural stops, culinary experiences, or visits to historical sites along the way.

Fitness Considerations

As an almost 60-year-old cyclist, it's essential to consider your fitness level and prepare accordingly. Portugal's terrain can be quite hilly in certain regions, so it's advisable to incorporate hill training into your routine leading up to the trip.

Additionally, make sure to pack the necessary gear and supplies, such as a well-fitted helmet, cycling apparel, spare tubes, and repair kits. Staying hydrated and fueling your body with nutritious snacks and meals will also be crucial for sustaining your energy levels throughout the cycling journey.

With proper planning, a decent fitness level, and a spirit of adventure, cycling in Portugal as a solo traveler can be an unforgettable experience. Embrace the opportunity to discover the country's rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality, one pedal stroke at a time.









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