Multi Day Bike Tour Sustainable Winter

Crossing the Border – Portugal and Spain

A Peek into the Iberian Peninsula

Duration

8 days

Distance

250 km

Level

Medium+

Location

Alentejo

cycling on border of Spain and Portugal
  • This bike tour takes you through beautiful landscapes in Portugal and Spain.
  • 4 border crossings…but no border control.
  • Marvão, the most special castle in Portugal to me!
  • Elvas, classified by UNESCO as World Heritage Site
  • Delicious Portuguese gastronomy, always present at our unique gourmet picnics and selected restaurants.
  • One of our most sustainable tours

Most nights are spent in beautiful, charming hotels. Along the way you’ll ride through the dramatic hilltop castle of Marvão, the medieval streets of Castelo de Vide, and the fortified city of Elvas (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). With the Guadiana River marking the frontier, this is a rare cycling week where you’ll bike in both Portugal and Spain.

Two countries, one itinerary with four border crossings and zero border hassle.

Meet the warm (if initially shy) Alentejo people, enjoy Mediterranean-style gastronomy, and discover local crafts: cork, marble, olive oil and more. And the wine? Come and judge for yourself.

If this trip is too tough for you, choose our E-bike option


SUSTAINABILITY

  • Visit to small hamlets
  • Locally owned small hotels in most places – and you can choose all, if you want
  • Small producers, with very few visitors – boost local economy
  • Our company is local and we employ local people only
  • All our other Green policies apply to this trip as well. Read them here

Program

The perfect itinerary for you

Visit 2 countries in one week

Welcome to Portugal



Transfer from airport (included in PLUS tours)


The medieval village of Marvão, perched on a hill with stunning views and a beautiful castle, is the perfect start. From here, only downhill is possible!

Take some time to relax, explore the village streets, or enjoy the scenery before the evening activities. Enjoy the outside jaccuzy at the hotel.

At 6 p.m., gather for a welcome drink, a chance for all participants to meet fellow travelers, get an overview of the upcoming routes, and kick off your Portuguese adventure in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.


This tour is designed for fit people. If you are not, you must rent an e-bike


Food & Tasting
  • Welcome drink
  • Dinner (included in PLUS tours)

Accommodation

Pousada de Marvão - located inside the medieval village, with outdoor SPA jacuzzi.

Cycling from Marvão to Castelo de Vide


We start the day cycling through the scenic landscapes of Marvão and the surrounding Natural Park of Serra de S. Mamede, enjoying breathtaking views and the charm of this historic region. The route continues toward Castelo de Vide, a lively village with a cosmopolitan vibe. Stroll the streets, enjoy a drink at a local bar, and explore the medieval castle.


Visits
  • Fortified village of Marvão
  • The Menir of Meada
  • Barona Brewing factory OR Barona Craft Beer bar
  • Olive oil mil of Galegos
  • Beirã train station
  • Castelo de Vide medieval castle and village

Food & Tasting
  • Local olive oil with Alentejo bread
  • Artisan local Beer
  • Picnic included (included in PLUS tours)
  • Dinner at local restaurant (included in PLUS tours)

Accommodation

A Burguesa Guest House - located in the heart of Castelo de Vide, blending traditional Portuguese architecture with modern comforts.


Cycling details

Distance: 61 km

Difficulty: Hard

Terrain: Secondary asphalt roads with some climbs

Total ascent: 750 m




Cycling from Castelo de Vide to Arronches


Today we head south through the Natural Park of São Mamede along narrow secondary roads, a truly off-the-beaten-track area with stunning scenery and few people. Ride along picturesque “postcard” roads with white-painted tree trunks, passing small hamlets and historic sites. The route continues through scenic landscapes before reaching Arronches, where you can enjoy a circular ride to see ancient cave paintings. A perfect end to a full and rewarding day.


Visits
  • Roman city of Ammaia and museum
  • Local winery
  • Alegrete village and small hilltop castle
  • Café dos Amigos

Food & Tasting
  • Local wine
  • Picnic Lunch (included in PLUS tours)

Accommodation

Monte da Esperança - A charming farm house surrounded by rolling hills.


Cycling details

Distance: 59 km

Difficulty: hard

Terrain: Secondary asphalt roads, undulating with some climbs

Total ascent: 530 m



Cycling from Arronches to Elvas


Get ready for a long day through quiet secondary roads, perfect for spotting griffons, storks, and scenic countryside. Cross briefly into Spain to glimpse cattle farms and the distant Castle of Alburqueque before returning to Portugal. The route passes through Campo Maior and features undulating roads, historic landmarks, and stunning castles along the way, ending in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Elvas, ready to explore tomorrow.


Visits
  • Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora de Enxara
  • Castle of Ouguela
  • Bones Chapel
  • Coffee Museum

Food & Tasting
  • Lunch and dinner at local restaurants (included in PLUS tours)

Accommodation

Hotel Vila Galé – A charm hotel in a restored convent from the 17th century.

OR
Quinta de Santo António - A charming estate set in peaceful countryside, blending traditional architecture with modern comfort.


Cycling details

Distance: 67 km

Difficulty: Hard

Terrain: Undulating roads

Total ascent: 525 m


Cycling around Elvas


Even if you don’t do the full 35 km out to the country side, there are plenty of cycling options.

