Bike Travel Guide to Portugal

Portugal was made for bikepacking and cycle touring. From wild mountains to rolling vineyards, from seaside cliffs to sleepy villages — it’s a land of endless discovery for anyone exploring by bike. But the weather? That’s the secret ingredient that makes or breaks a great cycling route.

And here’s the good news: Atlantic ocean makes climate at coastline very soft and the southwest coast of Portugal, stretching from Setúbal to the Algarve, is a year-round paradise for bikepacking and gravel cycling. Think: sunny skies, warm air, dry gravel roads and trails — even in winter. Daytime temperatures in winter making it one of the few regions in Europe where you can comfortably ride in a t-shirt in January. Whether you're chasing sunsets by the Atlantic, exploring the Arrábida Natural Park, or following coastal bike routes along Costa Vicentina, this region offers the perfect combination of cycling weather, scenic landscapes, and accessibility.
Of course, Portugal’s beauty runs deep. The Serra da Estrela mountains and Peneda-Gerês National Park in the north are absolutely breathtaking — but they are only truly welcoming for cycling trips in summer and early autumn. The Alentejo interior gets extremely hot in summer and is best avoided for bike travel between May and September. The central and northern regions of Portugal? Stunning, yes — but expect cooler temperatures and frequent rain outside of summer.
So if you're planning a bikepacking trip in Portugal, looking for the best cycling weather in autumn, winter or spring — head south. The Arrabida park near Setúbal, sunny Costa Vicentina and the Algarve is always open. Of course, there are rainy days in winter — from late December to mid-March — but it’s rare to have rain all day. Most showers are short, often followed by clear skies and sunshine. And when the rains do come, they transform the landscape — bringing fresh greenery, soft light, and the scent of new grass. Even in late autumn or early winter, it often feels like spring is already on the way..

AUTUMN (mid-September to mid-December): best cycling season
In the southern part of country, autumn is usually warm, dry, and calm — ideal for cycling.
Daytime temperatures often stay in the 20–25°C range, making it one of the most pleasant seasons for riding.
After summer, landscapes may look a bit dry, but by middle October, the first light rains usually arrive. Within a few weeks, the scenery greens up again — it often feels like spring comes early.
This is a great time to explore the Alentejo, the Algarve, and the Costa Vicentina — all still warm and much quieter than in summer.

WINTER (mid-December to mid-March): ride south for the sun
Portugal’s south and southwest offer some of the best winter riding in Europe.
Daytime temperatures typically range from 15–20°C, even in January. Trails stay dry, and sunny days are the norm — even in the middle of winter.
Rain is occasional and brief — but more importantly, most days offer stable, sunny conditions that are perfect for riding. The stretch from Setúbal to the Algarve works great for a winter ride base.

SPRING (mid-March to mid-June): lush and full of life
The first signs of real spring arrive early in Portugal. In the south, almond trees start blooming in late February, and by March the countryside is bursting with color. April continues the display, with green hills and wildflowers almost everywhere. By March, the sun becomes noticeably more intense — sun protection becomes essential, especially on longer rides.
In the southern half of the country, most days in April, May, and even early June stay in the comfortable 18–24°C range — perfect for cycling and touring.
Further north, temperatures are usually a few degrees cooler, and rain is more frequent.
Sometimes, March and April can be rainier than the winter months — it varies from year to year. But even in wet years, most days bring at least some sun — and good riding conditions.
Spring is a fantastic time to explore the Alentejo, Costa Vicentina, central regions, and inland routes — everything feels fresh, open, and full of energy.

SUMMER (mid-June to mid-September): go north and up into the mountains
This is when real heat hits much of south inland Portugal. Areas like the inland Alentejo can easily exceed 40°C, making long rides uncomfortable or even unsafe.
But summer can still be a great time to ride if you choose wisely:

• The mountains — both Serra da Estrela and Peneda-Gerês are in peak condition. Expect cool air, big climbs, and wide views with little risk of rain.
• The Douro Valley and Minho river — northern inland regions offer rolling hills, vineyards, shaded roads, and more moderate temperatures.
• The Atlantic coast — from the far north to the southern Algarve, riding near the ocean keeps things dramatically cooler. The ocean breeze brings noticeable relief. In the south, the best strategy is to stay close to the coast during the hottest hours and only venture inland early in the morning or in the evening — ideally no more than 10–15 km from the ocean. That way, you stay comfortable while still exploring inland areas.

Much of Portugal has one of the lowest population densities in Western Europe — and that’s great news for cyclists seeking open horizons. Outside the northwestern corridor (stretching roughly from Lisbon through Coimbra to Porto and Braga), you’ll find vast rural areas where villages are small and scattered, traffic is minimal, and fences don’t dominate the landscape.

