Region Overviews: Portugal Travel Guide: Overview
The oldest nation-state in Europe—it became the Kingdom of Portugal in 1139—Portugal is as steeped in history as it is in its own unique culture.
One or more kids 17+ required (siblings 14+ ok) | Min age to ride e-bike 16+
Family — Older Teens & 20s
6 days 5 nights
Activity Level: 1-3
Premiere Hotels
From: $5,499 pp dbl occ
($900 for sgl occ)
Warm beaches and sun-drenched landscapes. Portugal has unlimited ways to venture off the beaten path. Bike through serene hillsides. Hike coastal trails. Learn to surf the rolling waves. Kayak over turquoise waters. Wander friendly small towns. And, at family dinners, indulge in the fresh catch of the day.
Start/End Lisbon
Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.
Start your active family adventure in Lisbon, Portugal’s chic capital city | Travel to the country’s southern heart | Bike the Alentejo’s rolling hills amid lush vineyards and inviting olive groves | Pause to learn about and admire rows of cork oak trees—this region produces nearly half the world’s cork! | Discover the UNESCO World Heritage center of Évora, known for its historic architecture and Roman ruins | Hike through sleepy towns and iconic Alentejo landscapes | Enjoy a family lunch at a historic farm and estate | Explore the beautiful village of Motemor-o-Novo.
Surrounded by vineyards, this outstanding resort blends modern design with elegance and simplicity. A Small Luxury Hotels of the World member. (pool, spa)
Journey to the dazzling Atlantic coast | Bike coastal trails in Serra da Arrábida | Immerse yourself in the dramatic landscape of this protected nature park, with views of the sea at every turn | Soak up the sun on secluded beaches and keep an eye out for dolphins as you kayak with family through the glittering water of Sétubal Bay | Sip a coffee in the enchanting fishing village of Comporta, where surfers mingle with artists and farmers | Ride a wave in a beginner's surf class | Learn about not only wine but also the cultivation of rice over lunch at an adega | Stand-up paddleboard on a picturesque lagoon | Roll out your mat in an all-levels morning yoga class at our world-class wellness retreat, or complete your Portuguese vacation with a lovely morning hike.
This extraordinary wellness resort was designed by Portuguese architect Miguel Câncio Martins, whose dedication to honoring traditional structures and the natural environment is matched only by his keen eye for detail. A Small Luxury Hotels of the World member. (pool, spa)
The earlier you book, the more choice you'll have and the lower your price. And you can always change your mind — you won't be charged to transfer to a different trip before your final payment is due. View cancellation policy.
Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy.
Our Private Trips are best for groups of 6 or more. We suggest joining a scheduled trip.
Group size is required to show per-person pricing. Your group size can be approximate and can change.
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Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. Several routes and a range of levels are offered each day so you can choose how much or how little activity you want to do. Learn more about how we determine activity levels.
Portugal's landscape is characterized by constant rises and valleys, and the continuously rolling terrain, as well as high heat in the summer months, can make routes feel more challenging than the mileage may suggest.
The key to a stellar day's ride is a bike that's perfectly in tune with your cycling style… Backroads has you covered with the best bike fleet in the world! Please note that bike requests are subject to availability and prioritized based on the date they're submitted.
Click the arrow to see all bike options.
Included in your trip price
This custom-designed titanium bike is lightweight and responsive, featuring Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic shifting, 11-speed compact gearing, a premium Mavic Ksyrium Pro wheelset and a full carbon fork.
Included in your trip price
A proven classic, this custom-designed titanium bike is suited for a wide range of cyclists. It features a comfortable ergonomic seat and a long wheel base that add to the bike’s control and stability.
Included in your trip price
Keep pace or zip ahead, pedaling with an electric boost. This bike provides plenty of power to flatten the hills and more than enough battery range to cover the distance.
Min. age to ride e-bike: 16+
We want to make sure you're on the right trip and that you have the best experience possible. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.
The slower pace, relaxed approach to life and old-world qualities in Portugal are some of the highlights of this spectacular region and are reflected in the hotels and restaurants on this trip. That said, service can lack a sense of urgency when compared with the service found in other parts of Europe. Additionally, while the Premiere hotels we've chosen are some of the finest in the country, they may seem a bit simpler than the Backroads European standard. The same can be said for Portuguese cuisine, which is traditionally a celebration of local flavors but is also bit more rustic than other places we visit in Europe.
Due to variable ocean tides and weather conditions, the day and time of activities may vary somewhat by departure. Rarely, an activity may be canceled because of bad weather and/or conditions. If this is the case, your leaders will have alternative options planned.
The oldest nation-state in Europe—it became the Kingdom of Portugal in 1139—Portugal is as steeped in history as it is in its own unique culture.
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