Igualada, Wednesday, 2 August 2023.- Six cyclists from six different countries will have the honour of representing the BUFF®-MEGAMO team in the Mountain Bike World Championships this Sunday, 6 August, in Glasgow. All six will compete in the MTB XCO Marathon World Championship along a spectacular route through Glentress Forest in Scotland, over a punishing 96.5 kilometres and 3,200 meters of elevation change.

The BUFF®-MEGAMO bikers who will be at the 2023 Mountain Bike World Championship with their respective national teams are the Spanish cyclist Txell Figueras, Hans Becking from the Netherlands, Switzerland’s Janina Wüst, Peter Pruus from Estonia, Hugo Drechou from France and Portugal’s José Dias.

The BUFF®-MEGAMO, Team Manager Pau Zamora, believes that the World Championship is “the most important one day race of the season. Together with the Cape Epic, these are the two biggest dates on our calendar”. That’s why, “our cycling team is featuring cyclists from six different countries at this global race, proving that we are a highly competitive, top tier team”. Zamora assures that “our bikers can reap great results, because unlike last year’s circuit, this one is harder and more specific, and it’s more suited to Marathon racers. This can be really positive for us”.

The cyclists’ expectations

The six bikers on the BUFF®-MEGAMO TEAM 2023 who will be in Scotland are going to fight for medals and seek to improve on the results in the European Championships held on 11 February in Roc Laissagais (France).

Txell Figueras, who’s been a member of the BUFF®-MEGAMO family for two years, has been called up by the Spanish national team to compete in the XCO Marathon race in what will be her first time participating in the World Championships. Figueras claims that “for me, debuting means seeing what happens without pressure. It’s also a sign of trust and a shot of energy to keep fighting and believing in myself.” The Spanish cyclist highlights that “I want to make the most of the experience and give it my all. I’m really excited to see the final result”, she adds.

At 37 years old, the Netherlands’ Hans Becking says that “I feel pretty good. I haven’t raced much lately based on my standards, but I’ve trained a lot of hours. I’m getting in better shape for the World Championships and I’m feeling stronger as the days come closer. In Scotland we’ll see some real MTB! The final part looks grueling and the competition will be really intense as always”, he highlights.

For her part, the Swiss cyclist Janina Wüst, who debuted with BUFF®-MEGAMO this season, says that “I’ve been preparing at home for the last few weeks for the World Championships. I’m happy with the progress I’ve made. I’m sure the route in Scotland will be mountainous and the pace will be frenetic from the start. I don’t like thinking about a specific result, my goal for this race is to give my best that day”.

Now 28 years old, José Dias was the bronze medal winner in the 2021 World Championships and is the Portuguese MTB XCO 2023 national champion. The Portuguese biker claims that “I’ve spent weeks of hard work thinking about this race. I hope that everything goes as planned. I’m thrilled to face this challenge. Last year was a complicated time because of an injury that dogged me for several months and I hope I’m much more competitive this year. This race is really important for me, and my dream is to get a good result once again”.

Hugo Drechou, the runner up in the 2023France MTB XCO Championship, states that “I’ve been feeling better over the last two months. I’m not going to the World Championships as a favorite, but as an outsider. Last year’s pace surprised me a lot, this year I’m prepared to start strong, especially because we’re not starting with a climb. The goal will be to save up my strength for three hours for the last climb, after that it’s almost all downhill, which is one of my strengths. I only have one request: I’m hoping for a lot of rain to make it the most technical race possible!”, he exclaims.

Lastly, Estonia’s Peeter Pruus, the national champion of the 2023 Estonia MTB XCO Championship, believes that “The World Championships are always a special race, the most important one of the year. I’m a bit nervous, but also excited to fight for the rainbow jersey. Our preparation has gone well, there are only a few races to go, but we’ll do the best we can with tough and specific training sessions. Motivation is always sky high for a race like this”, he says.

The MEGAMO bicycle for the World Championships

MEGAMO, the bike manufacturer headquartered in Girona, is the main sponsor of the team that will compete in the World Championships with the Megamo Track R120 with 120 mm of rear suspension in its Super Light carbon version. It will be mounted with a 120 mm Fox 34 SC fork, with Fulcrum Red Zone Carbon wheels and Pirelli Scorpion XC RC or M tyres. The team will also use Panzer EVO anti-puncture mousse, which can be key in these types of races. 

The Megamo Track bicycles will also be equipped with the 160 mm Galfer Shark disc brakes, the Selle Italia seat (in different versions based on each rider’s preference) and the Fox Transfer SL telescopic seatpost.

