50 independent reviews for Porto to Lisbon cycling holiday, self guided
Reviews for Porto to Lisbon cycling holiday, self guided
Stephen Fernandez review 7 Aug 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
So many aspects were amazing! I particularly enjoyed Day 3, which had some tough climbs but the views to the beach were spectacular and the downhill ride was thrilling!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Make the most of each day and stop off at each place to try the local food, coffee, pastries and beer!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, totally! It was so nice to meet local people and travel around this way.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
AMAZING! Such a great way to see the country and places that we would normally not have visited.Francois Sauzier review 1 Jul 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Being guided through so many spectacular parts of Portugal. So many beautiful locations were selected, some more challenging to achieve than others, but always with confidence that I would have a comfortable bed and my bags would always be there at the end of the day!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
I loved all parts of this trip, but 1 extremely important tip is to bring a powerbank for your mobile. The app does eat up the battery power and with no phone, the fun stops!!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I think so. Eating and drinking locally can only help local businesses. And of course, cycling is the most low impact way of travelling (and keeping my weight down!!!)4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
This was a sensational experience. I met some lovely people both doing the ride and then at restaurants and cafes along the way. It also was a really authentic way of slowing down and experiencing a country. I loved it!Sherie Olmstead review 22 Jun 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The diversity of the routes, scenery, cycling through the eucalyptus forests & the stunning views as a reward for the challenging climbs.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
I would not market this ride as a flat ride as there are some very steep climbs. Be honest with the descriptions.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Very good. A suggestion about breakfasts for cyclists. The Porto Music Guest House & Casas do Colmeal were both minimal - no fruit, very limited variety. I suggest all hotels offer a variety of nutritious food (not just bread, meat, cheese). Include natural whole foods: variety of fruits, warm veggies, natural yogurt.michael stein review 17 Jun 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Enjoyed the self guided tour - countryside2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Confirm you are happy with hotels3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, low carbon footprint4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
ExcellentMarli Robertson review 5 Jun 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Every day was spectacular. It would be hard to choose one memory.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Prepare for some hills if you choose not to use e-bikes. No problem for e-bikes but we had to work hard a few times on regular bikes but doable and the price for the spectacular views.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Certainly the recommended cafés were all local and the hotels, even the bigger ones felt family-like and had aspects showing care with regards to sustainability.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
The three of us enjoyed the experience so much that we would happily do it all over again. We will use the tour operator again for sure. Communication was friendly and efficient. They were very helpful and when one of our party sent the key to replace her battery to the next hotel inadvertently, they organized its retrieval promptly.Dan Cushman review 15 Apr 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The last day of the trip was fantastic biking2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
The weather can be a little challenging early in the year3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was greatMelinda Schentag review 12 Nov 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The scenery was beautiful. Diverse terrain and environments. The accommodations exceeded our expectations. Excellent breakfasts. Experienced small and large communities.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Do a little training first if you are using a pedal bike and not an e-bike. There are several climbs and some difficult hills. Do take time to stop along the way and enjoy the pastry shops. We biked in October-be prepared for some rain. But that is part of the adventure!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We did stop at coffee shops in the smaller communities as well as staying in accommodations in some small communities as well. Biking does reduce environmental impacts but our luggage was transported by a vehicle.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was amazing! It proved to be a challenge because of the weather but we enjoyed all aspects of the ride. We felt that this tour should be rated as a moderate ride rather then easy because of the number of hills.Ellie Roberts review 6 Oct 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Everyday was different. We loved seeing all the small villages, and seeing rural Portugal as well as the coast line. Eating out at small local tavernas and bars. Cycling is a great way to do it.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be aware the second part is more hilly, but we managed it on cycles. Pace the distances out - the most we did was 60 km a day which gave us time to stop, explore, swim and enjoy the day.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
