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  Cycling Portugal
 
Portugal is a place of great variety, starting with the historic and timeless city of Lisbon to the Atlantic coastline offering wind swept beaches and headlands. Head inland where the rolling countryside provides moment after moment of awe inspiring vistas. Of course there are always a few exerting climbs for those that enjoy the challenge and this area of cork forests and mountain fortresses can provide that. Top that with magical palaces and monuments from the past and you will soon immerse yourself in the spirit of the place. Luckily, with all this exertion, it is also a place you won’t go hungry. The Alentejo region, known for centuries as ‘the Breadbasket’ of the country provides many a peckish cyclist with a filling meal. With an evening glass in hand of the national tipple port, you will reflect fondly on the miles travelled.

  
Alentejo  

For 2007, our holidays cycle through the middle of Portugal, a rich fertile area called the Alentejo. This undulating terrain is home to a wealth of cultures and has seen some of the most powerful and influential of them settle here. Agriculturally based still, the artisanship apparent in everything from their famous woven carpets to their potent port is crafted with much pride. Cycle this area discovering the charming hilltop castle towns, its romantic Moorish legacy, the Roman mosaics and stirring monuments in the heritage city of Evora and of course the most lovely scenery. A country of explorers is waiting for you!

  
 Route Map
To see the route of the cycling tour, mouse over the named holiday below:
 
 


Below is a short round-up of the highlights of the region:

Arraiolos : Here the craftspeople have perfected the art of their traditional hand made wool carpets and these are displayed throughout its twisting streets. Some of these 17 th and 18 th century inspired designs might make the trip home like many a traveller through the ages. Some even hang in London’s prestigious Albert and Victoria Museum. As well, close by is the nature reserve and if you can fit in just one more castle, the town’s own 14 th Century fortress still has its Gothic arches and Manuelin clocktower all in working order.

Lisbon (Lisboa in Portuguese) - Enjoying Atlantic breezes from its shores, this capital of Portugal since its conquest from the Moors in 1147, was supposedly founded by Ulysess. Wander the old city quarters of Alfama and enjoy riding the Funicular elevator up these steep narrow streets. A lively city, you can always enjoy fado, the mournful national song at many a cozy night place or hit the wonderful array of museums that crowd Lisbon. Built on seven hills, exploring it will get the heart rate going but it will definitely be worth it.

Redondo : A lovely little town with the ruins of a 14th century castle hovering above, and almost like an even higher star floats the church of the Misericórdia.

Monsaraz : Lying close to the Iberian border, this enchanting town could make you believe you are living in another time, so medieval is the place. The steep city walls secure this history and date from the 16 th century. Here is a place to wander and the Gothic church and Palace of Justice are real treats to the architecture buff as is the 14 th century castle that looms above.

Evora: Once the residence of kings, Evora is a real tapestry of Roman, Moorish and Baroque influence, all of which has been wonderfully preserved in this UNESCO heritage city. The pretty narrow lanes spilling flowers are a delight to explore and the curved arched entrance takes one back to its Arabic heritage and you almost might wish you brought your toga when you explore the Roman temple.

Vila Viçosa: Resting on the orchard filled hillsides of this most fertile area; this town spreads out below its castle. So pretty is it that it was even given as a wedding present to Dona Brites, the wife of King Afonso IV. Here the former residences of the dukes and kings are furnished in this area’s marble and they are a delight to visit.

Estremoz: A most dramatic cityscape, its medieval castle imposes over the town’s cobbled streets. Due to its admirable strategic position in the area, the country’s monarchs flocked here to reign in safety and probably to take advantage of the warm sunlight that floods the area as well.