Upcoming goals

This season the team is facing an ambitious competition schedule with many stage races, combined with one day MTB XCO races. Once the MTB World Championships are over, the next goals include the Swiss National MTB XCO Championship on 13 August, featuring Janina Wüst, and the Swiss Epic stage race (between 15 and 22 August) which will include Hans Becking and Peeter Pruus. 

Meanwhile, Enrique Morcillo is preparing for his debut in ultra-distance races which will take place during Badlands in early September.

The BUFF® – MEGAMO team continues to move forward in the 2023 season with a firm social and environmental commitment and a strong team of sponsors behind us that are doing everything necessary so that our bikers can give it their all in every competition.

We are starting 2023 with answers to your questions sent to our columnist Ian Jenner who writer the monthly Ask The Coach.

On page 12 you will find an interview with Giancarlo Brocci, creator of L’Eroica, before the start of the New Year. Giancarlo says “It will be great to tell the European Parliament about our ideas to recover and develop the most beautiful suburbs of Europe”.

Then Santini has paid tribute to the iconic finish-line of the Tour de France with a special kit dedicated to the 2023 edition of the Grande Boucle on page 20.

BIKE Transalp celebrates 25 years and is preparing its “mother of MTB stage races” from July 9 to 15, 2023. All about and a map on page 26.

Turn to p30 for design challenges, and the difficulties facing the biking industry in the COVID-19 era in an interview with Matt Mears, the founder of Temple Cycles.

For Tomás it was now or never. He was itching for adventure and the time couldn’t have been better: he was in between studies and had nothing holding him back. On page 36 Q&A with Tomás Mac on his Adventure through Africa.

On p44 Jeremy Edwards is discovering an untapped beauty and a re-found cycling heritage in Portugal.

Find everything about Monchique – located in the far south of Portugal, the Algarve region offers exceptional conditions for cycling and is increasingly sought after by enthusiasts of the sport, from beginners to regular or highly experienced cyclists.

Edinburgh has a lot more to offer than cobbled streets, bagpipes, and festivals. Colin Baird discovers the hidden gem of Edinburgh – Craigmillar Castle on page 56.

Is The Netherlands the best country for cycle touring? Discover on page 66.

Marcia Roberts, Endurance cyclist & LEJOGLE world Record holder 2020, does the ride of her life.

Happy cycling!

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Located in the far south of Portugal, the Algarve region offers exceptional conditions for cycling and is increasingly sought after by enthusiasts of the sport, from beginners to regular or highly experienced cyclists. From the seashore to old maquis* routes, a transition zone between the mountains and the sea, roads cutting through valleys, mountains and forests, the Algarve region unfolds into landscapes of dazzling beauty that make for unforgettable rides.

Serra de Monchique, known as the “garden” of the western Algarve, is a true retreat for cyclists, who can enjoy many activities in nature within a peaceful environment without the typical hustle and bustle of the seaside. Its proximity to the mountains and the Atlantic coast make it a place with a unique microclimate and a luxuriant landscape populated by rare plant species and protected animals, such as the Bonelli’s eagle.

The Portuguese Tourist Authority (Turismo de Portugal) recently launched an international campaign to attract visitors to the region. The campaign is available on www.trymonchique.pt and encompasses a wide target audience, interested in cycling, hiking, trekking, walking, gastronomy, nature, travel or simply tourism.

It is no coincidence that Monchique is the venue for one of the stages of the Volta ao Algarve in February, a cycling race that has been held annually for over 60 years and has become almost mandatory in the pre-season, with renowned cyclists such as Alberto Contador, Michal Kwjatkowski, Tony Martin and Gerraint Thomas, amongst its winners.

Cycling in Serra de Monchique offers an experience of close contact with nature, ranging from more challenging routes, due to the rugged terrain of the area, to trails that can accommodate less experienced cyclists and which also display stunning natural beauty. Cycling is really the ideal way to explore this territory and discover not only its nature, but also its culture, history and wealth of its local cuisine.

The refreshing Serra de Monchique presents an Algarve that is, in many ways, still pristine, far from the hectic atmosphere of the seaside towns and where, around every corner, you will discover unique biodiversity, as well as exuberant mountain and sea landscapes. However, despite its mild climate, July and August can be too hot for biking, so the cycling experience in Monchique can be more enjoyable during other months of the year.

Sought after by the Romans for its therapeutic waters, Monchique has, in addition to a well-known spa, several waterfalls, streams and paths that can be discovered on numerous off-road trails. However, there are several small routes that can be found at https://viaalgarviana.org/menu/67/pequenas-rotas. Mountain bikers will certainly be fascinated by the Serra de Monchique trails, which are perfect for cross-country, freeriding or even downhill riding.