yes absolutely. Cycling is great for the environment, we often stopped to speak to locals and shopped or ate in small villages.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was excellent. We had a great time, loved meeting Portuguese people, local cuisine, scenery was varied aand we visited a variety of villages and towns which had different characteristics. The tour operator was really helpful to organise customised tour for us. Accommodation was excellent too.Jackie Bourn review 27 Sep 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Loved the cycle paths and back roads that were provided in the app to follow. The app provided was excellent.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Some of the routes using the backroads meant they were hilly. If you are not very fit I recommend a an e-bike. I used one and could enjoy the scenery but still get my exercise3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Our mode of transport was a bicycle so good environmental impact and where possible the routes took us to some lovely conservation areas. We also ate and shopped locally.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
ExcellentJenny Barnett review 23 Sep 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Lovely part of the world for cycling - endless nature reserves and quiet roads.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Bring a gel saddle pad - the bikes were good quality but the saddles were not great. And if you can, time your ride out of Porto so it’s not a busy Saturday morning…3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, supported local businesses throughout the region with frequent coffee and cake stops.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Very organised company and a lovely area - just what we were looking for.Mary Fox review 22 Sep 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Cycling was a great way of visiting the smaller towns and villages between Porto and Lisbon. We enjoyed the varied landscape local cuisine, meeting up with other cyclists enroute and sharing our cycling experiences.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
The first couple of days are relatively flat with some off- road sections allowing for fairly easy relaxed cycling. Climbs feature on the other four days, some are short though with the occasional steep sections. From experience, we opted to take and use our own pedals and cleated cycling shoes which certainly helped on the climbs. We requested GPX files for each route prior to our departure allowing for the routes to be fully previewed in advance. This was particularly helpful including the fact that each GPX route took us directly to our overnight accommodation, so we did not have any problems locating it on arrival in a new destination. We advise doing this if you have a Garmin or equivalent GPS device. There is an option for either a pannier or a handlebar bag. We opted for the handlebar bag which was sufficient to carry all that was necessary including an extra water bottle. As experienced cyclists, we thought that the final day in the itinerary from Foz do Arelho to Óbidos was too short at only 10 miles. During the booking process, we asked if it was possible to combine day 5 and 6 suggesting an alternative route southward from Óbidos for day 6. This was organised by the tour operator without any issue and proved to be a good option for us. The extra cost incurred was very reasonable. If you feel likewise be aware that the company is prepared to adapt the itinerary for this tour.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Being a cycling holiday ensures there is limited environmental impact. We used local restaurants, shops, and services throughout our trip.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Communication with the tour operator was excellent from our initial enquiry until the end of the trip. Our request for a change in the itinerary was dealt with without any difficulty as was our request for an extra night in Porto at the start. At our welcome briefing with Miguel, our tour contact, we received excellent information and advice about what to expect on each day, so we were fully prepared for all eventualities. Route directions and maps were comprehensive. Their App was excellent providing detailed route information including points of interest and recommended places to stop for refreshments. We were very happy with the quality and standard of the bikes (Trek) provided. Accommodation was very good throughout our tour, providing a variety of modern and traditional places to stay. All our rooms were well furnished, had good quality linen and, without exception, very quiet allowing for a good nights sleep. We would certainly have no concerns booking another cycling holiday with the tour operator and we would highly recommend the service and support they provide. Cycle touring is a great way to experience all Portugal has to offer. Many thanks to all tour operator staff with who we had contact. Communication and support was always prompt.Eithne O Shea review 19 Sep 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Every day was incredible cycles were ideal length, scenery was so varied and beautiful. We were privileged to be able to see so much of the country. Portuguese people are so friendly. We had an an amazing time but have to highlight the welcome and hospitality from George in Casa de Colmeal2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Bring cycling shorts and weather proud holder for phone3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes as we were in small villages and towns.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Unreal. The route was so well thought out offering a wide variety of scenery, cycling paths and tracks. We would not have been able to do it by ourselves. The app was so easy to follow and got us safely from place to place. Tha k you so much.Lucy Miller review 8 Aug 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Being free, outside, seeing new and exciting places.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Hire a phone holder.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Totally. We left no footprints.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
A top experience. Will recommend.Laura Girz review 10 Jul 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Beautiful ocean views and loved the variation between forest and arid spaces. The biking infrastructure was amazing. A highlight was also Comeal and the inn there, and would have loved to spend a whole day there.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