Regions like the southern Alentejo, the interior Algarve, and the Costa Vicentina on the southwest coast offer some of the most untouched terrain in mainland Portugal. Here, it’s not uncommon to ride for hours without seeing another person. This low density means more freedom to explore, more unpaved roads, and a stronger connection with nature.

By contrast, the southern coast of the Algarve, while beautiful and sunny, is more densely populated — especially around tourist towns — and better suited for riders who prefer paved roads and easy access to services. But if your goal is solitude, gravel, and big sky — inland and southwest is where the magic happens.

Take a look at the Google Street View coverage map, and you’ll notice an interesting pattern. The north and central regions of Portugal are densely mapped — especially along paved roads, including winding routes through mountain areas. This coverage reflects a well-developed asphalt network, and also a higher population density and a dense web of surfaced roads connecting towns, villages, and remote homes. These regions are ideal for road cyclists: expect smooth climbs, fast descents, charming villages, and long days on tarmac surrounded by dramatic scenery.
But if you’re drawn to gravel adventures or bikepacking off the beaten path, your best bet lies further south — in the Alentejo and inland Algarve. On the map, you’ll see far fewer roads covered here by Street View. That’s not a gap — it’s an invitation. The lower mapping density means there are more uncharted paths, gravel tracks, and remote trails that take you deep into nature, far from cars, fences, and noise.
In these southern regions, you can ride for hours on dirt roads, through open landscapes, forests, and rolling hills, meeting few people and seeing more wildlife than vehicles. It’s a slower, more immersive style of travel — and with Portugal’s mild southern climate, many of these routes are rideable year-round.
So:
For scenic tarmac and structured climbs — head north.
For wild gravel, freedom, and silence — the south is calling..

Personally, I prefer riding through forested areas. Forests make the ride more enjoyable — offering shade, scent, seclusion, and a rich, living atmosphere.
Portugal’s tree cover is surprisingly diverse and changes dramatically from region to region.
In the north and center, eucalyptus and pine forests dominate the hills and mountain slopes, forming dense green landscapes perfect for riding.
South of Setúbal, you’ll find an abundance of stone pines — with their wide, umbrella-shaped canopies that look like giant broccoli heads. These forests are especially scenic and welcoming for cyclists.
In the Alentejo, tree cover becomes more sparse: the landscape is shaped by cork oaks, dry grasslands, and the traditional montado ecosystem.
But along the Algarve coast, you can already feel the proximity to North Africa — the sun feels stronger, the air is drier, and the terrain is more open. Orange groves, low shrubs, and scattered trees dominate the landscape.
The southwest coast, known as the Costa Vicentina, is one of Portugal’s most forested regions. Here, you’ll find a beautiful mix of eucalyptus, pines, and native scrub, creating pockets of cool shade, fresh air, and deep natural immersion. It’s easily one of the best regions in Portugal for gravel cycling through the trees.

Portugal’s reservoirs are a vital part of the country’s ecosystem. In its Mediterranean climate, they collect water during the winter and spring rains, storing it to supply the land and people through the long, hot, and almost entirely dry summer.
Unlike the Atlantic Ocean — which stays cool all year — the water in these reservoirs is clean, warm, and magically pleasant for swimming, often all the way through to the end of November.
These man-made lakes stretch across former valleys, creating winding shorelines, rolling hills, and endless possibilities for adventure. Gravel roads twist along the water’s edge, offering new views at every turn.
One such place is Alqueva, the largest reservoir in Western Europe, set in the heart of Alentejo. It’s a choice for those seeking space, silence, and wide horizons. Just don’t plan your trip in the peak of summer — the heat here can be intense. But in spring and autumn, it’s perfect: peaceful, expansive, starlit, and wonderfully warm.
Further south, nestled among hills and eucalyptus forests, lies Santa Clara. This is a mountainous, sparsely populated region with countless dirt roads — you can ride for hours without seeing anyone, except maybe a beehive or an abandoned farm. It’s a place that feels outside of time.
In the far south of the country, at the foot of the Monchique mountains, you’ll find three hidden gems: Odeáxere, Odelouca, and Arade. These reservoirs lie in some of the wildest and most natural areas of the Algarve — steep slopes, rocky trails, oak and pine groves. It’s not uncommon to spot deer on the trail and hear nothing but wind and bees.
And if you’re craving cooler air, lush greenery, and elevation, head to central Portugal — to the Zezere River and Castelo de Bode Reservoir. Here you’ll find pine forests, bridges, hills, and steep climbs. Thanks to the deeply indented shoreline and dramatic terrain, a single compact area can offer routes that are far longer and more diverse than they appear on the map.
These lakes bring together nature, rhythm, and the freedom only a bike can offer. They are perfect places to disappear from the map — and discover your own Portugal.

