Best Villages in Umbria
Posted: 01/12/23
There are many ways you can describe the region of Umbria : beautiful, historic, lush, verdant, mysterious. The list goes on.
Read moreExperience the wonderous Douro Valley on this self-guided cycling adventure. Leisurely pedal alongside the gentle river and marvel at the terraced vineyards which lie on the hills. Along the way, learn all about the fascinating and historic region.
The vibrant city of Porto is one of the most exciting places to visit in Portugal, with its impressive architecture and authentic restaurants. Most of the cycling on this tour follows the Douro River as it gently flows through the valley, passing by historic towns and friendly villages. As a major wine region, you’ll also get the chance to visit vineyards, where we recommend a tour and tasting if you can. The wines produced here vary greatly, but the most famous is the rich and delicious Port.
We love
Arriving in Porto and exploring its beautiful architecture. There’s history down every side street, and the food is one of a kind.
What’s Included
Transfer by boat to Porto is not included.
Day 1 | Arrive in Régua
Head to your charming hotel in Régua for a comfortable night’s rest before beginning your cycling adventure in the morning.
Day 2 | Cycle through Régua | Distance: 37km
For your first ride, you’ll cycle through the beautiful heart of the Régua region. The descent offers some pretty fantastic views over the city as well as the river. You’ll pass through vineyards and over old, historic bridges and through the centre of the town as you leisurely pedal. There’s even time for a visit to a local farm, where you can experience some authentic Douro produce.
Meals included: breakfast
Day 3 | Régua to Pinhão | Distance: 31km
Today’s ride is a real treat. Leaving the town of Régua, make your way along what many describe as one of the most beautiful roads in Portugal. You’ll follow the Douro River as it snakes through the valley, with fantastic scenery all around. The terraced vineyards cascade down the hills and create a pretty spectacular scene. Your destination is Pinhão, a wine town in the heart of the Douro’s winemaking region.
Meals included: breakfast
Day 4 | Round trip: Pinhão wine region | Distance: 33km
Explore the local wine region on today’s cycle ride in the heart of the Douro wine region. Cross through vineyards and small, charming villages as you take in the rural atmosphere. We highly recommend ordering some food from the hotel in the morning to bring with you as a picnic. Almost everywhere you come across on the route is a perfect picnic spot.
Meals included: breakfast
Day 5 | Round Trip: Pinhão to Tua | Distance: 42km
On today’s ride, you’ll cycle through varied and interesting terrain, towards Tua. This lovely little town has a picturesque bridge that crosses the river, making for a great photo. After exploring, you’ll head on a boat that cruises back to Pinhão. Whilst on board, enjoy the sights and scenery that the Douro Valley offers.
Meals included: breakfast
Day 6 | Pinhao to Régua via Lamego | Distance: 42km
On today’s ride, you’ll leisurely pedal towards the old city of Lamego. Taking you away from the Douro River, you’ll first see the fort at the top of the city when you arrive. One of the most gorgeous sights is the Santuário de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, a cathedral with Baroque and Rococo facades. The steps to this cathedral descend down the hill, creating a wonderful sight and a recommended photo opportunity.
Meals included: breakfast
Day 7 | Porto
Today you can either take a train or a boat to the sparkling jewel of the Douro Valley: Porto. This city has so much to offer, with fascinating history, delicious restaurants, beautiful architecture and much more. Lose yourself amongst the tiled roads, where every street has a hidden-gem known only to the neighbourhood. We highly recommend stopping for a coffee and a pastel de nata whenever you can; these Portuguese custard tarts are absolutely delicious when paired with your rich coffee (and make sure you sprinkle some cinnamon on top).
Meals included: breakfast
Day 8 | We say adieu as you head home
This lovely hotel features a welcoming outdoor pool, bar and lounge area, and panoramic views of the valley. Designed in an authentic Portuguese style, modern touches like the outside bar area are welcome too.
Surrounded by the nature of the valley, this charming hotel enjoys a private location for a peaceful and relaxing stay. Although the hotel has a modern design, it hasn’t lost any of the old-world charm you’d expect from the region.
Located just a few minutes away from the historic centre of Porto, this boutique has a superb view of the river. Taking elements of inspiration from the river, the hotel is beautifully designed and wonderfully comfortable. The terrace in particular is a popular amenity, where you can enjoy a glass of wine whilst enjoying the view.
Available | Duration | Tour Only | Package
(Flights & Transfers Included) |
Self Drive
(Eurotunnel Included) |
Board Basis |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1st Mar 2024 to 19th Jun 2024 | 7 Nights | £1,655pp | £1,965pp | Bed & Breakfast | |
20th Jun 2024 to 15th Sep 2024 | 7 Nights | £1,695pp | £2,015pp | Bed & Breakfast | |
16th Sep 2024 to 14th Dec 2024 | 7 Nights | £1,655pp | £1,965pp | Bed & Breakfast |
Single Supplement: £455pp
The prices displayed for 20th June to 15th September are guide prices. Please call for more info.
*Where tour pricing is displayed in your local currency, please note this is for indicative purposes and your final holiday will be confirmed and transacted at the time of booking with our team in Pound Sterling.
Posted: 01/12/23
There are many ways you can describe the region of Umbria : beautiful, historic, lush, verdant, mysterious. The list goes on.
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