If you're used to flat riding, it may be hilliard than you think. Bring lots of water and sunscreen. Enjoy the seafood between Porto and Obidos.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
For the most part yes--we supported local businesses including places to stay and restaurants.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
The tour operator was amazing and super responsive. The bikes and local support were great.Wayne Ambler review 4 Jul 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The two cities, Porto and Lisbon, and the beautiful beaches of Sao Pedro de Moel, Nazare, and Foz do Arelho. These beaches were beautiful not only because of the vast expanse of sand but also because of the dramatic hills and rocky cliffs that came down to the water's edge.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
The ride often deserves its "easy" label, but there are several hills that required us to dismount and push our bikes up. A couple were on the leg between Sao Pedro de Moel and Foz do Arelho, but even the short ride from Foz do Arelho to Obidos had a hill that required us to dismount. The roads were generally without traffic, was wonderful, but short stretches out of Figueira da Foz and Nazare were a bit threatening. We encountered only minor navigational challenges, but it should be known that the audio of Ride with GPS often gives directions based on the names of streets, but the streets themselves are often without street signs or other labels, which makes this portion of the audio useless. The visual GPS indications on the screen were wonderful, but it could be hard to read the screen in the bright summer sun. It helps to turn up the brightness of the screen on the phone, but this uses more power. Conclusion: A good battery pack is essential for recharging the phone during the day's ride. Do NOT leave home without one!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We spent a fair amount of money in local hotels and restaurants. This might be considered a benefit for the locals. I would not say that we did anything for conservation. On the other hand, I don't think we had a negative environmental impact, except perhaps for our plane flights to and from Lisbon.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was great, and we were very favorably impressed by the tour operator.Trish Dooley review 19 Jun 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The wonderful cycling…2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be prepared for a few hills.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. We were staying in small villages some nights which enabled us to spend money in places we may not have seen. And enjoy them of course.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Loved it. Paulo couldn’t have been any more helpful. Thank you.Renee Moorefield review 15 Jun 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
We thoroughly enjoyed the beauty of Portugal, its culture, and people. Experiencing that by bike was a bonus!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Savor every minute of it!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
The reason we chose to use Responsible Travel over other travel companies was BECAUSE our trip benefited local people and the environment. Please keep up the good work!4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
On a scale of 1 to 5, a "6"! : )Karen Barratt review 29 May 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Sense of acheivement when we reached obidos. Discovering small villages and beautiful countryside and beaches along the way.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Go for it as the cycle paths are well marked and it was a great route3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
yes4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Fiona Ward review 20 May 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing hundreds of storks, nests on electricity pylons outside Coimbra… Amazing!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Watch the YouTube app tutorial first… We didn’t! Take phones with good batteries and extra charging if possible. Be prepared for some traffic in a big city like Álveiro.. hi viz jacket a good idea, other than that Portuguese car drivers are very respectful. No I don’t know. It’s very sensible long I said.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Most enjoyable, well organized, good hotels we went for the premium hotels and worth it I reckon. Interesting varied routes, very good support from the tour operator.Jane Larkin review 14 May 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Interesting variety of scenery over the 6 days. Enjoyed picnicking by the beautiful Atlantic and wandering round Obidos2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
If you're a cycling novice get an ebike, gel seat and padded cycling shorts. Although the tour is graded as easy we found some of the hills challenging and couldn't have managed without an ebike.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Many of the hotels were on non touristy resorts on typical Portuguese towns so this would have benefited the local economy.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Very well organised from start to finish. Special shout out to Miguel for his exceptional service in Porto.Hilary Lane review 7 Dec 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The lovely hotel and location in Obidos.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Maybe request a female specific saddle (wish I’d brought my own)3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, all of the above.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was a fabulous holiday. The cycling was easy and mostly lovely (with the exception of a few long boring sections on the fourth cycle day - Figueira da Foz to Sao Pedro de Moel).Hilary Lane review 28 Nov 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The lovely hotel and location in Obidos.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Maybe request a female specific saddle (wish I’d brought my own)3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, all of the above.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was a fabulous holiday. The cycling was easy and mostly lovely (with the exception of a few long boring sections on the fourth cycle day - Figueira da Foz to Sao Pedro de Moel).Joanne Brear review 6 Nov 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