Elvas is a beautiful city, rich in history and charm, and we dedicate a full day to explore it. Cycle through scenic streets, visit local museums, admire the impressive aqueduct, and explore two remarkable fortresses. For those seeking relaxation, the hotel’s gorgeous SPA offers the perfect retreat, making it hard to leave!


Visits
  • Elvas aqueduct
  • Local museums
  • Forte de Santa Luzia
  • Forte de Nossa Senhora da Graça

Food & Tasting
  • Lunch at local restaurant (included in PLUS tours)

Accommodation

Same hotel as previous night


Cycling details

Distance: 43 km out to the countryside / 10–15 km around the city

Difficulty: Medium+

Terrain: Undulating roads with some climbs

Total ascent: 450 m



Cycling from Elvas to Juromenha


Today we cross the border into Spain again, following the Guadiana River, which forms the natural boundary between Portugal and Spain and offers stunning views. On the Portuguese side, we cycle through farmlands, passing olive groves and green fields. For those with e-bikes or extra energy, a visit to the historic center of Badajoz is possible.

We stop in Olivenza, a village with a castle and a fascinating history, before returning to Portugal and continuing to the charming village of Juromenha. We recommend taking the local taxi boat to cross the river.


Visits
  • Olivenza village and castle
  • historic center of Badajoz

Food & Tasting
  • Picnic lunch
  • Dinner at local restaurant (included in PLUS tours)

Accommodation

 Casas da Juromenha - Charming guesthouse with a swimming pool, perfect for relaxing after a long day of cycling


Cycling Details

Distance: 64 km

Difficulty: Hard

Terrain: Mostly flat, with some climbing and dirt roads

Total ascent: 220 m



Cycling around Juromenha


Today we explore the charming village of Juromenha and its historic fortress, once an important defensive point against Spain. The route takes us through undulating terrain among forests of cork and holm oaks, highlighting why the Alentejo region is so renowned for cork production.

We visit the small village of Terena and its sanctuary, including a stunning castle and a marble-carved cemetery that feels both artistic and welcoming. After the ride, cycle back to the hotel with time to relax and enjoy the surroundings.



Visits
  • Juromenha fortress and village
  • Terena sanctuary, castle and cemetery

Food & Tasting
  • Picnic Lunch
  • Dinner at local restaurant (included in PLUS tours)

Accommodation

Same hotel


Cycling details

Distance: 73 km

Difficulty: Hard

Terrain: Undulating with some climbs

Total ascent: 630 m



Departure from your Portugal Bike Tour


Transfer to airport (included in PLUS tours)



Self-Guided

On a self-guided tour, you are free to explore at your own pace, following detailed route instructions and maps. You will travel independently, managing your own time and handling small bike repairs and maintenance on your own.

Before you set off, you’ll receive a personal tour and bike briefing by a local guide, giving you all the essential tips for a smooth and enjoyable ride. You’ll also have access to a personalized navigation app, making it easy to follow your route and explore the region confidently.

With 24-hour phone support, historical notes, and local dining suggestions, you can discover the landscapes, history, and hidden gems on your own rhythm, stopping wherever and whenever the adventure calls.



Van Support Plus

Van Support Plus includes all the benefits of Van Support, with added comfort and thoughtful touches. You’ll start with a personal tour and bike briefing by a local guide and a personalized navigation app, ensuring you feel confident and ready. Daily briefings guide all rides, while airport transfers and carefully prepared meals allow you to relax and enjoy every moment.

This option combines the freedom of independent cycling with extra comfort, support, and full meals featuring local gastronomy, creating a more indulgent and seamless experience.



Guided Plus

Guided Plus combines expert guidance with maximum comfort and culinary delights. Your experience begins with a personal tour and bike briefing by a local guide and access to a personalized navigation app. Every day starts with a daily briefing, setting the tone for smooth, exciting rides.

With airport transfers and thoughtfully prepared meals, plus the full support of our guides, you can focus entirely on the adventure. You’ll cycle through the region fully immersed in its landscapes, history, and flavors, accompanied by passionate guides and fellow travelers who share your love of exploration.



Map with routes

Tour costs & what’s included

This is a multi day tour

Compare Prices

Self-Guided
Van Support Plus
Guided Plus
Price per person (minimum 4 adults)
1 370 €
2 800 €
3 190 €
Price per person (minimum 2 adults)
1 840 €
4 100 €
4 830 €
Price per person (group tour dates)
-
-
4 100 €
Season supplement
April, May, June, October
145 €
145 €
145 €
From Jully 1st to Sep 16th and Easter
200 €
200 €
200 €
Single Supplement
Single**
515 €
515 €
515 €
Single April, May, June, October**
780 €
780 €
780 €
Single from 1st Jul to Sep 16th and Easter**
880 €
880 €
880 €

** Single supplement applys for a 3rd person in a group of 2.

Transfers
Airport transfer to 1st hotel - min 2 pax
175 €
-
-
Airport transfer to 1st hotel - min 4 pax
90 €
-
-
Airport transfer from last hotel - min 2 pax
175 €
-
-
Airport transfer from last hotel - min 4 pax
90 €
-
-
Rentals
Bike rental
110 €
-
-
Gravel bike rental
170 €
60 €
60 €
E-bike rental
220 €
110 €
110 €
Extras
Departure different than Sunday
135 €
135 €
135 €
Food restrictions
-
90 €
90 €

We are happy to supply vegan and gluten free meals. If you require this options, please let us know at the time of booking. Produce for these meals are quite expensive, so we are obliged to charge an extra fee.