Gates and fences: how to read them correctly
Gates are very common on rural roads in Portugal. In many cases, a gate is simply a gate — a practical element used for everyday farm work, mainly to keep animals in place.
If a gate can be opened without using a key, for example by untying a rope, removing a simple wire loop, or opening a basic latch, this type of gate is not a signal that access is forbidden. These gates are very common on transit roads that cross farmland. Passing through them and closing them carefully behind you is usually normal and accepted behaviour.
A different situation appears when access is clearly restricted. One clear signal is a gate that is locked with a chain or a padlock — in other words, a gate that cannot be opened without a key. In this case, access should be considered restricted and you should turn back.
Another clear signal can be a prohibition sign. Signs such as Acesso Proibido (Access Forbidden) or Entrada Proibida (Entry Forbidden) clearly express the landowner’s intention to block entry or passage. When such a sign is present, it takes priority over the physical state of the gate — even if the gate itself is open.
A sign stating Propriedade Privada (Private Property) should also be taken seriously. By placing such a sign, the landowner is clearly communicating that the land is private and that access is sensitive. However, a “Private Property” sign on its own does not automatically mean that all passage is forbidden, especially when no explicit prohibition of entry or transit is stated. In Portugal, private ownership alone is not the same as a clear no-access rule.
In practice, landowners may also have different attitudes to different types of access. Very often, objections are aimed at cars or motorbikes, which create noise, damage roads, or disturb livestock. At the same time, the same landowner may have no issue with someone walking or cycling quietly through the area along an existing road.
Because of this, gates and signs should always be read together and in context. An unlocked farm gate usually controls animals, not people. A locked gate or a clear prohibition sign reflects an explicit wish to restrict access. When such a wish is clearly expressed, the correct and respectful choice is always to turn back.

Hunting zones and hunting signs: what cyclists should know

When riding in rural or mountain Portugal, you will often see red signs.
The most common ones are Zona de Caça (Hunting Zone), Caça Turística (Tourist Hunting Area), and Caça Associativa (Associative Hunting Area). These signs do not mean that access is forbidden. They indicate that hunting is regulated in this area and that hunting activity may take place during certain periods.
It is important to understand that hunting signs are warnings, not access bans. Roads and tracks inside hunting zones are usually still accessible, and these signs are meant to inform people that they should be aware of seasonal risks, not to stop them from passing through.
Hunting in Portugal is seasonal. The main hunting season usually runs from October to February. During this period, most hunting activity takes place on Sundays and public holidays, when organized group hunts are common. On weekdays, hunting activity is generally much lower, and many areas are completely quiet.
When riding in a hunting zone during the season, simple awareness is enough. If you see hunters, dogs, or parked vehicles along the road, slow down and pass calmly. Avoid early morning and late afternoon in these areas, and be ready to turn back or take an alternative route if you encounter active hunting nearby. Bright clothing and predictable behaviour help you stay visible.
As with gates and access, the most important rule is to avoid conflict. Hunting zones are part of rural life in Portugal, and cyclists are usually tolerated when they move quietly and respectfully through the area. If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, the best choice is always to leave the area and return by another route.


Key takeaways for riders:

• Private land does not automatically mean no access.
• Many rural roads cross private land and function as transit routes.
• Unlocked livestock gates are normal — open and close them properly.
• Locked gates and explicit prohibition signs mean stop and turn back.
• Hunting signs warn about seasonal activity, not access restrictions.

In Portugal, wild camping is officially prohibited. This rule applies especially strictly in protected natural areas—which include almost the entire coastline and many inland regions of high environmental value.
These restrictions didn’t come out of nowhere. The main issues stem not from hikers with tents, but from motorhomes and camper vans. Their informal campsites—especially in places accessible by car—are often littered with toilet paper, wet wipes, and other small trash. Such spots frequently become noisy, crowded, and stripped of their natural charm, harming both the environment and the travel experience.
Still, reality is more nuanced than the law. Bikepacking is a light, mobile, and often respectful way to travel. One tent in the woods for a single night—leaving no trash, fire scars, or damage — is not the same as a beachfront gathering with barbecues, speakers, and leftovers.
Speaking personally, I believe wild camping is a fundamental right of the traveler. However, I can’t and won’t encourage breaking the law. What I can do is share some advice for those who still choose to camp in the wild:
1. Stay out of sight. Set up your tent where it can’t be seen from roads or trails. Step off the obvious path and choose a hidden spot. Don’t draw attention.
2. Leave no trace. No trash, no fire, no damage to plants or soil. In the morning, the spot should look like you were never there.
3. Just one night. Don’t turn your spot into a base camp. Arrive late, leave early.
4. Respect locals. Don’t camp near villages, farms, or fenced areas. Avoid places marked propriedade privada (private property), acesso reservado, acesso proibido, and similar. When in doubt—ask.
If you follow all the above advices, remain unnoticed by locals and police, and leave no trace on Portugal’s nature, you’ll avoid any trouble — and gain a unique chance to stay close to the wild beauty around you. In reality, it's actually quite easy.
But keep in mind: fines for illegal camping in Portugal range from €120 to €4,000, especially in protected areas and coastal zones. That alone is a good reason to act carefully and respectfully. A thoughtful approach makes bikepacking possible. If we want wild camping to remain an option, we must avoid leaving behind reasons for future bans.

