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Type
Gravel
Duration
15 Days & 14 Nights
Next Departure
7 June 2025
30 May 2026
Status
Confirmed Departure
Available
From
4.500 EUR
BIKE MADRID LISBON GRAVEL TOUR
Imagine an ultimate gravel adventure from Madrid to Lisbon in 15 exhilarating days! Ride more than 1,250km of breathtaking gravel roads through the heart of the Iberian Peninsula, culminating at Cabo da Roca – the westernmost point of Europe. This epic ride is designed for experienced gravel cyclists looking for a challenge and an immersive experience like no other.
Ride through the hidden gems of Spain and Portugal, where the landscape changes from rugged mountain passes to peaceful, picturesque valleys. Enjoy kilometers of epic gravel roads that wind through breathtaking mountain ranges and lush forests, with the added thrill of crossing ancient Roman bridges and historic towns. The mild, inviting weather adds to the appeal and makes every pedal stroke a pleasure.
Experience the region’s rich cultural history as you immerse in its historic sites, savor the local cuisine, and stay in charming, comfortable accommodations. More than a test of endurance, this adventure is a journey through time and nature that promises memories and accomplishments to last a lifetime. Prepare to embrace the challenge and revel in the unparalleled beauty of this extraordinary journey!
Highlights
Included
Excluded
- Tour Grade
Bikes available on request:
Included and Optional Services
Itinerary
DAY 1
Arrival
Welcome to Spain!
At the start of our Bike Madrid to Lisbon Gravel Tour, you’ll touch down at Madrid Airport where our guide will be eagerly awaiting your arrival. From there, we’ll whisk you away to your first accommodation. Depending on when you arrive, take the opportunity to explore the vibrant city or prepare your bike and equipment for the adventure ahead. Later, just before dinner, we’ll gather for a briefing about the exciting days to come, followed by a delightful dinner at a local restaurant.
Transfer
0:30 h
Voco Madrid Retiro
DAY 2
Madrid to miraflores
The Adventure Begins Here…
Start at the center of Madrid, in Plaza del Sol, aside the km 0 landmark where all the roads leave from Madrid. Following some pedestrian streets and some parks (as the known Parque del Retiro), the route goes north circling the Anillo Verde, in the direction of the town Soto del Real. Cycling through beautiful golden fields away from the stress from the big city, the goal is to reach the Miraflores at 1.100 m of altitude in the Guadarrama Mountain.
Cycling Distance
69 km
Elevation Gain
+ 1.200 m
La Muñequilla
DAY 3
Miraflores to Navacerrada
Exploring the “Cuenca Alta Manzanares Regional Park”
Starting from Miraflores de la Sierra, near the Guadalix River, you’ll hike up a beautiful forest trail surrounded by pines and oaks. This day promises high mountain views and the chance to see horses, cattle, and wildlife. The stage features an exhilarating twisty singletrack that weaves between cascading waterfalls and lush green canopies. With challenging climbs and thrilling descents, this is a day to remember. The grand finale is a long, exhilarating descent at the welcoming Hacienda Los Robles, where you’ll end a truly epic day in the mountains.
Cycling Distance
84 km
Elevation Gain
+ 2.000 m
Hacienda Los Robles
DAY 4
Navacerrada to Ávila
Ávila, a city surrounded by walls
On this day, embark on an exhilarating gravel biking adventure from Cercedilla to Avila in a 105 km stage, traversing the stunning landscapes of the Guadarrama mountain range. Feel the crisp mountain air as you pedal through picturesque trails, surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking views. As you approach Ávila, the medieval charm of its ancient walls welcomes you to a destination steeped in stories. This gravel biking journey promises not just physical exertion, but a deep connection with nature and a sense of accomplishment as you reach the historic city of Ávila.
Cycling Distance
106 km
Elevation Gain
+ 1.700 m
Palacio de Los Velada
DAY 5
Ávila to Barco D´Ávila
Today you´re going to enter the Gredos mountain range
Start the day leaving the medieval city of Ávila, descending through the streets along the ancient walls, the direction is west, entering a forest trail along the Rio Adaja. This is another day of gravel bike on high mountain roads, with the highest passage at 1,688 m in the Sierra de Gredos Regional Park, which will offer you wonderful and beautiful landscapes. This will be the longest stage with a distance of 124 km, which will test your stamina. Finally, the route reaches Barco d’Ávila, a historic villa in this mountain range.
Cycling Distance
124 km
Elevation Gain
+ 2.000 m
Izán Puertade Gredos
DAY 6
Barco D´Ávila to Hervas
A day to remember!
Today is an exciting gravel bike adventure from Barco D’Ávila to Hervas! Start by crossing the river over the medieval bridge of El Barco de Ávila, a marvel of Roman origin. Tackle narrow roads and challenging climbs to Puerto del Tremedal, where panoramic mountain views reward your efforts. Enjoy a continuous descent, feeling the exhilarating breeze as you take in the breathtaking views. The ever-changing scenery, from lush green meadows to dense forests and quaint villages, will keep you on the edge of your seat. Pedaling with joy, you’ll reach the enchanting town of Hervas, completing an unforgettable day on your gravel bike.
Cycling Distance
68 km
Elevation Gain
+ 1.200 m
Hotel Hospedaria Valle dell Ambroz
DAY 7
Hervas to Pinofranqueado
The Beautiful Villages of the Countryside
After a hearty breakfast, leave Hervás on a rugged trail to Pinofranqueado. Prepare for a challenging 5 km climb surrounded by lush vegetation. Your efforts will be rewarded with an exhilarating descent, the wind in your face, and breathtaking views of eucalyptus and oak forests. Cross the La Pesga bridge at the Gabriel y Galán dam, where a hidden Roman bridge may appear when the water level is low. Enjoy the stunning scenery from the river viewpoint, dotted with olive groves. As you approach Pinofranqueado, cross the Río de los Ángeles over the Puente de Pinofranqueado. If time permits, relax in the natural swimming pool, where the calm waters of the river provide the perfect end to a challenging day.
