Madrid to Porto Bike (Spain's Castile & León to Portugal's Northern Coast) 6D5N, Fully Guided

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 24 km (15 miles), Elevation gain: 152 m (500 ft)
Level 2, Approx. 34 km (21 miles), Elevation gain: 183 m (600 ft)

¡Bienvenido a España! Your adventures kick off in Madrid, where the pulse of the city hums with energy, colour, and centuries of culture. But Madrid is just the beginning—this week, we trade the urban rush for the rolling, golden hills of the Spanish countryside, winding our way toward the stunning, vineyard-clad slopes of the Douro Valley.

Commencing our week-long adventure, we shuttle to our first lunch spot together—a treat before the main adventure gets underway. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the enchanting town of Alba de Tormes, a classic Castilian cuisine awaits with views stretching the horizon.

After lunch, your bike will be fitted and a brief introduction to riding techniques will follow suit before setting out for your first spin through the Spanish Landscape. The Tormes River sets the stage for your first biking route, hugging our path as we effortlessly glide past poplar trees through a mix of quiet roads and scenic bike paths. With wheels in motion, this route takes us deeper into the heart of the Iberian Peninsula where grassy plateaus stretch to the horizon under an endless blue sky.

As the day ages, Salamanca, the “Golden City,” unfurls out of the blue, our destination for the day. —Hotel Hospes Palacio de San Esteban is a stunningly restored convent brimming with old-world charm and the indulgence of modern luxury right next to Salamanca’s old town. On arrival, you may choose to unwind however you please— a walk through the magical cloister gardens, a refreshing dip in the hotel’s pool to ease your tired muscles, or simply bask in the serenity of the atmosphere.

With the sun lost to the day, we gather for a welcome reception flowing into a gourmet dinner. Relish bold Spanish flavours and international flair served beneath the glittering Mediterranean-laced decor— a befitting start to an even more unforgettable journey ahead.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 35 km (22 miles), Elevation gain: 335 m (1,100 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 58 km (36 miles), Elevation gain: 488 m (1,600 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 77 km (48 miles), Elevation gain: 732 m (2,400 ft)

After breakfast this morning, we set out on our trusty two-wheels, venturing deeper into the heart of the Castile-León region, through the awe-inspiring landscape of the Iberian Peninsula.

Just beyond Salamanca, our path skirts a vast, serene world of pastureland, straddled by towering holm and holly oaks. These ancient trees, carefully tendered by generations of ranchers and foresters, create a unique ecosystem where nature and tradition fuse. The dehesa (grassland), used for centuries as prime grazing land, thrives under the watchful eyes of those who harvest firewood and charcoal from its carefully spaced oaks. Beneath the shady canopy, Iberian pigs—famous for their rich, flavorful meat—feast on acorns and grasses, completing the perfect cycle of the land.

Cycling this postcard-perfect setting, the tranquil countryside occasionally gives off scenes of charming Salamancan hamlets, each more quaint than the last. At long last, our efforts are rewarded with a delightful picnic, where the star of the meal is none other than the delectable, melt-in-your-mouth ibérico ham. Afterward, the choice is yours: either continue the ride or hop on the shuttle back to the hotel for some well-deserved relaxation before the evening's adventure begins.

As twilight drapes the world in soft hues, we head into Salamanca, a city that feels frozen in time yet alive with energy. With its intricate sandstone architecture glowing in the soft light, the Baroque-style Plaza Mayor bustling with life, and restaurants offering the best of local cuisine, Salamanca enchants at every turn. A local guide will lead us through the city's iconic monuments, but make sure to keep your senses alert—this is the perfect opportunity to discover a cosy spot for tapas and a glass of fine red wine. The evening is yours to explore, and dinner, wherever you choose, will surely be unforgettable.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 35 km (22 miles), Elevation gain: 700 m (2,000 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 56 km (35 miles), Elevation gain: 884 m (2,900 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 71 km (44 miles), Elevation gain: 945 m (3,100 ft)

Kickstart your day with a flaky pastry in one hand and a steaming coffee in the other—fuel for the adventure ahead as we bid Spain adiós to en route to Portugal.

A shuttle zips us from the calm of the Tormes River straight into the jaw-dropping Douro River Valley, a place where nature’s beauty and centuries of winemaking intertwine. This valley, with its 2,000-year-old viticultural roots, is a spectacle of ancient terraced vineyards, carved into the steep hillsides since Roman times, cascading down toward the river in a stunning display of history and tradition.

