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Bike Riding

Cycle from Monção to Caminha

Bike Riding · Portugal
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Macs Adventure Verified partner  Explorers Choice 
  • Minho to Porto
    Minho to Porto
    Photo: Laura Paterson, Macs Adventure

Enjoy the views of neighbouring Galicia across the mighty Minho River as you follow it towards the Atlantic Ocean, to its mouth at Caminha.

moderate
Distance 47.3 km
4:00 h
125 m
149 m
56 m
-1 m

Birdlife is abundant here and you'll see fishing platforms built into the river. Today's ride with have you pedalling through vineyards, passing by the Palácio da Brejoeira - owned by one of the largest producers of Alvarinho wine in the region. Pause here to enjoy a tour of it's stately rooms and a wine tasting if you wish. Continue on your journey to the sea through the town of Valença, and take time to explore its 17th century Vila Nova de Cerveira fort. Continue on and enjoy the art and architecture in the pretty little town of Vila Nova de Cerveira. You'll then arrive in the elegant town of Caminha, with a medieval centre full of charm. Take your pick from a variety of great dining options. What better way to celebrate your arrival at the ocean than sampling some delicious seafood?

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Author
Macs Adventure
Update: December 05, 2022
Difficulty
moderate
Technique
Stamina
Experience
Landscape
Highest point
56 m
Lowest point
-1 m

Track types

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Safety information

Check for any damage to the frame, components or wheels. Ensure there are no loose cables and that the tyres are inflated and the brakes are working. Always wear a helmet when cycling.

If you are doubtful of the condition of your hire bike please call the office or the local bike hire on the number provided in your information pack.

Always be prepared to cycle through a change of weather conditions and do check for any local weather warnings before cycling.

Do remember to ride on the right-hand side of the road and whilst drivers in Portugal are respectful of the 'velo', please do be mindful of other road users at all times, obeying local road signs. The road does narrow in parts so please take on bends and when descending, do so with caution.

Always make sure to stay hydrated and carry plenty of water. It is also advised to wear skin-protecting clothing and use sun cream/screen. We recommend you inquire about the day’s forecasted weather before setting out on your walks. A useful website for climate information specific to towns and countries is www.weather2travel.com  or www.yr.no   

Tips and hints

Point of interest:

  • The historical center of Valença - renowned for its 17th century Vila Nova de Cerveira fort, this is a picturesque small town surrounded by craggy peaks and rivers. It was historically the focal point for the defence of northern Portugal from its larger neighbour, Spain. You'll find numerous textile and linen shops, which attract a lot of shoppers from Spain due to the high-quality nature of these products.
  • The historical center of Cerveira - a small but pretty town located on the bank of the Minho River, boasting natural beauty, historical architecture and art and local craft shops lining its cobbled streets. You'll also find a castle here, built in 1321 to defend the township. The riverside Castelinho park is a lovely spot to cool down if needed, which is studded with benches and sculptures. Or simply find a quiet shaded spot by the tree-lined river.

  • The historical center of Caminha - your destination for today's ride. You'll find plenty of things to do and see in Caminha. One of the most significant structures in the town is the clock tower, once the main tower of the medieval castle. It was then incorporated into the city walls, above the main entrance of the citadel. You can visit the tower should you want to look at the view over the city, reaching out as far as Spain.

Start

Monção (39 m)
Coordinates:
DD
42.077220, -8.477346
DMS
42°04'38.0"N 8°28'38.4"W
UTM
29T 543232 4658482
w3w 
///permitted.gangling.storybooks
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Destination

Caminha

Coordinates

DD
42.077220, -8.477346
DMS
42°04'38.0"N 8°28'38.4"W
UTM
29T 543232 4658482
w3w 
///permitted.gangling.storybooks
Show on Map
Arrival by train, car, foot or bike

Equipment

Besides cycling in the kit you are used too, we'd also suggest taking the essentials of water bottle(s), nutrition, an extra layer, cash/credit cards and mobile together with emergency telephone numbers.

Always wear a helmet and pack a spare tube, puncture repair kit, tyre levers and handpump. You may also like to take a multi-tool.


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Difficulty
moderate
Distance
47.3 km
Duration
4:00 h
Ascent
125 m
Descent
149 m
Highest point
56 m

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