At a Glance
Escape to the transcendent wonders of the Douro River Valley as you cycle from Spain to Portugal. Let its elegance engulf you as you traverse the land aboard the luxury vessel, AmaVida. Ingest the allure of picturesque Europe, behold lush forests, stunning azulejos, ornate architecture, world heritage sites, and savour mouthwatering traditional cuisines. From splendid Salamaca to historic Porto, savour the timeless grace unveiling two countries on this unforgettable 13-day cruise and bike escapade.
Your adventure begins as we journey from the World Heritage site of Salamanca in Spain to the serene village of Lumbrales. Take in stunning vistas as you pedal into the Douro Valley and board the luxury AmaVida. Cycle to the secured hilltop village for breathtaking views into Portugal and Spain. View the gorgeous tiles in Pinhão, an attraction ...
Trip Highlights
|
|
What's Included
- All meals as specified in itinerary
- Park and other entry fees
- Brief orientation in Salamanca On Day 1
- Professional guiding: two support vans, 6:1 guest-to-leader ratio
- Biking, cruising, sightseeing and activities as stated in the itinerary
- All luggage transfers and shuttle transfers
- 7 nights accommodation aboard a luxury vessel on a twin share basis
- Comprehensive travel planner with detailed pre-trip information
- Expert Trip Leaders, on ship and on shore
- Off-the-beaten path exploration
- Impeccable and personalised service from ship staff and leaders
- Exploring lesser known routes away from busy ports
- Dedicated support vans
- Easy-to-use route directions so you're free to explore independently
- Off-ship lunches in genuine settings
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Itinerary
TWO BIKING OPTIONS: Hello, Douro River Valley! Following our convergence at Salamanca, we journey through the Spanish countryside, and outside Lumbrales, where your tour leaders adjust your bike and educate you briefly on biking techniques and safety. As a form of warm-up, cycle through the Spanish highlands and past pastures and quiet villages on a serene path that witnesses very little traffic. Make a brief stop to have lunch at a small pueblo, then behold stunning vistas of Portugal as you descend into the Douro River Valley to our floating home for the next seven nights, the luxury AmaVida. |
||
A vessel where timeless elegance spills from its decks. The rust and gold colour schemes perfectly harmonise the Douro’s breathtaking sunsets. Settle into your stateroom before we reconvene for a welcome reception and the ship's safety briefing. Then, we have dinner to mark the start of our thrilling journey down the Douro. |
TWO BIKING OPTIONS: As the ship navigates from Spain to Portugal in the morning, we cycle down the Douro. If you're lucky you may spot a griffon vulture or a Bonelli's eagle soaring elegantly. We officially start the day by shuttling to Castelo Rodrigo, a secured hilltop village that provides jaw-dropping views of parts of Portugal and Spain. Check out some local produce as you traverse narrow mediaeval streets. Then, take your bike for a spin amid a jumble of rugged shrubland, almond orchards, and olive trees en route to the ship in Pochino. |
||
This afternoon, relax on the sundeck as we cruise along the upper Douro River, lined with steep and scantily inhabited slopes. You have all the time in the world to receive a therapeutic massage, read a book, or even take a dip in the pool. (The trip fee doesn't cover massages.) We pull into the port in Pinhão this evening, where we head onto the shore for a spectacular dinner at Quinta de La Rosa Winery. Enjoy mouth-watering cuisine with the best selection of exotic wines. |
TWO BIKING OPTIONS: We start our day by shuttling to the nearby Portuguese town of Provesende. On getting to the town, we cycle through flourishing forests and the Alto Douro Wine Region, a World Heritage site, courtesy of its 2,000-year-old winemaking history. Cycle a rolling route that weaves through the cobblestone streets of several aldeias (small historic Portuguese towns), taking in Baroque architecture along the way. Make a stop and try a local dish for lunch, before descending back into the river valley. In the afternoon, we cruise along the river to Peso da Regua, one of the largest towns on the Douro. On getting to the port, we gather on shore, for a remarkable dinner of traditional Portuguese specialties. |
TWO BIKING OPTIONS: After we eat breakfast, we shuttle to the tiny village of Codeçal, which still looks the same as it did centuries ago. From here, we go for a warm-up ride through small villages to Lamego, home of the Shrine of Our Lady of Remedies, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Portugal. Go on a guided visit to the church and behold its monumental stairway's 600 steps, accessorized with azulejos (blue and white painted and glazed tiles). After your visit, go back to your bike and ride from Lamego to a family-run Quinta (farm estate) taking in amazing views while at it. When we get there, we rest for a while and enjoy a delicious lunch. You have the option of joining the shuttle to the ship in Peso da Regua or cycling there. In the evening, we enjoy another mouthwatering dinner on board the ship, or you could go into Peso de Régua for dinner on your own. |
TWO BIKING OPTIONS: Begin your day with a scenic shuttle ride to the town of Campeã north of the Douro and is in the Trás-os-Montes (translates to "Behind the Hills") area. Go off on a spin through the Nature Park of Alvão, where a landscape of oak, chestnut, and laurel contrasts sharply to the prevailing vineyards in the river valley. As you cycle, make sure to watch out for deers, wild boars, and badgers that call the park home. Then, we have a quintessential Portuguese lunch at a family-run Quinta. We return to the vineyards after lunch, pedalling through the Vinho Verde region. Literally, its name means "green wine" but more accurately, it means "young wine" since the vintages produced here are aged about 3-6 months. In the evening, we freshen up on the ship and return to dryland for a cozy dinner at a local tavern to savour the flavours of traditional Portuguese cuisine. |