We loved cycling through and stopping in villages and towns, meeting new people and trying new foods.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Probably a good idea to avoid late October as we experienced some really windy days and a fair amount of rain.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes to all three! We used pedal bikes and likely 90% or more are now using e-bikes! We visited many coffee shops, restaurants and grocery stores.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
We were in Portugal for three weeks and Spain for two. The bike ride was definitely a highlight of our visit.GERALD REISZ review 17 Oct 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
We had no idea Portugal on its west coast has endless miles of sandy beaches. You hear about the south coast all the time and I suppose that is where the big resorts are located.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Most of the route is as described, on bike paths and roads with little traffic. However there are sections where you will be riding in heavy city traffic on narrow streets. Be prepared. You need to be very comfortable using Ride With GPS or whatever you download the routes to. There are MANY turns and we often missed a few.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent overall. I gave 4 stars for two reasons. The mount we were given for holding your phone or other GPS device on the handlebars was inadequate. It would have never held my device safely. The type of mount with elastic straps would have worked much better. Second reason. I brought my own pedals. At the beginning of the ride, the company met us with a pedal wrench to mount the pedals. I thought someone was going met us at the end of the ride with a wrench. No. By pure luck, my pedals can also be removed with a 6mm allen wrench. This was in the multi-tool. Many pedals use an 8mm tool or can only be removed with a pedal wrench.Kerry Longman review 30 Sep 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Beautiful coastal scenes.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Highly recommended ebikes. I use regular bike at home but this trip would have been a long slog without the ebike.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Full days of enjoyable cycles through varied scenery. Relaxed evenings exploring on foot and savouring local cuisine.Sandy Tennant review 28 Sep 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Cycling through diverse and enjoyable scenery2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Upgrade from basic hotels definitely worthwhile. Transfer from Obidos to Lisbon by bus. Be prepared for some steep hills en route - its not all flat. Check out Ride with GPS app before trip so you can raise any queries with staff before you set off on cycle.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Very EnjoyableJessica Auer review 24 Sep 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The people were extremely friendly and hospitable. Cycling along the Atlantic coast, the beaches, fish meals, fantastic cycle paths.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take a Powerbank for the Nav App. Have an upgrade in the Literatural man fantastic superior suite.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Local hotels and restaurants definitely would have benifited4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Brillant a great holiday mostly away from the crowdsScott Nettleton review 14 Jun 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The lovely towns and great hotels we stayed in. Also the most amazing beaches.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be aware that Obidas is quite far from Lisbon and public transport is not straight forward to negotiate to the airport3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Certainly local cafes and restaurants are recommended along the way and the hotels are not corporate.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
We think it's worth between 4 and 4.5 stars. The last stop is quite far from Lisbon and we had to organise an expensive transfer to the airport. Some directions on how to best reach Lisbon would have been helpful. We also thought that The Literary Man was not up to the standard of our other hotels.Michael Flanigan review 23 Oct 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
the first day Ovar to Colmeal.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
take the gel seats. We brought walkie talkies and found them really useful for keeping in touch with our group.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely supported local businesses. I am not sure about conservation.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Overall it was an excellent holiday. The guidance about getting onto the bridge out of Fiquire do Foz was unclear and coming off the bridge we were very close to heavy traffic. Also some of the cycle paths had too many potholes for comfort.Laurie Crossman review 13 Oct 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Everyday of the bike ride was a fun adventure. We loved having the route in our phones and following along with gps to be self guided. All the little stops in towns for coffee, pictures and chatting with the locals were such a great part of the experience. We found the Portuguese people to be incredibly friendly and the country to be so beautiful and colorful.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
If you are planning to use your cell phone you might want to bring your own bike phone holder. One was provided to each couple but did not feel as secure as we might have liked. It won’t hold a phone with a case. Remember to stop and take pictures along the way. The scenery is beautiful but the days run together and it’s hard to remember each day with out photos.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Absolutely. Being in bikes for sure reduced environmental impact. And we always ate in small, local restaurants and cafes.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
