Portuguese Coastal Escape

Day 1: Porto to Aveiro (approx. 80 km / 50 miles)

 

Morning:

·      Start in Porto: Begin your trip with a tour of Porto’s historic center. Visit the Dom Luís I Bridge and the Ribeira District. Take in the views of the Douro River and the famous Port wine cellars.

·      Ride to Aveiro: After breakfast, hit the road towards Aveiro, known as the “Venice of Portugal” for its network of canals and colorful boats.

 

Lunch:

·      Lunch in Aveiro: Once you arrive, enjoy a seafood lunch in one of the town’s many traditional restaurants. Try local specialties such as ovos moles, a popular Portuguese dessert.

 

Afternoon:

·      Explore Aveiro: Take a walk around the charming town, visiting its canals, art nouveau buildings, and the vibrant Costa Nova beach with its striped beach houses.

·      Relax in Costa Nova: Head to the nearby beach, perfect for relaxing or a coastal stroll.

 

Overnight:

 

·      Stay in Aveiro: Settle in for the night at a cozy boutique hotel by the water or a beachside inn.

 

Day 2: Aveiro to Figueira da Foz (approx. 100 km / 62 miles)

 

Morning:

·      Depart Aveiro: After breakfast, start your ride along the scenic coastal route towards Figueira da Foz, a popular beach town.

·      Scenic Stops: On your way, make a quick stop at Praia de Mira for ocean views and a short break along the Atlantic coast.

 

Lunch:

 

·      Arrive in Figueira da Foz: Enjoy lunch in Figueira da Foz, known for its wide sandy beaches and vibrant seaside atmosphere.

 

Afternoon:

 

·      Explore Figueira da Foz: Visit the Buarcos Fortress, and take a leisurely walk along the expansive Praia da Claridade. You can also explore the town’s casinos or relax at the beach.

 

Overnight:

 

·      Stay in Figueira da Foz: Choose from beachfront hotels or charming guesthouses in town for your overnight stay.

 

Day 3: Figueira da Foz to Nazaré (approx. 90 km / 56 miles)

 

Morning:

 

·      Ride to Nazaré: Depart Figueira da Foz and continue your coastal journey south towards Nazaré, famous for its giant waves and surf culture.

·      Stop in São Pedro de Moel: On the way, take a break in the picturesque village of São Pedro de Moel, known for its dramatic cliffs and coastal views.

 

Lunch:

 

·      Lunch in Nazaré: Arrive in Nazaré and enjoy a seafood lunch at a restaurant overlooking the ocean.

 

Afternoon:

 

·      Explore Nazaré: Head up to the Sítio viewpoint for panoramic views of the Praia do Norte, where surfers tackle some of the largest waves in the world. Stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, visit the local market, or relax by the beach.

 

Overnight:

 

·      Stay in Nazaré: Spend the night in a seafront hotel or charming bed and breakfast.

 

Day 4: Nazaré to Coimbra via Alcobaça (approx. 130 km / 81 miles)

 

Morning:

 

·      Depart Nazaré: Head inland towards Alcobaça, home to the Monastery of Alcobaça, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Portugal’s most impressive historical landmarks.

 

Lunch:

 

·      Lunch in Alcobaça: After visiting the monastery, enjoy lunch in a traditional restaurant in town, sampling regional dishes like leitão assado (roast suckling pig).

 

Afternoon:

 

·      Ride to Coimbra: Continue your ride to Coimbra, a city rich in history, culture, and home to one of Europe’s oldest universities.

·      Explore Coimbra: Visit the University of Coimbra, including the Joanina Library and the Royal Palace, both filled with history and architectural beauty. Stroll through the old town and along the Mondego River.

 

Overnight:

 

·      Stay in Coimbra: Choose a boutique hotel or historic guesthouse near the university or the old town.

 

Day 5: Coimbra to Porto (approx. 120 km / 75 miles)

 

Morning:

 

·      Depart Coimbra: Start your return ride to Porto, enjoying scenic countryside routes.

·      Stop in Arouca: On your way, stop in the charming town of Arouca, famous for its monastery and the Arouca Geopark.

 

Lunch:

 

·      Lunch in Arouca: Enjoy a traditional Portuguese meal before continuing your journey back to Porto.

 

Afternoon:

 

·      Return to Porto: Arrive in Porto for a relaxing afternoon. Spend your time revisiting your favorite spots in the city or unwinding along the banks of the Douro River.

 

Overnight:

 

·      Final Night in Porto: If your plans allow, spend the night in Porto, enjoying a farewell dinner in one of the city’s renowned restaurants.