Today’s biking expedition begins in Marialva, renowned as one of Portugal’s most picturesque gems. Here, we saddle on our bikes and pedal ahead, weaving through epic mountain scenery on course to our lunch spot for the day.

Following lunch, our journey continues through the rolling countryside toward Ervedosa do Douro. Here, the road less travelled awaits, passing through farmlands that offer an authentic glimpse of traditional Portuguese life. Our path twists and turns through idyllic scenes before gently descending to tonight's retreat—Quinta de La Rosa—nestled along the tranquil banks of the Douro River. This family-run hotel beautifully combines luxury and warmth, featuring a refreshing pool, a delightful restaurant, and exquisite wines crafted from its meticulously cared-for vineyards.

Following the day’s exertions, all eyes are set on the elegant dining room for a culinary affair featuring dishes whipped from locally sourced ingredients, with a tasting of the valley’s signature port wine to complement it all. Bom apetite!

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 23 km (14 miles), Elevation gain: 640 m (2,100 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 32 km (20 miles), Elevation gain: 732 m (2,400 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 60 km (37 miles), Elevation gain: 1,189 m (3,900 ft)

Today’s journey flows gracefully alongside the shimmering Douro River, tracing vineyard-laden roads that weave through gentle hills. The lush, humid valley—shaped by the nurturing embrace of the river and the nearby coast—presents a vibrant green landscape, a striking contrast to the arid hills we traversed in Spain.

Renowned for its production of port, the Douro Valley enchants visitors with its storied winemaking heritage, with many of these exquisite ports aged and bottled in the nearby city of Porto. As you explore, you’ll discover the region’s rich tapestry of other exceptional wines, including the robust Tinta Roriz (or Tempranillo, as it’s known in Spain), the velvety Touriga Nacional reminiscent of Cabernet Sauvignon, and the refreshing young Vinho Verde. A selection of these delightful wines will accompany your lunch and tasting experience today.

After a moment of sensual indulgence, you can either forge ahead, cycling along this mind-melting landscape, or take a shuttle to our snug for the next two nights. The Lavandeira Douro Nature & Wellness is an idyllic country retreat nestled in the heart of the Douro River Valley. This enchanting historic manor house, steeped in rural charm, rests on a family-run winemaking quinta (farm estate) and invites you to unwind in modern comfort, surrounded by dreamy gardens and a central courtyard adorned with fragrant wisteria and lush grapevines.

A serene time awaits at the hotel once you arrive. To unwind, you may choose to lounge by the pool, retreat to your soothing rooms, or indulge in a rejuvenating treatment at the Spa.

Later this evening, gather for a delightful dinner, savouring the region's flavours as the sun fades

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 32 km (20 miles), Elevation gain: 579 m (1,900 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 51 km (32 miles), Elevation gain: 914 m (3,000 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 66 km (41 miles), Elevation gain: 1,311 m (4,300 ft)

Arise to the morning with a steaming cup of coffee and a delicious breakfast before setting off towards the lush banks of the Tâmega River. Through the dreamy countryside, our route saunters amidst the scent of earth, dry grass, and oak leaves as we glide from one charming village to another, each adorned with quaint quintas and streets paved in colourful mosaics of dusty tile.

Our morning ride culminates in the charming town of Amarante, known for its stunning Romanesque architecture. The town features picturesque houses with ornate wrought-iron balconies that seem to cling to the edge of the Tâmega River. Here, take a well-deserved break from the saddle and explore the town’s tranquil centre in search of the perfect restaurant to enjoy lunch on your own. Afterward, you may choose to shuttle to the hotel for downtime or continue into the green hills that cradle the town for views of the sun-clad mountains and valleys

Tonight, we gather at the hotel, raising a toast to a fantastic week of adventure—one you won't soon forget. Dinner ensues afterward in the hotel’s exquisite dining room, accompanied by panoramic views for our final evening together.

ONE BIKING OPTION:
Level 2, Approx. 24 km (15 miles), Elevation gain: 518 m (1,700 ft)

This morning, we wrap up our adventure with one final spin along the winding Douro, taking in the stunning scenery one last time. If a slower pace suits your morning, linger over a leisurely breakfast, or soak up the morning sun in the tranquil courtyard or on the inviting pool deck of the hotel, letting the warmth envelop you.

Post breakfast, take your time to freshen up and reflect on the journey before bidding a fond farewell to your trip leaders. Then, it’s off to Porto, where your adventure comes to an end.

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