Level 2, Approx. 45 km (28 miles), Elevation gain: 488 m (1600 ft) This morning, you could choose to cruise or bike along the last stretch of the Douro, watching the rocky rural landscape give way to urban Porto, our ship's final destination. This World Heritage is seated on the Atlantic Ocean and boasts a rich history as one of the oldest European centres and is renowned for its namesake port wine. After enjoying lunch on the ship, we go on a guided walking tour through Porto. Explore this breathtaking city flush with magnificent churches, winding alleys, extravagant azulejos, and distinct quaint charm. You have all the time in the world to explore on your own, you could stroll through the narrow paths, observing um cimbalino (espresso) or perusing shops for souvenirs. Close to the port, there are several wine cellars you can tour, indulge in wine tasting, and maybe buy a bottle or two to take home. It would be a shame if you missed the alluring Lello Bookstore, aesthetically arranged and decorated and is said to have influenced J.K Rowling when she was writing Harry Potter. Tonight, savour another lovely dinner aboard the ship. Or if you choose to, check out the local culinary scene to maybe try Porto's famous tripe by yourself in the city. |
TWO BIKING OPTIONS: Following a nice breakfast, hop on the shuttle to start the day's relaxed ride along the Atlantic Coast. Check out the beach scene to get a feel of life in the Vila Nova de Gaia neighbourhood. Explore Porto on foot; visit port wine cellars, shops and cafés, or you could just stick to riding along the awe-inspiring coast. At night, we toast to a remarkable voyage down the Douro, enjoy a farewell dinner together and toast to our adventure so far. |
Enjoy a cosy breakfast in the morning, and say goodbye to your tour leaders before disembarking the ship and boarding a private shuttle to Lisbon. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Dates & Prices
The price guide is based on the lowest category cabin available on the departure. Please contact us for the available cabins and prices. Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure point is Salamanca, Spain
- The finish point is Porto or Lisbon, Portugal
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Salamanca. The nearest airport is Salamanca International Airport which is 13.9 km away. Other nearby airports include Valladolid Airport, 106.8 km and Madrid Airport, 182.3 km.
The section of the Douro River Valley visited on this trip enjoys a moderate climate with summertime temperatures that are usually quite comfortable. However, this region is prone to variable weather.
Spain
In Salamanca, the summers are short, warm, and mostly clear; the winters are very cold, windy, and partly cloudy; and it is dry year round. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from -0°C to 30°C and is rarely below -6°C or above 35°C.
Portugal
In Porto, the climate is temperate oceanic, with mild, rainy winters and pleasantly warm, sunny summers. The city is located on the northern coast of Portugal, on the estuary of the Douro River. The wind blows frequently: in the cold half-year, it is caused by Atlantic depressions, and can be strong, while in summer, a cool breeze from the sea blows in the afternoon. During the night and in the early morning, in periods of good weather, fog can form all year round. The average temperature of the coldest month (January) is of 10.2 °C (50.3 °F), that of the warmest month (August) is of 19.9 °C (67.7 °F).
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 1-3.
Level 1, 2-3 hours, 13-35km (8-22 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 305m (1000 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 29-51km (18-32 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 671m (2200 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 42-68km (26-42 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1036m (3400 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 58-87km(36-54 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1341m (4400 ft)
Level 5, 5-7+ hours, 77-113+ km (48-70+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1341m+ (4400+ ft)
Performance Road Bike Custom-designed titanium bike built for cyclists to power up climbs and speed through the countryside. This performance road bike is lightweight and technologically advanced, featuring Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic shifting, 11-speed compact gearing, a premium Mavic Ksyrium Pro wheelset and a full carbon fork. Responsive, efficient and comfortable for a drop-bar performance bike, it’s an impressive ride suited to avid riders. Drop handlebars only. Available Accessories: Trunk bag, flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals). |
||
Touring Bike A proven classic, our custom-designed titanium touring bike is suited for a wide range of cyclists. Our most popular bike features a comfortable ergonomic seat and a long wheel base that add to the bike’s control and stability. This touring bike combines a wide range of gears with the ease of an adjustable upright riding position for comfort and efficiency. Upright handlebars only. Available Accessories: Rear rack and trunk bag, flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals). |
||
Electric Assist Bike A lightweight yet powerful machine unique in the world of e-bikes. One of the lightest e-bikes available, it provides plenty of power (and then some!) to flatten the hills and more than enough battery range to cover the distance. Other outstanding features include the same comfort as our Touring Bikes and lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting. Available for guests 16 or older; not appropriate for pulling a Trailer Bike or a Cub trailer on a Family Trip. Upright handlebars only. Available Accessories: Rear rack and trunk bag and flat pedals or toe-cages included. |
||
Carbon Bike The Carbon Cannondale Synapse Hi-Mod Red ETAP AXS has been put through its paces at both Paris-Roubaix and the Tour de France by the UCI World Tour team–EF Pro Cycling. Delivering phenomenal acceleration and handling in a light and powerful package—it’s built for hard-core riders, men and women alike, who are looking for a high-performance bike that doesn’t sacrifice comfort. The Synapse is offered in a complete range of sizes. Available by request for additional cost on biking trips in Europe, US and Canada. Available Accessories: Not equipped with a rear rack or bag, bring your own pedals, selection of saddle sizes available. |
||
Tandem Bike Hand-built frame features Co-Motion's custom-designed cro-moly steel tubeset, powerful Avid disc brakes, Shimano Ultegra drive train, and a custom, upgraded wheelset. Suggested for riders with some tandem experience and on trips with flatter terrain. Due to the tandem's size, frequent racking is not realistic, so there may be fewer opportunities to hop in the van. Dropped handlebars for captain position, upright for stoker. Available by request for additional cost on biking trips in Europe, US and Canada. Available Accessories: Rear rack and pannier or trunk bag and Flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals) |
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.