Cycling Distance
113 km
Elevation Gain
+ 1.900 m
Hotel Rural Castúo
DAY 8
Pinofranqueado to Sabugal
The Hidden Medieval Treasures of Portugal
Today’s route covers 110 km of mostly gravel roads for an authentic gravel biking experience. You’ll feel a deep connection with nature as you navigate the winding curves. As you cross the border, you will see a variety of landscapes, from agricultural fields and artificial meadows to oak and pine forests. These stunning vistas will guide you all the way to Sabugal. Upon arrival, indulge in your first traditional Portuguese meal. We recommend tasting some of the region’s finest sheep and goat cheeses, a product of an ancient pastoral tradition. This day promises both a physical challenge and a delicious culinary reward.
Cycling Distance
110 km
Elevation Gain
+ 1.700 m
Hospedaria Robalo
DAY 9
Sabugal to Manteigas
Discover the historical villages of Portugal
Embark on a beautiful day through a region full of Portugal’s iconic historic villages. Discover Sortelha, an amazing medieval granite village with an impressive castle! Medieval stone roads and single tracks through the valleys between villages will delight gravel cyclists. Pass through fields of vineyards producing wines from the Serra da Estrela sub-region, known for their minerality, elegance, freshness, and longevity. Enjoy moments of green meadows along the way, and pass by several fountains fed by the Zêzere River. Stop at viewpoints to admire breathtaking panoramic views. Soon you will arrive at the picturesque village of Manteigas, nestled in a glacial valley!
Cycling Distance
93 km
Elevation Gain
+ 1.900 m
Hotel Vila Galé S. Estrela
DAY 10
Manteigas to Piodão
From the glaciar valley to the enchanting village of Piodão
Leaving the village of Manteigas, you’ll embark on a thrilling gravel bike adventure across mountain roads offering breathtaking views of Europe’s largest glacial valley and the birthplace of the Zêzere River. Pedal through postcard scenes where grazing sheep and goats fill the mountain landscapes, capturing the essence of rural life. But the adventure doesn’t end there – prepare for a challenging climb to Piodão. Nestled in a beautiful valley with houses clinging to the hillside, Piodão is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Portugal. This stage combines awe-inspiring views with challenging terrain, making it a true test of stamina and spirit.
Cycling Distance
84 km
Elevation Gain
+ 1.800 m
INATEL Piodão
DAY 11
Piodão to Miranda do Corvo
One of the most challenging days
Today’s stage will be one of the most challenging of the entire tour, with the greatest ascent and descent accumulated. Starting in the charming village of Piodão, cross-rolling landscapes decorated by giant windmills and cycle along mountainous roads. As you pedal, the picturesque scenery reveals itself, revealing the idyllic village of Góis, surrounded by nature. The route continues, taking you to the final destination, Miranda do Corvo, where the beauty of the surroundings mirrors the feeling of accomplishment of your gravel adventure.
Cycling Distance
83 km
Elevation Gain
+ 2.200 m
Hotel Parque Serra da Lousã
DAY 12
Miranda do Corvo to Alvados
Cycle through history and nature
Today’s ride from Miranda do Corvo will captivate your senses with its blend of history and natural beauty. As you pass through the charming streets of Penela, you’ll be greeted by the historic elegance of its castle, adding a touch of medieval splendor to your journey. Each pedal stroke unveils the diverse landscapes of the Portuguese countryside, from olive groves and vineyards to rolling green meadows. Embrace the fresh breezes and scenic beauty that define this gravel adventure. The final stretch will lead you along enchanting trails, through green hills and rustic roads, culminating in your arrival at the picturesque village of Alvados.
Cycling Distance
87 km
Elevation Gain
+ 1.500 m
Cooking and Nature – Emotional Hotel
DAY 13
Alvados to Óbidos
Today you will discover a UNESCO Heritage Medieval Walled Town!
Starting from the picturesque town of Alvados, you’ll head towards Óbidos, passing through the Ecopista tunnels near São Pedro. The route unfolds through lush agricultural lands and grassy fields, passing close to the historic Alcobaça Castle, a testament to the 13th and 14th centuries. A dirt road then leads you through cornfields and south along the stunning coastline. Enjoy breathtaking views of the bay of São Martinho do Porto, the charming village of Foz do Arelho, and the tranquil Óbidos lagoon. Your journey ends in the medieval village of Óbidos, where you will be awed by the warm hospitality and stunning scenery.
Cycling Distance
103 km
Elevation Gain
+ 1.200 m
The Literary Man
DAY 14
Óbidos to Cabo da Roca (Cascais)
Let the sea breeze guide you!
This is the final day of this epic journey. For those who have spent days conquering the mountains of the Iberian Peninsula, this stage offers a refreshing ride experience. Enjoy the quiet coastal roads, dramatic cliffs, and charming fishing villages that make this leg of the journey so unique, and the anticipation builds as we approach our final destination – Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of Europe. This epic finale is both a triumphant end and a breathtaking reward for the challenge you’ve taken on.
Cycling Distance
110 km
Elevation Gain
+ 1.700 m
Hotel Vila Galé Cascais
DAY 16
Departure
That’s it! Our adventure has come to an end!
Time flies when you’re having fun, but unfortunately, the Bike Madrid to Lisbon Gravel Tour has come to an end. We hope the memories and experiences we shared stay with you forever. As you prepare for your trip home, we hope to welcome you back soon for more adventures with Exotic Nature Trails!
Transfer
0:40 h