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.
Family — 20s & Beyond
6 days 5 nights
Activity Levels 1-3
Premiere Hotels
From: $5,099 pp dbl occ
($900 for sgl occ)
Quiet beaches, refreshing sea breezes and sun-drenched landscapes. Portugal is the place to have a family adventure beyond the crowds. Bike past hillsides and vineyards. Hike along wild coastline. Surf rolling waves into the shore. Ride a horse through the sand. Wander to small towns filled with artists and farmers. And always 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.
Kick off your adventure in Lisbon, Portugal’s stylish capital city | Travel to Arraiolos in the country’s warm southern heart | Bike the Alentejo’s rolling hills, lush with tidy vineyards and inviting olive groves | Pause to admire orchards of cork oak trees—this region produces nearly half the world’s cork! | Explore the beautiful village of Montemor-o-Novo | Ride through sleepy towns and iconic Alentejo landscapes | Linger over lunch at a historic farm and estate | Sample chocolate and discover the process behind it on a visit to the Royal Cacao Company | Unplug, escape and dine on exceptional cuisine at our luxurious hotel.
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 | Hike coastal trails in Serra da Arrábida | Be immersed in the dramatic landscape of this protected nature park, with views of the turquoise sea at every turn | Relax on secluded beaches and cool off with a swim in a quiet bay | Get in some thrills as you e-bike on Fat Tyre bikes amid sand dunes and rice fields | Trot along the sandy coastline on horseback | Learn to surf at pristine beaches in an all-levels class | Dine with family in the enchanting fishing village of Comporta, where surfers mingle with artists and farmers | Taste local wines at a classic Portuguese finca | Inhale, exhale and flow in a morning yoga class at our world-class wellness retreat, or round out your one-of-a-kind vacation with a stand-up paddleboard session | Perhaps simply opt for a lazy morning enjoying the amenities at our idyllic hotel.
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.
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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! Read on for your available bike options for this trip. (click the arrow to see all available 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, our most popular 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
Our newly redesigned titanium e-bike is a lightweight yet powerful machine unique in the world of e-bikes. It provides plenty of power to flatten the hills and more than enough battery range to cover the distance.
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.
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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