A Family Cycling Adventure Along the Coast of Portugal
“What were you thinking?” was the general response from friends and family when we shared our plans to cycle the coast of Portugal for our summer holiday.
Setting off from Porto with panniers packed in 28°C weather, I questioned my own judgment. While we enjoyed independent travel and bike rides, I had never embarked on an active holiday, especially not with young children. Our previous summer vacations were spent lounging by the pool and playing cards.
However, when friends invited us on their cycling holiday, the challenge appealed to us. Our children, now aged nine and six, seemed ready for the adventure, especially with the promise of plenty of ice cream stops.
Despite setbacks like chafing, sunburn, bike repairs, and a minor crash, we all cherished the experience.
The Journey
Over a week, we cycled 93 miles (150 km) from Porto to Figueira da Foz, following the Eurovelo network of cycle trails. The scenic route offered lagoons populated by flamingos and storks and pine forests alive with crickets. We frequently paused to enjoy the beach and a picnic of fresh food.
The route was mainly flat, with only one daunting hill testing our legs. Most days the weather was perfect, around 25°C to 28°C, accompanied by a refreshing ocean breeze.
Our daughter quickly became enamored with cycling, whereas our younger son appreciated the comfort of a towing attachment we rented. This arrangement made it easier to manage distances and kept their spirits high while playing with friends during breaks.
The Experience
Cycling turned out to be an incredible way to explore Portugal. The daily rides let us soak in vibrant landscapes, and locals even cheered us on along our route.
We stayed in charming, less-touristed coastal towns. One highlight was Costa Nova, near Aveiro, characterized by its colorful striped beach houses and vast sand dunes. Figueira da Foz was another favorite, with lively beaches and free minigolf.
While this holiday was not the cheapest—return flights from Porto costing around £800 and bike rentals bringing the total to about £790—it offered significant savings on activities since we were often content lounging at the beach or savoring pastries.
Unlike traditional villa-based vacations that sometimes led to boredom, the daily cycling kept our children engaged and happy. As my daughter expressed, “one week felt like a month because we did so much.” Surprisingly, I found living out of a small bag to be liberating.
Accommodation and Food
Accommodation was affordable, such as our stay at O Violas Guesthouse in Praia de Mira, offering exceptional breakfasts and bike storage for £145 a night. A week’s lodging for our family cost around £1,160.
We enjoyed delicious picnic lunches and indulged in fresh seafood in local restaurants, with generous meals often under £80.
After saying goodbye to our friends in Figueira da Foz, we took an easy two-hour train ride back to Porto—except for a minor hiccup when we left behind a pannier, which was thankfully returned the next day.
A Luxurious Finale
For our final two days, we splurged on The Yeatman, a luxurious wine-themed spa hotel offering stunning views over Porto. The kids were well accommodated, with amenities like a children’s menu, games room, and spacious indoor pool.
Despite planning to explore, we found it hard to leave the hotel’s comforts. Instead, we opted to relax in our dressing gowns, enjoying sunsets and celebrating our adventurous family holiday.
Useful Links:
- O Violas Guesthouse offers double rooms from £76 a night.
- The Yeatman offers double rooms from £275 in low season.
- Vieguini Bikes provides bike rentals in Portugal.
- Visit Portugal for travel inspiration.