The Foia trail, for instance, crosses an area of pontic rhododendrons, a rare plant species endemic to Monchique, which blooms between May and July, and terraced slopes. The trail between Caldas – famous for its medicinal waters – and Picota, invites you to discover the lush landscape of the mountains, ending at the second highest peak of the Algarve, at 774-metre high, from where you can see the vast expanse of the Algarve coastline and the sea. Moreover, there are many other routes to discover in Serra de Monchique, which show other remains of this little explored region of the Algarve: its monumental trees, some of them centuries old. The old windmills are also a must.

For those who enjoy road cycling, the climb from the town of Monchique to Foia, at 902 metres above sea level, extending for about eight kilometres, which can be challenging, has an average gradient of 7.3%. The advantage of this route is that you can stop at the viewpoints along the way, which offer panoramic views of Portimão, the Alvor estuary and much of the Algarve. On arrival at Foia, on a clear day, the horizon opens up in all directions and the view extends from the southwesternmost point of Europe, Cape St. Vincent in Sagres, to Serra da Arrábida, more than 200 kilometres away, and to the Algarve’s capital, Faro.

For cyclists who want to venture out on longer routes, discovering other areas close to Monchique, they can try cycling about 30 kilometres from Aljezur to Monchique, via Marmelete. At the same distance from Monchique, but to the west, is the town of Silves, the former capital of the Algarve, you can visit the castle and other remains dating back to the Moorish rule in Portugal. To reach Silves, you can drive down the coast to Portimão and Lagos, along the seashore, or cycle to the dams of Odelouca and Funcho.

With a longer distance of approx. 56 kilometres, it is also possible to take the route from Aljezur to Silves, a recommended route for regular to advanced cyclists. The route starts in Marmelete, with a challenging 20-kilometre climb, with a gentle downhill ride to Monchique. Then, you can cycle to Alferce and ride along an off-road to Ribeira de Odelouca, towards Silves. Whichever way you choose to explore Monchique, there are a number of roads with little traffic, as well as several paths, all of which offer great descents and climbs.

Getting to Monchique is extremely easy; the International Airport in Faro, 85km away from Monchique, is a short flight from most major European cities, and if you choose to land in the capital, Lisbon, then you can either take the train or the motorway to the Algarve, just over 250km away.

Legendary sprinter Mark Cavendish will finally make his season debut on Thursday when he takes to the start line at the Tour of Oman.

The 36-year-old has suffered a delayed start to 2022 following a series of unfortunate setbacks, first puncturing a lung and breaking two ribs at the Ghent Six event back in November, before suffering a terrifying ordeal after armed burglars threatened him and his family while recovering at home.

The Manxman has recently spent time at a second QuickStep-AlphaVinyl training camp in Portugal after the team’s usual camp in Calpe, Spain. While long-standing team manager Patrick Lefevere recently said it was ‘too early’ to say if Cavendish will ride at this year’s Tour de France and potentially surpass Eddy Mercx’s stage wins record, it looks like a swift return to the tour for the veteran who will be looking to establish himself as a mainstay for QuickStep this year.

Cavendish has raced in Oman three times previously throughout his career, with one of his 156 overall victories coming on the final day of the 2011 edition. There are likely to be there sprint stages in this week’s race, presenting a perfect opportunity for him to get back on track and continue his breathtaking renaissance.

Speaking to the press in Oman, he said, “I think everybody coming into a new season looks forward to starting to see their shape.

“You don’t really know. It doesn’t matter how you’re going until you compare yourself with the other people.

“We’re here with a group that can come work okay, across all terrains. There are possibly three sprint opportunities this year, but we have Masnada for the GC. It’s a big climb up Green Mountain and you have to come prepared for all terrains, you know. It’s not an easy a few days here.

“But it’s a brilliant preparation race for the bigger races coming up. It’s nice here in Oman – I’ve been here a few times and I enjoy the race. It’s a beautiful place to ride.”

Cavendish will face stiff sprinting competition however when he lines up on Thursday, with likes of Fernando Gaviria (UAE Team Emirates), and Amaury Capiot (Arkéa-Samsic) likely to be in the running.

In the modern cycling world, electric bike tours are becoming more and more common, as the popularity of e-bikes continues to soar. From a catalogue of electric bike tours hosted by Explore.co.uk, to international e-bike racing tournaments, these latest innovations are hard to avoid.

One particularly noteworthy electric bike tour currently being advertised is the Self-Guided Cycle South Portugal trip, which will see holidaymakers travel from the Algarve to Alentejo over an eight day adventure. 

The Algarve has become a notorious spot for cyclists, and so naturally, it makes sense for the holiday to begin in the municipality of Vila do Bispo. 

