Portugal

One of Europe's best-kept secrets! From its sparkling coastline to its terraced vineyards, Portugal is a cyclist's dream come true. Country roads lead through tranquil countryside, and you’re likely to share the way with a friendly farmer on his way to market. Sparkling whitewashed villages are trimmed in characteristic yellow and blue, reflecting the hues of the sun and sea. Cobbled streets wind through the old town centers, and azulejos (hand-painted tiles) decorate everything from palaces to the tiniest roadside shrine. A bike trip in Portugal is a journey back in time.

PORTUGAL BIKE TOURS

Colors of the Alentejo
The Provence of Portugal! Castles, cork trees, and fields of poppies in the traditional heartland. 8 days; 2010 Departures: Apr 10, May 8, Sep 12, Oct 16.

Costa Azul
Bike Portugal's “Blue Coast” to the Algarve, with five-star beaches all the way. 9 days; 2010 Departures: Apr 24, Sep 4, Oct 2.

Minho Grape Escape
Iberian biking bliss: Portugal's Minho wine country, Spain’s Galician coast, and the splendor of Santiago. 8 days; 2010 Departures: Jun 13, Jul 4.

Vineyards & Castles
Our grand tour of Portugal, combining the Minho, Alentejo, and a touch of Spanish Galicia. Special 25th anniversary tour. 12 days; 2010 Departure: Sep 20.

Praias & Palaces
Biking, beaches, and the palaces and gardens of Sintra on our easiest Portugal bike tour. 6 days; 2010 Departures: Jun 6.

Serras & Sea
Cross the south of Portugal, from the rugged Serra de São Mamede to the sunny Algarve coast. Our most challenging Portugal biking tour features 50-mile days and three metric centuries. 9 days; 2010 Departures: May 22, Sep 25.

The Azores
Portugal meets Hawaii on exotic São Miguel! Pedal the island’s dramatic landscapes, from the rim of an extinct volcano to the forested Vale das Furnas. 7 days; 2010 Departures: Jul 24.