Cycle from Ponte de Lima to Barcelos
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Minho to PortoPhoto: Laura Paterson, Macs Adventure
Hop back into the saddle for a day's pedaling through hillier terrain to Barcelos.
Don't be surprised if you see lots of people hiking on today's route - you'll be following sections of the Camino de Santiago pilgrim trail today, in the opposite direction. This stage brings you up close and personal with tiny villages and their local farming traditions and vineyards, as you cycle through a landscape of rolling hills. It also offers fabulous views of nearby mountain ranges. Upon arrival in Barcelos, make sure to visit the 13th century Mother Church with it's peeling hourly bells. Feira de Barcelos is the famous Thursday market that takes place in the town, but if you miss the market it's worth wandering through the medieval heart of the town, looking out for pottery that the town is known for to take home as a keepsake. In the evening, we recommend a refreshing glass of vinho verde with tapas before a late dinner.
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Show elevation profileSafety 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
Points of interest in Barcelos:
- Weekly open-air market (Thursdays) - taking place on the tree-lined Campo da República square. Barcelos isn’t that big, but folks come from everywhere to go to the market, which offers a little of everything, from food to crafts, clothing, and the renowned pottery of Barcelos.
- Pottery Museum - you can get a good general view of Minho arts and crafts when visiting here. The brightly-coloured Barcelos Cockerel is the most representative of all the pieces produced here, but one should not forget the brass bands and the figures depicting the region´s customs and habits.
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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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