This first day gives holidaymakers the opportunity to explore the beauty of this spot. Crystal clear oceans and sandy beaches are the backdrop to meticulously crafted architecture and lush greenery, and give the opportunity to adjust to and explore Portuguese food, drink, and culture. Traditional and locally made Portuguese dishes may include locally sourced fish dishes, Piri Piri Chicken, and a range of sweet treats, including Portugal’s world famous egg custard tarts. 

The Electric Bike Tour Hits the Road

The Electric Bike Tour begins in earnest on day 2, with a circular tour from Vila do Bispo via Sagres. The quaint seaside villages of south Portugal are lively and vibrant, full of life and culture that is essential to experience.

Expect stretching lengths of warm sand and sparkling oceans, as well as opportunities to try local foods and wines throughout the trip, and with this adventure on day 2, the expectations for the extravagance of what is to come on this electric bike tour is sure to have been set. 

Famous Portuguese cycle tracks await those participating in the electric bike tour on day 3. The route crosses and intersects with the Via Algarviana west of Sagres, as well as the Historical Trail, leading up to the Carrapateira via the restored village of Pedralva. 

From Carrapateira, the electric bike tour will see a 32km ride across lush rolling hills on day 4. Small inland villages where the most authentic, handmade Portuguese dishes and products can be found along this route, and are guaranteed to delight and captivate.

Day 5 sees the electric bike tour take a detour to Armoreiro beach, before making the climb up to Rogil. You will be thanking your electric motors for the help with this one!

A ride along the Historical Trail will lead the electric bike tour to Odeceixe, a traditional Portuguese village. The village’s rustic, seaside aesthetic is sure to leave holidaymakers in awe, and with plenty of opportunity to sample local delicacies before making the trek across the border from the Algarve to Alentejo.  

Zambujeira is the spot for day 6. The day gives an opportunity for rest after the previous days long trek, to sunbathe in the brilliant Portugal sun, or take a dip in the refreshing ocean currents. How you choose to spend your day is completely your choice, but the tour guarantees that no choice will be a bad one. 

Alternatively, holidaymakers may elect to take an electric bike tour around the area, via Boavista dos Pinheiros. This route provides a vast selection of scenery and terrain to ride over, with uphill travel made all the easier thanks to the electric bikes power. River banks, open woodlands, and dirt roads are abound on this circular course, giving those participating a great variety on their day out adventure.

After returning and resting up in Zambujeira, day 7 will see the electric bike tour make its way to its final destination, Vila Nova de Milfontes. Based at the mouth of the river Mira, this coastal town has been nicknamed the ‘Princess of the Alentejo’, and for good reason. Just look at that view!

The final day gives holidaymakers the opportunity to leave the electric bike tour in their own time, giving a final opportunity to gaze upon the breathtaking Portuguese seascape. 

Will you be going? For as little as £830, this holiday is absolutely one every e-bike enthusiast should mark on their calendar.

As the days turn colder and darker as we approach autumn, there is still much to cheer about.

The gold and crimson hues from the leaves lighting up the ground beneath our feet. Warm drinks in hand, preparing for another season of celebration. Fresh mornings serenaded by yawning breezes and glowing sunrises.

As we wind down from a disappointing summer, we’ve decided to look at cycling destinations we think could brighten your horizons and give you something to look forward to in the coming months.

Cambridge

While you won’t be escaping the inevitable stirring chills of autumnal England, Cambridge does possess a certain charm all year round.

The historic market city is famed for its quintessentially English cobbled streets, quaint tea rooms and centuries-old public houses. While most commonly associated with its world-renowned university, the city is also home to a plethora of galleries showcasing an impressive range of art, from the contemporary to the classic.

Most importantly, it exists as one of the few English cities where getting around on two wheels is the preferred choice of transport; around a third of trips in the town made by bike. The flat and compact nature of the city centre allows for a pleasant ride around the sites.

Take a look at Cambridgeshire Bike Tours  to see the best ways of getting around.

Mallorca

Moving on to a place where the sun is likely to shine during the autumn, Mallorca.

The jewel of the Balearics boasts a stunning coastline with gleaming white beaches, sheltered coves that provide the foreground for fruitful farmland and the dramatic Tramontana mountain range.

As well as this, the capital Palma is enshrined with a rich history stretching back to the Roman and Moorish conquests, and the gothic medieval architecture is truly something to behold.

Average temperatures of 18-22 degrees celsius make this a very appealing destination during the autumn, and one which provides cyclists with breathtaking coastal trails, dipping hills and challenging mountain climbs.

Cycling Holiday Tours Mallorca provide everything you may need for the trip, including accommodation, bike hires, cycle routes with varying degrees of difficulty and even triathlon training.

Paphos, Cyprus

Another destination that experiences copious amounts of sunshine is Cyprus. In particular, we will be focusing on Paphos which is located on the southwest coast of the island.

