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Travel Story: Cycling from Lisbon to Sagres

From the capital to the cape: A cycling tour through Portugal’s diversity
Rugged coastal landscape near Porto Covo with red-brown cliffs, green vegetation, and blue Atlantic Ocean with white waves and small islands.

My first Team on Tour journey takes me from the vibrant capital of Lisbon to the westernmost tip of the Algarve in Sagres. Join me on this Eurobike Original Tour and enjoy my personal impressions, shared exclusively with you.

Rugged coastal landscape near Porto Covo with red-brown cliffs, green vegetation, and blue Atlantic Ocean with white waves and small islands.

Start of the Journey: The City of Seven Hills

Since our time in Lisbon is limited, we opt for a hop-on-hop-off tour to take in the city’s impressive architecture, art, and culture. The bus takes us to the highest viewpoints, offering spectacular panoramic views over the red rooftops and winding streets.

Particularly striking is the view of the Tagus River and the historic cityscape, which changes with every turn. Of course, one day is never enough to truly discover all the beauty the city has to offer. Additional nights on self-guided bike tours are ideal for getting to know this gateway to Europe at a more relaxed pace.

A Checklist Before Your Cycling Tour

A checklist of essential items is key to starting your tour smoothly. During the informative briefing, all questions are answered, and the bikes are fully prepared in advance - from battery and gear system to the right accessories.

A properly fitting helmet is crucial for safety and can be rented directly from Eurobike if needed. Comfortable, breathable clothing, padded cycling shorts, a functional jersey, as well as sunscreen and sunglasses are an absolute must - especially in Portugal. And even though rain is rare in summer, weatherproof clothing is still recommended.

With this preparation, nothing will stand in the way of an unforgettable cycling tour!

Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon with ornate Manueline architecture, featuring a bell tower and decorative facade under clear blue sky.

The Adventure Begins: Cycling from Lissabon to Setúbal

After a hearty breakfast, we set out on our first day of cycling. From our comfortable hotel, we head to the ferry, which carries us to Seixal and marks the official start of our stage. As we cross the water, we savor one last glimpse of Lisbon from a unique perspective.

In Seixal, we pedal through charming villages, along gravel paths, and past the warm, reddish fields of Alfarim. The stage builds to a rewarding climb, offering a breathtaking view of the sea, before the final descent leads us to Setúbal after an exhilarating day.

The evening unfolds at a leisurely pace - perfect for a gentle stroll through Setúbal and to soak in the day’s sights and experiences.

White buildings of Portinho da Arrábida monastery nestled on a green hillside overlooking blue coastal waters under clear sky.

Along the Atlantic Coast to the Historic Town of Sines

After a leisurely, hearty breakfast at Hotel Cristal Setúbal, we set off for the day full of anticipation. A ferry takes us across to Troia - one small tip: don’t forget your ticket!

The first kilometers of our ride follow the breathtaking Atlantic coastline. The fresh sea breeze and the rhythmic sound of the waves accompany us, and we frequently pause to explore the stunning beaches along the way.

Around midday, we stop at a charming restaurant in Melides. Friendly staff and delicious food leave nothing to be desired.

Refreshed and energized, we continue our ride. The sunshine bathes the landscape in a warm, golden glow as we pedal at a relaxed pace toward Sines.

In the evening, we take a stroll along the beach to stretch our legs and are rewarded with a spectacular sunset. The day ends at a restaurant right next to Hotel Veleiro, where we indulge in a delightful culinary experience.

Rocky coastline near Sines with colorful succulent plants in foreground, dark volcanic rocks, and blue Atlantic Ocean under partly cloudy sky.

Wind and Rain Toward Aljezur

After a restful evening in Vila Nova de Milfontes and plenty of sleep, we set off on the next, longer stage to Aljezur. This tour is one of our favorites thanks to its variety- and it’s home to our personal favorite spot along the route.

We start along the country road before making our first stop in Almograve. Praia do Almograve captivates with its fine sand and dramatic cliffs in the background. In summer, the beach is said to be quite popular.

Next, we continue to São Teotónio, where a breathtaking stretch along the cliffs awaits. After a pause in São Teotónio, we are briefly caught in a rain shower on the way to Odeceixe - fortunately, it passes quickly, so we don’t miss the stunning beach there.

From there, we cycle on without any further stops. The evening ends in a cozy Italian restaurant, where we enjoy delicious pizzas and recharge our energy for the final stage toward Sagres.

The Final Stage to Sagres

Goodbyes are never easy, but we savor our last day of cycling and look back on an incredible journey. The stage takes us across the Carrapateira Peninsula, where we watch surfers riding the waves - and even encounter a little orange tabby cat along the way.

We then cover the final kilometers to Sagres, breaking through the morning mist to reach the famous Cape St. Vincent. Here, we refuel with the legendary “Letzten Bratwurst vor Amerika” - complete with a certificate!

The day is crowned with a spectacular sunset on the beach at Sagres. It’s a perfect ending, not only to an unforgettable day but also to a successful and adventurous tour that has left us entirely enchanted.

Sandy beach Praia do Amado with surfers in the waves, framed by dramatic red and yellow cliffs along the Portuguese Atlantic coast.
Beach in Aljezur

Conclusion

A cycling tour along Portugal’s west coast is a true feast for the senses. Whether bathed in golden sunlight or brushed by the fresh Atlantic breeze, the dramatic cliffs, shimmering beaches, and lush green valleys never fail to captivate. Combine this with the rich flavors of local cuisine - from freshly caught fish to the sweet, flaky perfection of pastéis de nata - and nature and indulgence merge into an unforgettable adventure.

My tip: Let yourself be swept away by the delights of Portuguese cuisine - it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.

My Favorite Place

The cliffs of São Teotónio are a sanctuary of breathtaking beauty and serene, almost meditative calm. Here, the noise and rush of everyday life fall away, allowing you to simply be by yourself. Birds glide effortlessly over the cliffs, and the view opens onto the endless, shimmering Atlantic - a panorama so vast it takes your breath away.

On a bike, you can get astonishingly close to the edge, making the moment both thrilling and deeply moving. The path is safe, yet it invites you to pause, to linger, and take in the raw beauty of nature. Here, freedom, openness, and tranquility intertwine, creating a moment that lingers in your memory long after you’ve left.

Cyclist on red e-bike with yellow pannier riding along coastal cliffs near Cavaleiro. Rocky cliffs and ocean visible in background.
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