A Taste of Camino de Santiago Luxury Bike (Spain's Atlantic Coast & Vineyards to Northern Portugal) 6D5N, Fully Guided

TWO CYCLING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 37 km (24 miles), Elevation gain: 427 m (1400 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 47 km (29 miles), Elevation gain: 640 m (2100 ft)

On the first day of the trip, meet your trip leader by 10:30 a.m. in the Santiago de Compostela train station, located at Hórreo 75A in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. You will find your leaders in front of the main arched façade with the ADIF sign. Please arrive dressed in your biking clothes and bring your luggage and a daypack with your rain gear and anything else you may want for today's ride (your luggage will be transported to our first night's accommodations). If you choose to change into your gear following our shuttle, please be aware that a proper changing area is often unavailable.

Welcome to Galicia! With its breathtaking mountains and picturesque coastline nestled against the Portuguese border, the unique province of Spain will captivate your senses with its lush greenery, melodious local dialect, and more. We begin our journey in the illustrious city of Santiago de Compostela, home to the iconic cathedral where the remains of Saint James lay. A destination for thousands of pilgrims each year, the city boasts several routes of the spiritual Camino de Santiago, all converging on Santiago de Compostela.

After a shuttle ride out of town, we'll meet with our leaders who will fit our bikes before a brief presentation on biking techniques and safety. Our first stop will be at a charming coastal restaurant where we'll indulge in some unbelievably fresh mariscos (seafood), a true taste of the local cuisine. From there, we embark on a reverse Camino, tracing the Galician pilgrimage route away from the bustling centre. The route follows the coast, taking us up the stunning Monte de Santa Tecla, where the discovery of the remains of a fortified village built by the ancient Celtic population of Galicia awaits.

We journey through the vibrant fishing town of A Guarda towards our final destination, the Parador de Baiona. This historic property boasts a privileged perch over the seaside fortress town and its white-sand beach. The castle's illustrious past includes serving as the observation site for Columbus' ship, La Pinta, as it arrived on Spanish soil with news of the New World.

Settle into your room before we meet tonight for a welcome toast and an exquisite first dinner together within the medieval walls.

THREE CYCLING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 43 km (27 miles), Elevation gain: 1036 m (3400 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 61 km (38 miles), Elevation gain: 1097 m (3600 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 72 km (45 miles), Elevation gain: 1707 m (5600 ft)

We fuel up with a delectable breakfast at our hotel before setting out on an awe-inspiring bike route. Pedal through the captivating Rias Baixas wine region and leave yesterday's seaside chaparral behind. The landscape transforms into a lush, green paradise of vineyards. With every hilltop view, the sea steals our breath away, just visible in the distance. Follow the road up through the magnificent Monte Aloia nature park, surrounded by a luxuriant pine forest, and experience the thrill of winding roads as we descend back into the carpet of vines. Our lunch stop at a local winery will offer you a glimpse of Galician culture and culinary delights.

Our next scenic route takes us alongside the Minho River, the natural border between Spain and Portugal. With our sights set on a new country, the opposite shore calls us for the ultimate thrill-seeking adventure. But for now, we'll rest up at our castle-hotel in Baiona, where the sea awaits for an evening dip. Take a short stroll to the lovely Baiona town for dinner on your own. Indulge in some Galician delicacies, like the mouth-watering zamburiñas (scallops) or the aromatic merluza a la gallega (hake with paprika and potatoes). And if you fancy turf to surf, sink your teeth into the divine chuleton de buey (beef steak)—Galicia's speciality. ¡Buen provecho!

THREE CYCLING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 43 km (27 miles), Elevation gain: 975 m (3200 ft) 
Level 3, Approx. 64 km (40 miles), Elevation gain: 1158 m (3800 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 69 km (43 miles), Elevation gain: 1463 m (4800 ft)

Today, we journey into the heart of enchanting Galicia and experience the magic of Ribeira Sacra wine country. Our morning shuttle takes us on a breathtaking ride through winding roads with spectacular views. The vineyards nestled on rocky mountainsides, high above the fjordlike expanse of the meandering Sil River, will leave you breathless. Get ready for an adrenaline-filled adventure featuring steep climbs and heart-pumping descents. Catch your breath and refuel at a bodega perched amidst the vineyards in the sky.

As we descend towards the peaceful shores of the Sil River, we arrive at the quaint winemaking village of Sober, nestled amidst idyllic woodlands. Take a moment to soak in the rustic-chic retreat of Áurea Palacio de Sober, where the pools are fed by natural thermal waters that will rejuvenate your senses.