This is the second time we have down this ride. This tour operator was the absolute best in planning the route and giving us the tools and support we needed. It was great to be self guided but knowing they were always available. Especially since 3 in our group came down with covid and one was especially sick. The tour operator stepped up to make sure they were safe, comfortable and were able to join us when they had recovered. I give this 5 out if 5 stars.Graham Silverthorne review 10 Oct 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The whole experience was fantastic. The cycling was amazing, the places we saw en route were completely off the beaten track and the countryside and coast were both breathtaking. Each day was unique from journey to destination, accommodation was always good and sometimes excellent. We really felt that we got to know the real Portugal. The navigation app supplied by the tour operator was really very good.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
As with most holidays, it pays to do some research and to be well organised. When you are cycling every day you have to get into a routine and know where all of your gear is! You also have to remember that your airline hand luggage has to pack down to fit into your suitcase as the taxis only pick up one bag per person. I wouldn’t attempt this holiday if you’re not used to cycling and we thoroughly recommend padded shorts!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We definitely got to small communities that would not benefit from ‘normal’ tourism. Cycling is a lot more sustainable than driving around. We noticed that at least two, maybe three of the hotels had made commitment to sustainable resourcing which we were very happy about.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was a brilliant holiday, everything we wanted it to be. We covered 330km on the bikes so there was an element of physical challenge which we really wanted but it was always within our comfort zone and we finished each day tired but excited to explore our new surroundings. This particular cycle route was generally flat with one or two notable exceptions but we are ‘seniors’ by definition and were easily able to complete each day. The food and wine we sampled were wonderful, people very friendly, weather perfect. It was a five star experience and the tour operator looked after us really well. The bikes were Trek bikes in very good condition.Carol and Jim May review 20 Sep 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The variety and beauty of this part of Portugal - from the gorgeous ocean towns to the quaint highlands and the refreshing eucalyptus forests. Friendly and helpful people.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
We chose eBike option and loved it. There were many challenging climbs, some rough cobbled streets and the wind was strong out of the SOUTH!!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes - almost all our inns were green eco conscious. We also had stops planned where our money was spent with locals. The issue of paid toilets was difficult to get used to in the cities.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
A biking holiday for the fit traveler. Although the weather added to the challenge, the tour operator support staff actually checked in with us as we progressed. Great service.Tracy Beverley review 18 Sep 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
We all loved Obidos. It was the perfect ending to our trip.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
We would have loved to add in a day to explore Figueira da Foz.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. We stayed in smaller hotels away from the main tourist areas and as such were able to visit smaller family run bars, cafes and restaurants.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Brilliant, really well organised and well supported by the tour operator.Mark P review 8 Aug 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
It was great to ride through national parks and nature areas that we normally wouldn't have seen.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Plan your breaks and food stops before you get there. Be mindful of weather and heat of the day. Check elevation changes. For early risers breakfast was often not available until 8am.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes this type of trip hit all three of those.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
A great first time bike trip!Ellie Roberts review 7 Apr 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Unfortunately it was not a good memory! I fell off my bike at the end of the 3rd day and fractured my arm. humerus bone. It was extremely painful and we both stopped cycling. We then hired a car and continued the journey as all the hotels were booked. We cancelled Lisbon as it seemed too much and we realised it would be full of Liverpool fans!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Lesson I learnt was that you should stop and look at the map app rather than trying to do that and cycle . I thought I was on a flat/smooth path and unfortunately did not see a big bump caused by a tree root and went flying. The views and routes were all good and the area has lots of great cycle paths and the roads weren't busy when we went.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We ate out and had coffees so that would have been good for local businesses. hiring a car helped a business. Cycling 3 days was good for the environment. We met some lovely people some helped us at the accident scene and later we visited them and they took us for a local meal.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Memorable but not how we wanted it to be but we loved all the area and hope to come back, and do it again and meet up again. The new Portuguese friends, the staff were brilliant. Couldn't fault them and was very glad of 24 hour support line, they were really concerned and helpful. I will definitely recommend and use them again.Read the operator's response here:
Dear Ellie
Thank you for taking the time to give us your feedback and we hope Portugal will bring you good memories, despite the bad luck you had.
We wish you a quick recovery, and we were delighted to have you here. Hope to see you again in our beautiful Country.
