8, 9 September 2024
Day 1 – Porto to Esposende – 64 kms
Our group loaded our bags on the bus and walked to Top Bike Tours Portugal’s shop to pick up our Scott e-bikes and start our tour. Our guide Sergio led us to the start of the Camino at the Porto Cathedral.
We were led out of town by guide Sergio who negotiated the weekend crowds well. We were met at various points along the way by Telmo, who was driving the van today. He made sure we had plenty of water, fruit and snacks.
First stop was at the beach were the locals were enjoying the beautiful weather.
Telmo said this was a popular beach to learn to surf.
We continued to ride along the foreshore. Lots of cobblestones and boardwalks didn’t make for the most comfortable ride but this was made up by the beautiful scenery.
We had to overcome one obstacle when the boardwalk suddenly disappeared.
We stopped to visit a replica of a Portuguese Caravel
and then had a short ride through the bush where Geoff got a flat tyre. It gave us all a chance to admire the remains of the Roman road next to the “newer” cobbles
Tube expertly changed by Sergio and we were soon on our way to finish at the seaside town of Esposende after 64 kms.
Dinner was at a traditional Portuguese seafood restaurant.
Day 2 – Esposende to Caminha – 51kms
Today started with another flat tyre – to Geoff again!
Another beautiful day. Early sea fog burnt off to blue skies again.
There was more riding through bush which our bottoms appreciated.
Lunch was at the lovely old town to Viana do Castelo. It was decorated for an upcoming festival and we enjoyed tasty pastries from a cafe. Food in Portugal is incredibly cheap.
Headwind after lunch made me glad for the e-bike.
Caminha is situated on the Minho River which forms the northern border of Portugal with Spain.