Exploring Portugal by bike is a rewarding experience, and thanks to the national bus network, it's also quite convenient. If you're planning to travel between regions with your bicycle, here's what you need to know about taking it on long-distance buses.
Major Bus CompaniesThere are two main intercity bus companies in Portugal that allow bicycles:

• Rede Expressos – the national operator with the densest and most extensive route network across the country.
• FlixBus – an international company that also operates within Portugal.

Both companies have similar bike transport policies, but Rede Expressos is more commonly used by cyclists because of great network. Bicycle Transport Rules to bring your bicycle on a bus, it must be packed. This doesn't require a hard case or box, but it does require proper preparation:

• Remove the front wheel.
• Place the bike in a lightweight fabric bag that fully covers the wheels, chain, and other dirty parts.
• Alternatively, a very large trash bag (200–400 liters) may work, although packing can be more difficult.
• It is recommended to remove the saddle with the seatpost to make the bike easier to fit into the luggage compartment. Cover the greasy part with a small plastic bag and place it inside the bike bag.

We recommend getting a fabric bike bag made from thin materials like Oxford or similar. When folded, such a bag takes up as little space as a 0.33 L water bottle, and can also serve as a personal ground mat during breaks, a rain cover, or even a small tarp. We offer these compact bike bags as optional gear when you rent a bike from us.
Each bus allows up to four bicycles, and you’ll need to book a separate ticket for the bike. On the Rede Expressos website or app, the booking interface for a bike ticket is not very user-friendly — for your bike you must fill in the same fields as for a passenger, including a name and ID number. You cannot use the same ID number as your own — just enter any random combination of letters and numbers (at least 8 characters), and for the name, simply write "Bike". That’s enough for the system.
Finding the Bus the main Rede Expressos terminal in Lisbon is located near Sete Rios train station (metro station Jardim Zoológico). Most long-distance buses depart from there.
In smaller towns, finding the correct stop can be more difficult:

• On the Rede Expressos website, under "Point of Sales", you’ll find a list of boarding points and ticket offices for all covered locations.
• To be sure, ask local residents where Rede Expressos buses stop — they usually know and are happy to help.

Tips for a Smooth Journey:

• Arrive 15–20 minutes before departure to have enough time to pack and load your bike calmly.
• If you're traveling bikepacking-style, you may need to partially remove bags to fit the bike into the bag. You can tie your bags together and place them next to the bike in the luggage compartment or bring them into the cabin if compact.

One of the great advantages of bikepacking in Portugal is how easy and convenient it is to take your bicycle on the train. The national railway network connects major cities and remote areas alike, and it’s surprisingly bike-friendly.
Which trains accept bicycles? Nearly all trains in Portugal allow bicycle transport:

• Regionais (regional) and Urbanos (commuter) trains — bikes are allowed free of charge and no reservation is required. Most trains have designated bike areas or enough space to accommodate your bike without hassle.
• Intercidades (intercity) trains — comfortable long-distance trains connecting major cities. Each second-class coach has two vertical bike hooks. When booking a ticket on cp.pt, you must select the bike transport option during checkout to reserve a space for your bike.
• These trains usually have a buffet car, where you can buy drinks, coffee, and sandwiches. Train staff generally speak English, making travel easier for international visitors.
• On the Lisbon–Faro route, there are three Intercidades trains per day in each direction, all equipped with bike spaces. These trains stop at several convenient stations in Alentejo and the Algarve, including Pinhal Novo station, located near Setúbal — a great entry or exit point for your bikepacking journey. The full journey from Lisbon to Faro takes about 3 hours.
• Alfa Pendular — Portugal’s high-speed train running between Lisbon, Porto, and Faro. Unfortunately, bicycles are not allowed on Alfa Pendular trains. However, Intercidades trains run the same route, and they do accommodate bikes.

Cost bicycle transport is free on all trains. You don’t need any extra ticket for regional or commuter trains. For Intercidades, simply indicate that you’re bringing a bike during the online booking process — there’s no additional fee.
Summary: Trains in Portugal are an excellent companion to bikepacking. They let you cover long distances, avoid busy roads, or return from remote routes with ease. Combining trains and bikes gives you the freedom to explore Portugal more deeply and flexibly — start your adventure in one region and end it in another, stress-free. Additionally, you can usually buy train tickets on the same day, making your trip very flexible.