It is home to your typical crystal clear Mediterranean waters and pristine beaches, but what makes it so special is its incredibly rich heritage. History enthusiasts will enjoy Paphos Archaeological Park, one of the most important sites in Cyprus. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is home to incredibly well-preserved mosaics and Roman villas.

Elsewhere you will find sites relating to the cult of goddess Aphrodite, whose mythical birthplace was at Old Paphos, while the local cuisines boasts all the fresh delicacies the Mediterranean has to offer such as Moussaka and Souvlaki.

Aspire Cycling  provide guidance on accommodation, bike hire and both self-guided and private-guided tours during your time in Paphos.

Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal’s capital city is home to nearly 100km of bike lanes, and 20km of them follow a picturesque flat terrain all along the city’s waterfront, making for a wonderful afternoon excursion.

If a combination of culture and cycling is what you are looking for this autumn then look now further. Lisbon is bursting with colour and character, retaining customs of old as a famous port city. Intricately tiled walls, narrow cobbled streets and charming al fresco dining all congregate to form a wonderful, welcoming destination for tourists. It is a delicate intersection of traditional and modern cultures, meaning you get the best of both worlds.

Again the Mediterranean climate boasts a warm, mild average temperature through the early months in autumn, providing a much needed respite from harsher weather elsewhere.

Live Love Ride host premium bike tours across Portugal, and in particular in the capital where experienced local riders will be able to show you the best accommodation, gastronomical delights and hidden local gems.

Lombardy, Italy

The Lombardy region of Italy is home to a unique collection of landscapes, none more so dramatic than the Alps.

Europe’s tallest and most extensive mountain range is nothing short of breathtaking. The soaring peaks, capped with a heavy dusting of snow in the autumn make for spectacular viewing. While it doesn’t quite hold the sun-drenched appeal of the Mediterranean destinations listed above, the northern border of Italy, shared with Switzerland, is home to some of the best cycle routes in Europe.

Soak up sumptuous local delicacies in a region famous for its incredible cheese and wine, all while testing your abilities on a bike in some of the toughest terrains in Europe. Bike Hotel Paradiso  is a dedicated bike hotel in Livigno that offers services for cyclists and holds special agreements with the Mottolino Bike Park. For the more experienced riders, this is a great choice for those looking to train for sustained periods of time.

North Yorkshire

Venturing to the north of England, and in particular Yorkshire, opens a whole host of opportunities for cyclists.

Three national parks make up a mountain bikers’ paradise, with lush, tumbling hills, lakeside tracks and seemingly boundless vistas all part of the fun.

The Yorkshire Dales are quintessentially Yorkshire, and with their spectacular waterfalls and ancient broadleaved woodlands, they make up some of the most isolated parts of countryside in the UK. The area also possesses a rich tapestry of cultural and industrial heritage to be explored where visitors can find the scattered remains of former mine workings, as well as Skipton and Ripley Castle which are 900 and 700-years-old.

While the autumn will surely throw some inclement weather your way, Yorkshire is a pleasant, quiet place to take your bike. There is something for everyone, with smooth empty roads all the way to some of the most infamous climbs in the country, including Buttertubs Pass and Grinton Moor.

If you’re looking for a quirky, cosy place to stay during your adventure to Yorkshire, Catgill Farm  has an amazing selection of ‘glamping’ options, secure bike storage and is situated at the foothills of the Dales.

Mark Cavendish, Ethan Hayter and Lizzie Deignan are among the 30-strong camp who will lead Great Britain at this year’s UCI Road World Championships.

Taking place in Flanders, Belgium, the championships get under way on the 19th September and run right the way through to the following Sunday on the 26th.

There are several notable inclusions to the British team, namely Tom Piddock who won gold in the mountain biking at the Tokyo Olympics, and he will be hoping to add to his U23 bronze medal in this exact competition back in 2019.

Elsewhere Ethan Hayter, who narrowly missed out on the Tour of Britain title in the final stage, will be looking to keep his momentum rolling into the championships. The 22-year-old has shown his prowess on the WorldTour this year, picking up impressive stage wins in Portugal and Italy, while also winning the Tour of Norway back in August. There is still lots to come for the promising young rider, and he will certainly fancy his chances in Belgium in the coming weeks.

At the other end of the spectrum, veteran sprinter Mark Cavendish, who won the Road World Championships in 2011, also finds himself in resurgent form after a rocky few years on the tour. The 36-year-old claimed the green jersey and four stage wins at this year’s Tour de France, and will likely play a road captaincy role. There was no room for 2018 Tour de France winner Geraint Thomas, who has struggled with form since dislocating his shoulder back in July.