Janet Bruce review 18 Oct 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The beautiful Obidos Lagoon2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
The hills on days 4 and 5 are arduous for ‘casual’ and good cyclists alike3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We acknowledged everyone we passed, supported tiny cafes and enjoyed conversations with strangers.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
We are glad we did it but it was quite hard at times. The Atlantic path was particularly tedious but the beaches when we arrived we’re beautiful and the food good and plentiful.camilla newton review 22 May 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
So many parts of the bike tour were very beautiful, it was a lovely route and we really felt that we'd got to know rural Portugal so much better than on previous trips, just by passing quietly through all the small villages, farmland, beach resorts and forests along the way.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
It's not as flat as they make out! This is billed as their easiest tour on flat terrain - I'd say in reality the first half is pretty flat and the second half is pretty hilly. If you have a decent level of cycle fitness and are happy to cycle for 4-7 hours a day then this trip is fantastic. If not I recommend you hire an e-bike. Even the flat parts could be very physically demanding depending on weather- one day we cycled straight into a strong headwind for almost 7 hours. An e-bike would have made all the difference.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We stayed in hotels along the way, however these didn't seem to be selected for locally owned/run businesses, some of them were large and part of chains and this is perhaps something that could be improved. We ate out every night in small, sometimes family run restaurants, and shopped in tiny village stores so we supported local businesses in that way. I wouldn't say we reduced environmental impact as our luggage was transported by car each day so it was the equivalent of us driving the whole route, and unfortunately we did fly to Portugal as the equivalent ferry/train combo was about three times the price and twice as long (of course). It was nice to support a local travel company providing trips that connect people to nature, however, and the holiday was certainly less environmentally impactful than some.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
This was a really well-organised trip along a beautiful route with pleasant - one exceptional- overnight stays. All the equipment hired was in good working order. We did feel there was a lack of information as to how physically demanding the trip was., and any kind of heads up regarding the weather. (I tried to upgrade to an e-bike but was told this wasn't possible)Richard Crowley review 10 May 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
A chance to get off the beaten track, see the countryside and meet local people.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Give yourself plenty of time to allow for stop offs and lengthy meal breaks!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes to all of the above4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent tour. Well organised. Good preparation notes. Helpful without being intrusive.Charlie Fairhurst review 13 Apr 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
On the whole the distances covered daily allowed a balance of time to enjoy the countryside2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Some of the hills are steep and long - even though it is an easy trip on the whole. No need to bring any extra bike kit - all provided - efficient back up.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Try and go to some of the hotels slightly off track as that undoubtedly helps the local population more4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent trip all roundRead the operator's response here:
Pascal Meurisse review 27 Jul 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Sao Pedro de miel to foz de arheno2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Check that your room has a view that is more engaging than a wall, stairs or ... We paid for premium though Triple check your bike3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Neya hotel and Agua d'alma4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Amazing landscapes. Very different hotels, no consistency in quality No help in bike setup. Better info about places travelled leavingSuzy Andrews review 28 Sep 2021
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Cycling by the wild seas2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
I use an electric bike as I live in a hilly part of Britain but on this trip I only used 3 bars in seven days. Mostly flat. But some of the hills in the second part of the trip I was glad I’d the battery!!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes because often off the beaten track as far as tourists are concerned. Only heard 2-3 other British voices in 8 days.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Wonderful.Joel Burnette review 9 Aug 2021
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The amazing views and small towns along the way. Also, the last hotel called The Literary Man, was incredible!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be comfortable riding on the road and in traffic for the few times it is necessary.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I absolutely believe that we passed through and spent money in communities that are not at all known for tourism. Cycling from point to point saved driving the entire way with stops and all... but our bags were in a car so not completely green unfortunately.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
five out of five!Richard Mason review 19 Oct 2021
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Marvelling at Portugal's unspoilt Atlantic coastline.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Perhaps consider an E-Bike, some very steep hills !3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We hope it did benefit local people. Very impressed with their environmental approach & the miles of walking & cycle routes. Something UK could learn from.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Top Notch. Great fun, loved it.Nicky Chambers review 24 Sep 2021
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Well chosen, largely traffic free route along the beautiful Atlantic Coast. Great app ( very informative and easy to use) provided for a self guided holiday.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Cycling is relatively flat and easy but be prepared for a few steep hills!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
We very much enjoyed the cycling but some of the hotels we stayed in could have been better. Often they were understaffed and the breakfast service was very slow. Mould around the showers/baths in some of the hotels.Billy Dougan review 22 Sep 2020
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Everything went really well, bikes were probably the best we have ever had, hotels were good especially Casa do Colmeal.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
George made us really welcome and Jonnie looked after us and was attentive to all our needs. Hopefully we will be able to book with you again some time in the future as we would be keen to see more of Portugal as it is a beautiful country with very friendly people.Georgie Jephson review 23 Oct 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The night at casa do colmeal - best hotel of the trip, thanks to a George and his awesome hospitality.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
10/10Hannah OFarrell review 3 Nov 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The beautiful coastal towns2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Bring rainwear & pack less than you think you need3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
8 out of 10 - would like to have had an option to spend a day without cycling midway through & enjoy a break .Read the operator's response here:
Dear Hannah,
Our team was very happy to read your wonderful review. We work hard to promote responsible tourism and it's with travelers like you that make our
effort worthwhile.
