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Viewpoint over the Douro Valley near Abelheira

Pinhão or Peso da Régua, the highlights of the Douro Valley – a region full of wine traditions, historic quintas, and delightful moments over a splendid glass of port wine.

Questions and Answers about your Cycling Holiday in the Douro Valley

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The cycling tour through the Douro Valley is classified as “athletic” and is aimed at cyclists with a good level of fitness. Each day involves tackling several hilly climbs, mostly on quiet farm tracks and low-traffic country roads. Along the way, you’ll pass gentle vineyards, historic towns like Peso da Régua, and traditional Quintas where the famous Port wine is produced.

The region is a paradise for wine lovers – the famous Port wine is produced directly in the historic Quintas. You can also enjoy traditional dishes such as bacalhau, hearty stews, or regional cheeses.

The best time to travel to this region in Portugal is from March to November.

Our New Cycling Tour in the Douro Valley

Athletic

In the heart of northern Portugal, this 8-day cycling tour takes you from Bragança to Porto. Along the way, you’ll discover castles, olive groves, and gentle hills, passing through untouched landscapes and charming towns before reaching the Douro Valley, renowned for its breathtaking wine terraces. Each day offers a mix of quaint villages, scenic roads, and exhilarating descents with stunning views. Culinary delights are never far away: savor regional specialties, enjoy a port wine tasting, and stay in welcoming accommodations that give you a true taste of local life. The highlight of the journey is a boat ride along the Douro to Porto, offering a unique perspective on the river and its cultural landscape.

Panoramic view of the Douro Valley near Mesao Frio

“The scenery is spectacular – the steep Douro vineyards are an absolute feast for the eyes. You want to stop every 300 meters just to take a photo.”

Andreas Schintlmeister

Andreas Schintlmeister, Head of Product Management

Product Manager Andi presents in the video: Cycling Holiday through the Douro Valley

Experience a unique cycling tour through the UNESCO World Heritage region of northern Portugal. In this interview, we present our new tour and give you a glimpse of what awaits along the way:

  • Medieval castles and historic streets in Bragança
  • Olive and almond groves, as well as villages adorned with roses
  • Scenic roads with views of vineyards and the Douro River
  • The famous Douro wine terraces
  • And to finish, a breathtaking boat ride to Porto

 

Sounds like a dream adventure? Product manager Andreas Schintlmeister, who personally developed and tested the tour, takes you along on the full Douro Valley cycling holiday in this video – let the highlights inspire your journey!

Useful Information about your Cycling Holiday in the Douro Valley

The Climate in the Douro Valley

For lovers of sun, wine, and nature, the Douro Valley is a true hidden gem. Hot summers, mild winters, and plenty of sunny days create the perfect conditions for exploring the famous vineyards and scenic river landscapes. Gentle breezes from the Douro River keep the heat comfortable, ensuring every day is enjoyable. Whether you’re hiking, cycling, or taking a boat ride along the river, the weather here is on your side all year round.

Vines and olive trees in the Sabot Valley

The Cuisine in the Douro Valley

The soul of the Douro is reflected in its cuisine. Alongside freshly caught river fish, hearty classics like Feijoada, Cozido à Portuguesa or Cabrito Assado take center stage. Many recipes are rooted in traditional farmhouse cooking – simple, nourishing, and bursting with flavor. A truly special experience is enjoying these dishes at a quinta, paired with a full-bodied red wine or a glass of sweet port. Every meal here becomes a small journey into the region’s culture.

The traditional bean stew Feijoada

The Culture in the Douro Valley

The Douro Valley perfectly blends wine traditions with Portuguese heritage. In Peso da Régua, the Museu do Douro traces the region’s long history of winemaking, while the Pinhão train station brings vineyard life to life through its iconic azulejos. At the historic wineries, or quintas, tastings offer a firsthand experience of centuries-old traditions which is especially lively during the grape harvest in autumn.

One of the tile pictures at Pinhao railway station

Did you know, ...

  • that the Douro region was established in 1756 as the world’s first officially demarcated wine region?
  • that port wine is originally produced in the Douro Valley, from where it began its worldwide journey?
  • that the Alto Douro was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001 for its centuries-old winemaking traditions and stunning vineyard terraces?
  • that the Pinhão train station, with its iconic azulejos, is considered one of Portugal’s most beautiful?
The Caves Burmester Port Wine Cellar in Porto
Antonia Kreiseder

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Other cycling holiday regions in Portugal

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From gentle river valleys to sunny coastal paths – your dream cycling holiday awaits. Secure your desired dates now and enjoy the early bird bonus until 28 February.

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Three cyclists cycle past the Drachenwand rock formation on Lake Mondsee.
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