PORTUGAL EXPLORER

Delicious roads, profound history, mountains, vineyards and camaraderie.. This is what we foresee during our Portugal Explore Adventure. This is an “Explore” style itinerary, so we will be staying up to three nights in a couple of places, so we can explode our bags in the hotel room and opt to either ride epic loops, sample some vineyards or just stroll downtown and take in the culture. Portugal is full of history, but did you know it has great roads too?

We are hand-picking the very best roads of the country and giving you an opportunity to literally see all of Portugal in one fell swoop. So, if in Portugal you want to ride the best roads and experience the wildest National Parks and throw in some ocean side too, this is the ride for you.

ROAD CONDITIONS:

All paved, rider’s roads.

PORTUGAL EXPLORER

Starting Price: $7,950
Total Miles: 1,700

Difficulty: Is this tour right for me?
Contact us with any questions

THE ITINERARY

Day 4 - Free Day in Chaves up to 170miles/275km

A glorious free day, and what to do? Hmmm, reading, relaxing, strolling the city, or...ride? We have a great loop planned for you along the Spanish border through Montesinho National Park. It's famous for it's wide array of floral and fauna, but most notably it's wild population of Iberian wolves. This natural corner of Portugal just happens to have lovely roads as well, and we will ride them gleefully. After all, why not? Stay in Chaves

Day 5 - Free Day Chaves up to 170miles/275km

It's our second free day in Chaves and you are obligated to do whatever you want. We have another fun loop ride planned, this time to the northwest of the city along the Spanish border, this time through Peneda-Gerês National Park. This area is known for being one of the most remote and lost in time regions of all of Portugal. It is the oldest and biggest National Park in Portugal. Get ready for world-class mountains, lakes, rivers and roads. We might even stop at a medieval castle along the way. Stay in Chaves.

Day 6 - Chaves to Covilhã 140miles/226km

We head through Port Wine country to the tallest mountains in Portugal. Don't let the mileage fool you, we are going to take some gorgeous side roads that will only make you fall in love with Portugal more. Our destination tonight: the small university mountain city of Covilhã. Covilhã is known for it's natural beauty. It is a launching point for hiking, skiing, mountain climbing and camping. Did we mention the riding? Stay in Covilhã.

THE GEAR TO BRING

MotoQuest guides wear KLIM helmets, jackets, pants and gloves, and we outfit our motorcycles with luggage and accessories from Revzilla. You can view and download our complete MotoQuest packing list here.

Included with the tour:

Hotel Accommodations
Premiere Welcome and Farewell Dinners
Professional MotoQuest Guide(s)
Support Vehicle
Support Vehicle Driver
Staff Trained in First Aid with Satellite Phone
MotoQuest Swag Bag
Photos Taken on the Trip
Automatic Enrollment in Global Rescue

Not Included:

Airfare
Meals on the Road
Gas
Alcohol
Alternative Tours
Travel Insurance
Gratuities
National Park Entrance Fees

MotoQuest Staff on Tour:

Phil Freeman

Landmarks And Attractions

Lisbon, Portugal

. Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a captivating destination that offers a delightful blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. Lisbon is known for its stunning architecture, with its colorful tiled buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and grand plazas. The city's rich history is evident in its many historic landmarks and monuments, such as the iconic Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the São Jorge Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city. One of the highlights of Lisbon is the neighborhood of Alfama, a maze of narrow streets and alleys that exudes a traditional and authentic atmosphere. Here, you can immerse yourself in the sounds of Fado music, a soulful genre that is deeply rooted in Portuguese culture. Lisbon is also famous for its vibrant food scene. You can indulge in delicious pastéis de nata, traditional Portuguese custard tarts, or savor fresh seafood dishes at one of the many seafood restaurants. Don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of Port wine, a sweet fortified wine that Portugal is renowned for. For those seeking a bit of relaxation, Lisbon offers beautiful viewpoints, known as miradouros, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River. The city's proximity to the coast also means that you can easily escape to nearby beaches, such as Cascais or Estoril, for a day of sun and surf. Lisbon is a city that seamlessly blends its rich history with a vibrant contemporary culture. From its lively nightlife to its thriving arts scene, there is always something to discover and experience in this captivating city.