We will take well care of your suggestions to improve this trip in the future.
We look forward to have you travelling with our company again soon.
Kind regards,
Portugal A2Z team
Laurie Crossman review 15 Oct 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
We loved every aspect of this trip. Responsible Travel put us in touch with a local operator which was awesome. Communication was easy and fast and they answered all our questions. It was so well organized. A rep from the company met us at our hotel in Porto and gave us our bikes, a gps, local phone with their numbers pre programmed, answered all our questions and we took off the next day. We loved following the well marked paved trails along the coast and came to trust our gps as it took us through corn fields and random trails and always delivered us right to the front door of that night's hotel. We loved discovering so many places on our own with the security of our gps and knowing we could call for help if needed ( although it was never needed). We loved setting our own pace and making stops where ever and whenever we wanted to. Portugal is beautiful, the food is great, inexpensive and huge servings! the operator was willing to make some changes in the schedule to accommodate our need for a shorter trip.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
The operator says this is their easiest ride and mostly flat which is true. But the ride between Nazare and obidos has some significant hills that get steep quickly. When I saw a graph of the elevations I decided to request an electric bike. It was doable for my husband who is an avid biker but I was glad to have an ebike ( we're both in our 60s)3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Absolutely.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It actually exceeded our expectations. We loved it and would been consider doing it again.Fran Kelly review 12 Oct 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Beautiful coastline, welcoming Portugese people,fantastic food and beer/wine. quiet roads for cycling, lovely wooded paths and national parks. The accommodation at Casa do Colmeal was outstanding, a true delight, so comfortable but full of character. George, who was in charge of it keeps a high standard, but cannot do enough for you.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Perhaps book restaurants in advance as often full, or not open in evening in less busy areas.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, we use local shops, cafes and bars along our cycle route,4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Really well planned routes, great locations that gave a flavour, but contrast of scenery. Good value for money. Organisers we meet extremely helpful, friendly and proud of good service.Mandy Edney review 8 Oct 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Beautiful and stunning scenery. Lovely friendly and helpful locals. Great cycling routes - and very good bikes.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Train in advance. Maybe to have a couple of hotels for more than one night (packing bags each morning was a bit of a pain). Have 10 days away - but a rest day in the middle and one day at the end to have a mooch and a look around at one of the towns (really no time to do this).3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Absolutely. We stopped for a coffee/lunch in really rural area's. Took time to show an interest and take in the culture and went everywhere on the bikes.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Very good - however, it would have been nice if we had been told that restaurants needed to be booked in advance, particularly in both Porto and Obidos. We really struggled to find a restaurant on the Saturday night (when in Porto), when we did finally find somewhere we enjoyed a very good authentic Portuguese meal, which was very reasonable. Unfortunately our meal in Obidos was not so great! In addition - when we got to our hotel in Colmeal on the Monday night, we found out the restaurant in the village was closed. It would have been good to have been told this in advance. The Manager (George) at the hotel kindly went to a friend in the village, who prepared a meal for us. Finally, we were told on the Tuesday morning that our hotel on the last evening in Obidos had been changed (not sure why). We were due to stay at Hotel Louro, which had a pool. We were moved to The Literary Man, that had no pool. As it was our last night it would have been good to have a couple of hours around the pool before we went to dinner and a few hours the next day before we departed - this was not the case. I think you should have moved us to another hotel with a pool!Holiday Reviews
You can trust Responsible Travel reviews because, unlike many other schemes, reviews can ONLY be written by people who we have verified have been on the holidays. In addition, we don't run these holidays ourselves - our only interest is giving you the best independent advice.
