Portugal’s Incredible N2. How it all came about.

Portugal
December 10, 2024

Creating the Ultimate Cycling Holiday in Portugal

It all started with a dream—a vision of sharing my love for cycling and adventure with others. I had ridden through Portugal countless times, falling in love with its rolling landscapes, historic towns, and breathtaking coastline. Every turn in the road revealed a new story, a fresh perspective, and an experience I wanted others to enjoy. That’s when I knew: I had to create the ultimate guided cycling holiday in Portugal.

The Beginning of an Unforgettable Journey

I sat down with maps spread across the table, marking out the perfect route— The N2 Cycle Tour, stretching from Chaves in the north to the golden Algarve in the south.

It had to be more than just a ride; it needed to be a journey filled with discovery, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments. I wanted to create a small-group cycling holiday that was tailor-made for every rider, whether they were seasoned cyclists or first-time adventurers.

With the route set, I scouted every town, road, and hotel to ensure a seamless experience. I tested every climb, rolled through quiet villages, and sipped coffee at roadside cafés, imagining my future guests experiencing the same joys. My vision was clear—Portugal end to end, an immersive and rewarding bike tour.

Crafting the Perfect Cycling Holiday

I knew that for this journey to be truly special, every detail had to be perfect. That’s why I included:

  • Airport pick-up and return transfers to make travel easy.
  • Luggage transportation so riders could focus on the road ahead.
  • Handpicked hotels offering comfort, character, and secure bike storage.
  • A support van stocked with snacks, water, and maintenance tools.
  • A guide riding alongside guests to ensure no one is left behind.
  • GPX files for seamless navigation and peace of mind.

I wanted this cycling holiday in Portugal to be suitable for all levels and abilities. Some riders would push themselves to new limits, while others would take a more leisurely pace—both experiences were valid, and both would be fully supported. This wasn’t just a bike tour; it was an adventure cycling experience, a journey that felt personal to each participant.

The Route: A Love Letter to Portugal

Every town on the route held a story:

  • Chaves, where thermal waters and Roman baths greeted me with centuries-old charm.
  • Peso Da Regua, where the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley stretched endlessly before me.
  • Viseu, rich in history, its streets filled with echoes of Portugal’s past.
  • Serra Da Lousã, where nature embraced me with its schist villages and lush forests.
  • Serta, a hidden gem nestled between rivers, where relaxation and adventure met.
  • Abrantes, perched on a hillside with views that stretched across the countryside.
  • Montemor-O-Novo, where history and tradition intertwined beautifully.
  • Aljustrel, where mining heritage met agricultural beauty.
  • Quarteira, a former fishing village turned vibrant seaside escape.
  • Lisbon, the grand finale, a city pulsing with life and culture.

A Commitment to Responsible Travel

From the start, I wanted this to be more than just a tour. I embraced responsible travel, ensuring I partnered with local businesses, supported small cafés, and minimized my environmental impact. This small-group cycling holiday was designed to immerse riders in Portugal’s culture, making every pedal stroke meaningful.

Ready to Ride?

Looking back, I can’t believe how far this dream has come. From an idea sparked by my own love of cycling to a fully realized Portugal cycling holiday, it’s been an incredible journey. And now, I invite you to be part of it.

Join me for a cycling adventure unlike any other—tailor-made for you, filled with scenic rides, cultural discoveries, and the freedom of the open road. Love velo? So do I. Let’s ride Portugal North to South together.

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