As for the women’s events, Tour de Suisse champion Lizzie Deignan leads a strong cohort; the 32-year-old won the Road World Championships back in 2015, and will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing end to the Olympic road race in Tokyo.

Fellow Team GB rider Anna Shackley, who is just 20, will also compete in the road race, alongside two other riders who are younger than 22 in Anna Hendersen and Pfeiffer Georgi. Alice Barnes and Joss Lowden have also made the cut for the road race.

Lowden and Georgi will also be competing in the time trial , while Ethan Hayter and Daniel Bigham will be representing Great Britain in the men’s event.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cSrR7yBGYMU

Great Britain Performance Director Stephen Park said: “I’m really looking forward to the Road World Championships this year, as we have some serious medal contenders within the squad in every category.

“The Road World Championships are a key feature for the Great Britain Cycling Team’s road squad and it will be great to see the likes of Mark and Lizzie bring their form and experience into a team keen to do the jersey proud and bring back medals.

“It will be interesting to see how the elite men’s road race plays out, too – based on what we know about the course and with so many riders in top form, we’ve made the decision not to go with one team leader, giving us a number of options as the race plays out.”

As we all know, even the idea of travelling recently has been a bloomin’ nightmare. Well, now that the rules are changing, we can finally go away again. So, many of us are now more eager than ever to rediscover our adventurous side. But the question is, where to go? And how to explore it?

How about discovering the beautiful country of Portugal on a speedy road bike?

Luckily, Portuguese bike experts – Live Love Ride – Portugal Bike Tours – are already on it! Providing unique experiences to riders of all levels, Live Love Ride will take you on a journey that will stay with you forever.

Here are 3 of the best adventures they have to offer.

Douro Valley

Starting in Porto, a place with one of the oldest city centres in Europe, the stunning Douro River is a must-see for anybody planning a trip to Portugal this summer. And for anyone looking to get a little bit more out of their time in this region, Live Love Ride offers a fabulous tour centring around this famous river and the breathtaking area that surrounds it.

This tour begins in what has been named as the world’s first demarcated wine region, as well as being a UNESCO Heritage Site, where you can find the area’s trademark terraced vineyards, or “socalcos”. It also passes through an international park with historical Portuguese villages along the way. Whether it’s wine cellars (with some tasting involved, of course) or taking in the ancient surroundings – which includes Palaeolithic archaeological sites with rock engravings dating back to around 22,000 BC, there is plenty to love about this tour.

Getting to know areas of Porto that you perhaps wouldn’t get to see otherwise, you will experience amazing landscapes and architecture both up-close and from viewpoints as you cycle along. As you enter the international park, you will find yourself surrounded by olive oil and orange fields, with unforgettable river beaches and wildlife en route.

If you feel like treating yourself to some “me time” in-between bike rides, there are plenty of opportunities to sample the local cuisine and relax in Medieval castles-turned-spa hotels to recuperate after a long day’s exploring.

You can tailor your bike tour of the Douro Valley to suit your needs. Keep the rides as short or long as you want, and define your own goals and pace with Live Love Ride.

Alentejo

Next on the bucket list of Live Love Ride tours in Portugal is Alentejo, otherwise known as heritage and wine country. You can spend your days enjoying some road cycling surrounded by the vast Portuguese countryside and spend your evening sipping the beautiful beverages the region is famous for.

Again, Alentejo is seeped in Medieval history and, to make this cycling adventure truly unique, Live Love Ride certainly knows the best places to bask in Medieval culture – and enjoy a little tipple along the way too. From sleeping in convents to exploring the wine cellars, this adventure quickly turns from a peaceful break to a holiday filled with tales.

Alentejo mixes the traditional idea of Portugal, with its whitewashed villages and rolling hills, with a hidden side to the country that only the locals seem to know about. AKA, a place busting with stories of the past and UNESCO world heritage sites.

Those that want to explore the area with cycling as their main focus won’t be let down. It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner rider or an expert, these roads are bliss to cycle on. The reason for this isn’t just down to the hidden trails that are nestled amongst the valleys and fields, but also because of the car-free roads (yes, you read that right!) that make cycling here a dream.

But whether you are there to enjoy this rare biking opportunity, or you just want to feel that glorious sunshine on your skin as you glide through the Mediterranean countryside, there is one thing all cyclists to the area will agree on. That is how great the food is! From sweets to savouries, and bread to wine, there is something for everyone in this traditional-meets-modern area of the country.

Bike Tour Across Portugal

For those who want to see as much of this wonderful country as possible, Live Love Ride also offers a north-to-south tour across Portugal. Eclectic is certainly the word here with a tour that explores the aforementioned Alentejo and Douro wine countries, as well as taking lucky riders to the sierras of Alvao and Estrela. It also allows you to see two of the country’s biggest cities: Lisbon and Porto so that you don’t miss a thing during your time in Portugal.