Chaves, Portugal

Chaves, Portugal is a charming town in the northern part of the country. Chaves is known for its rich history, thermal springs, and picturesque landscapes. Chaves is located in the Trás-os-Montes region, near the border with Spain. The town has a long and fascinating history, dating back to Roman times. In fact, one of the main attractions in Chaves is the Roman Bridge, Ponte Romana, which spans the Tâmega River and is believed to have been built in the 1st century AD. One of the highlights of Chaves is its thermal springs, which have been renowned for their healing properties since ancient times. Visitors can indulge in the relaxing and therapeutic benefits of the thermal baths, which are said to have various health benefits. The town's historic center is a delight to explore, with its narrow streets, traditional houses, and charming squares. The medieval Chaves Castle, Castelo de Chaves, is another notable landmark that offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside. Chaves is also known for its gastronomy, particularly its hearty and flavorful traditional dishes. The local cuisine often features regional specialties such as smoked meats, sausages, and the famous Chaves-style roast kid, a succulent dish made from young goat. Nature lovers will appreciate the beautiful landscapes surrounding Chaves. The nearby Montesinho Natural Park offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and immersing oneself in the tranquility of nature.

Covilhã, Portugal

A town nestled in the Serra da Estrela mountain range, Covilhã is a place of natural beauty and historical significance. Covilhã is located in the central part of Portugal and is known for its connection to the textile industry. In the past, it was a thriving center for wool production and played a significant role in the country's textile heritage. One of the notable landmarks in Covilhã is the University of Beira Interior, which is renowned for its engineering and textile programs. The university campus adds a youthful and vibrant atmosphere to the town. The surrounding Serra da Estrela mountains offer breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities. In the winter months, the highest peak, Torre, becomes a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. During the rest of the year, the mountains provide opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the natural beauty of the region. Covilhã's historic center is a charming area to explore, with its narrow streets, traditional houses, and historic buildings. The Church of Santa Maria, with its beautiful Manueline-style architecture, is a notable landmark in the town. Covilhã is also known for its traditional cuisine, which often includes hearty dishes such as "chanfana" (a slow-cooked goat or lamb stew) and "queijo da serra" (a delicious cheese made from sheep's milk).

Evora, Portugal

Evora is a captivating destination that offers a delightful blend of ancient charm and architectural wonders. Evora is located in the Alentejo region of Portugal, known for its vast plains and rolling hills. The town itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, thanks to its exceptionally well-preserved historic center. One of the highlights of Evora is the Roman Temple of Evora, also known as the Temple of Diana. This impressive structure dates back to the 1st century AD and stands as a testament to the town's Roman past. The Cathedral of Evora, or Sé de Évora, is another notable landmark in the town. This grand cathedral showcases a mix of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Manueline. Its interior is adorned with beautiful artwork and intricate details. Evora is also famous for its Chapel of Bones, or Capela dos Ossos. This unique chapel is adorned with human bones and skulls, serving as a reminder of the transient nature of life. It is a thought-provoking and somewhat eerie sight to behold. The town's historic center is a delight to explore, with its narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and charming squares. The Praça do Giraldo, the main square, is a bustling hub where locals and visitors gather to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Evora is also known for its gastronomy, particularly its regional dishes. The Alentejo region is renowned for its hearty cuisine, featuring dishes such as "migas" (a traditional bread-based dish), "porco preto" (black pork), and "sericaia" (a delicious dessert made with eggs and cinnamon).

Farol do Cabo de São Vicente

The Farol do Cabo de São Vicente is a remarkable lighthouse located at the southwesternmost point of Europe, in Sagres, Portugal. This iconic landmark holds great historical and geographical significance. The Farol do Cabo de São Vicente, also known as the Cape St. Vincent Lighthouse, stands proudly atop towering cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It has been guiding ships and sailors since it was first built in 1846. The lighthouse is named after Saint Vincent of Saragossa, the patron saint of Lisbon. Its strategic location at the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea made it a crucial navigational aid for sailors throughout history. The Cape St. Vincent Lighthouse is known for its distinctive red and white stripes, making it easily recognizable from afar. Its powerful light can be seen from a considerable distance, warning ships of the treacherous coastline and guiding them safely on their maritime journeys. Aside from its practical purpose, the lighthouse offers breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. The dramatic cliffs and crashing waves create a mesmerizing backdrop that captivates visitors. The surrounding area of Cape St. Vincent is also steeped in history. It is believed to be the site where the famous Portuguese explorer, Henry the Navigator, established his school of navigation in the 15th century. The cape has witnessed countless maritime adventures and played a significant role in Portugal's seafaring history..