As the sun sets, get ready for a special treat- a sunset cruise through the stunning Sil River Canyon. Raise a glass and indulge in the magnificent flavours of the region's finest wines. Experience the tranquil beauty of the landscape as we glide along the serene waters. As our journey comes to an end, we will sit down to another delectable dinner and reminisce over the spectacular beauty that we witnessed today.

THREE CYCLING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 50 km (31 miles), Elevation gain: 823 m (2700 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 66 km (41 miles), Elevation gain: 1097 m (3600 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 79 km (49 miles), Elevation gain: 1494 m (4900 ft)

Step into the charming world of Portugal, as we bid a fond farewell to Galicia and venture forth to the rural Portuguese region of Trás-os-Montes, which translates to "beyond the mountains". Nestled in the heart of the remote Barroso Mountains, this picturesque haven of isolation and hardship has now reaped its rewards, thanks to the United Nations' recognition in 2018 as a "Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System", which has sparked immense interest in local ecotourism. Delve into the local way of life, where the crops and meat are sourced from the land, water from village fountains, and bread from village mills. An age-old tradition of collective land stewardship has perpetuated sustainability while preserving the delicate ecosystems of the region.

Savour every bit of this serene haven with a cycling tour amid the breathtaking views and rustic beauty of the countryside. The quaint mediaeval village of Montalegre is our first stop, where the whitewashed buildings rub shoulders in a tapestry of undulating hills and verdant meadows. Our journey continues to a country restaurant where a tantalising lunch, brimming with local ingredients, awaits us. Don't miss out on the delectable polvo or octopus, a favourite in this landlocked nation where the Atlantic is never more than 200 kilometres away.

As we cycle into the afternoon, a grand spectacle awaits us in Vidago at the lavish Vidago Palace Hotel. The sumptuous Vidago Palace is a luxury hotel, housed in a century-old palace in the heart of the Vidago Thermal Park, surrounded by mountains and forest, with an atmosphere full of glamour and elegance. This palatial retreat stuns with its opulent Baroque features - a magnificent canvas of frescoes, grand columns, wrought-iron skylights, and expansive windows that bask in the natural light. A stroll through the lush manicured gardens invites you to indulge in the intricate beauty of the magnolia, lavender, and pines.

Tonight, you have the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely meal at the hotel's laid-back Wine Cellar. With its cosy, café-like atmosphere exuding a sense of warmth and charm, you'll feel right at home. And the best part? You can relish in shareable tapas that will undoubtedly leave your taste buds fully satisfied.

TWO CYCLING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 42 km (26 miles), Elevation gain: 701 m (2300 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 64 km (40 miles), Elevation gain: 1006 m (3300 ft)

We set out through pine forests this morning and descend upon the breathtaking Chaves town for an exquisite lunch on your own. A hidden gem located next to the border of Spain, Chaves boasts of a history that goes way back to Roman times. This charming settlement attracted settlers from far and wide due to its fertile plains and thermal springs. While you're there, make it a point to walk through the town's intricate cobblestone streets and marvel at the mediaeval castle and magnificent Roman bridge arching over the Tâmega river. After that, we will complete the loop back to the hotel with some additional climbing through quaint villages. For those in pursue of a challenge can embark on the challenging climb to Boticas on your journey back to the regal Vidago Palace. A once-in-a-lifetime experience awaits.

As the sun dips behind the mountains, retreat to the soothing sanctuary of Vidago Palace and take advantage of all that it has to offer. Sip refreshing cocktails by the pool, unwind in the thermal waters of the spa, or work on your swing at the golf course- the possibilities are endless (golf and spa treatments are at own expense).

As the week draws to a close, raise a glass to the captivating memories we've made in these remote corners of two spellbinding countries. Savour our last dinner together amidst the grandeur of Vidago Palace's formal dining room. Relish in the flavours of the delicious fare and toast to new friendships forged along this unforgettable journey.

Level 2, Approx. 26 km (16 miles), Elevation gain: 488 m (1600 ft)

After a week of riding through some of northern Portugal's finest landscapes, we complete our journey with a morning loop through the lush forest that surrounds our hotel, where oaks and stately cypresses are draped with ivy, moss and vines. If you'd prefer a more leisurely morning, savour a relaxing breakfast before a walk through the gardens or enjoy a morning spa treatment (spa at own expense).

Back at the hotel you can freshen up before bidding your trip leaders a hearty farewell and boarding the shuttle to Porto.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.