This tour literally takes you through highs and lows, as cyclists have the opportunity to ride from the beaches of the Atlantic coastline to the highest points of Continental Portugal. Once more, you can enjoy the vast Medieval history that surrounds the country and sample the sumptuous wine that each region offers.

Experiencing charming villages, vast plains and picturesque landscapes, the Bike Tour Across Portugal by Live Love Ride, truly immerses holidaymakers and cyclists in Portuguese culture. It offers a proper cross-section of both modern and traditional life in the country, with the sites of the main big cities being contrasted by former royal palaces and rural homesteads.

As already mentioned, it’s a cross-country tour, and so there is the opportunity to explore Portugal’s wonderful capital Lisbon. A vibrant city bursting with art, culture and architecture, the municipality offers some urban relief before you head back to the serenity of the country and beaches. Like the Douro, this Live Love Ride tour also stops at the famous city of Porto, giving you a chance to experience a metropolis with much more going on than initially meets the eye.

These are just 3 of the great tours that Live Love Ride have on offer. Plus, this bike tour company have made their experiences accessible to riders of all abilities and travellers with all wants.

So, whether you are a novice cyclist wanting a tailored journey, or a professional wanting a self-guided tour, there is something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Start brushing up on that Portuguese and get those cycling shorts out – it’s time for an adventure!

Text & Riding: @david_cachon // YOUTUBE CHANNEL

Photography & Film: David Ponce

Video editing: Alberto Porras

Alqueva – Mountain Bike next to the largest artificial lake in Europe

My eagerness to find new and different places to ride a bicycle has led me to the southwest of the province of Extremadura, specifically to the province of Badajoz (Spain). There is the Alqueva Lake MTB Center, that is, a space for mountain/gravel bike routes. In total, seven routes can be made, totaling more than 300 kilometers.

It is a sustainable space, without schedules and 100% accessible. The park is made up of five municipalities: Alconchel, Cheles, Olivenza, Táliga, and Villanueva del Fresno, around the Great Lake of Alqueva that links the province of Badajoz with Portugal.

Alqueva, with more than 1,160 km of coastline, is the largest artificial lake in Europe and offers visitors a wide range of activities to enjoy a few days in full contact with nature. A place to enjoy alone or with the whole family.

Mountain Bike Center Around the Lake Alqueva 

The natural environment of the Alqueva reservoir, in Extremadura, has seven mountain bike routes to learn about the local ecosystem and its historical heritage.

Extremadura is a land of reservoirs. Numerous long-kilometer hydraulic dams adorn the two provinces of Extremadura. One of them even goes beyond our borders and extends to the Portuguese Alentejo. It is the Alqueva reservoir, the largest reservoir in Europe, whose environment is made up of twelve municipalities and aims to become the benchmark destination for sports lovers.

With 250 kilometers of freshwater, Alqueva is one of the most interesting nautical tourism alternatives in Spain. But not only that: the natural space allows the development of other sports activities such as hiking, horse riding, or cycling. So much so that Alqueva has the Alqueva Lake Reservoir MTB Center, that is, a space for mountain bike routes. In total, seven routes of more than 300 kilometers can be made with different level modalities, routes that have the approval of the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA).

Enjoy the surroundings

The heritage resources are very rich and offer idyllic landscapes with medieval castles and villas, religious and popular architecture. While pedaling you can enjoy the wonderful environments of the pasture and the mountains, which have a very characteristic fauna such as bulls, black vultures, storks, cranes, foxes, badgers, wild boars and otters.

The area is also famous for having one of the cleanest skies in Spain, where you can admire the stars when night falls. In summer the area is ideal to go out and enjoy the routes at night, in this way we will avoid high temperatures and we can enjoy the clarity of its sky.

Local gastronomy

There is no doubt that after a good cycling route it is appreciated to taste rich foods with a designation of origin. If what you eat is delicious and you also know where it comes from … eating becomes an absolutely wonderful experience.

Excellent local raw materials that make traditional and pastoral dishes that never disappoint. Iberian pork products reign in the local cuisine, as well as fish stews such as Barbo. Famous desserts like the famous Técula Mécula will leave you with your eyes upside down.

We cannot pass through the area without tasting its wines, hams, and sausages from the famous black leg pigs.

The Routes

–  Route 1: Pedanías de Olivenza

This route runs through the plains and districts of the bordering town of Olivenza, which was declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1964. From this municipality, a circular route will begin that takes you through its walled enclosures and bastion, as well as the main points of interest in Olivenza. Afterward, the route continues to San Rafael de Olivenza and San Francisco de Olivenza where we can see Roman remains and a Visigoth church. The next stop will be Villarreal, on the border with Portugal, a town where the ecofluvial corridor of the Ajuda bridge starts.

Total distance: 68 km

Route: Circular

Positive slope: 341.33m

Negative slope: 346.15m

Difficulty: Red (Hard)

–  Route 2: Dehesas de Olivenza

Route number 2 begins at the Convent of Our Lady of the Conception of Olivenza. From there, the small mountain ranges and hills that extend between the municipalities of Olivenza and Alconchel will be surrounded. The route passes through several mountain ranges: the Sierra de Alor and the Sierra de Montehongo. A route that will end in Alconchel and its Miraflores castle, the southernmost point of the entire route, from where we will return to Olivenza, passing through San Benito de la Contienda.

Total distance: 58 km

Route: Circular

Positive slope: 437.23m

Negative slope: 465.53m

Difficulty: Red (Hard)

–  Route 3: Alconchel – Embalse de Alqueva (Playa de Cheles)

This route begins from Alconchel that crosses the typical pasture landscape of the region where you can see flat meadows and you can enjoy a great wealth of fauna. The second stop will be the municipality of Cheles where there are buildings of great antiquity such as the Palace of the Counts of Via Manuel to finish the route at Cheles beach, a river beach from which you can see Portugal, which has a blue flag for the quality of its waters and services.

Total distance: 26,32 km

Travel: Linear

Positive slope: 181m

Negative slope: 263.1m

Difficulty: Green (Easy)

–   Route 4: Dehesas de Cheles

Also in the town of Cheles you can start another route. Unlike the previous one, this one runs through the meadows that extend around the municipality, full of flora and fauna. Plants such as thyme, oregano or the Rose of Alexandria and animals such as black storks or golden eagles will accompany us during this journey. Water will also be one of the protagonists of the route; on the path you can see the confluence of the Valcuervo stream with the Táliga riverbank, among others.

Total distance: 14.28 km

Route: Circular

Positive slope: 140.29m

Negative slope: 145.19m

Difficulty: Green (Easy)

–  Route 5: Dehesas de Alconchel

Alconchel, with the views of the Miraflores Castle, is also the starting point of this circular route in which you can see the ruins of the Convento de la Luz, from the 16th century, and the remains of an aqueduct, once you reach the stream by Friegamuñoz. On this route, you will cross the Alcarrache river, through the Bogaña Bridge, until you reach the municipality of Higuera de Vargas from where you will return to Alconchel.

Total distance: 56 km

Route: Circular

Positive slope: 531.77m

Negative slope: 526.2m

Difficulty: Red (Hard)

–  Route 6: Ruta de los Bienes Comunales

The main municipality of this route is Villanueva del Fresno, a border town with our neighboring country that has been the scene of historical battles with Portugal. On the way we will be able to see the town of Mourao and its castle, as well as find privileged points from which we will be able to extend the Alqueva reservoir.

Total distance: 41 km

Route: Circular

Positive slope: 202.28m

Negative slope: 223.7m

Difficulty: Blue (Medium)

–  Route 7: Dehesas de Villanueva del Fresno

This itinerary, without technical and physical difficulties, invites us to enjoy the rich landscape that we pass through. The pasture fields that surround the municipality will allow us to observe numerous steppe birds, cranes, vultures … and, also, other animal species such as the wild cat. On this tour, you will also visit the defensive castles of the town of Villanueva del Fresno.

Villanueva del Fresno has a shoreline of 22.5 km from Lake Alqueva, where the jetty is located. In that place, we can practice water sports, kayaking and canoeing, fishing or hiking.

A space, in short, open to all those interested in nature and in the practice of sport in the natural environment where water will not be the only protagonist. Along the way you can also see meadows of holm oaks and cork oaks; virgin places; fluvial beaches… This area is also ideal to contemplate the starry sky, since its municipalities have an international distinctive as ‘Startlight Tourist Destination’.

Total distance: 39.66 km

Route: Circular

Positive slope: 373.83m

Negative slope: 352.3m

Difficulty: Blue (Medium)

+ information:

– You can find information about this area on its website ALQUEVA PARQUE (https://alquevaparque.com) . In it you will be able to consult the activities offered around the lake, as well as options for lodging, gastronomic and cultural information, etc …

– If you are interested in doing guided tours, renting bicycles or E-bikes you can contact Bikes At Forest (https://www.bikesatforest.com) , they are a specialized local company that operates throughout the region, serious and very professional treatment .

Thanks to all my sponsors for making this adventure possible: Patrol Mountain // SR Suntour // Shimano // Alchemist // Vittoria // PRO Bike Gear // Lazer // Pearl Izumi // MagicShine // Bikefitting