Iberian Divide 10-Day Gravel Tour

Gravel Cycling Tour along the Historic Portugal – Spain Border from North to South

Are you looking for a new gravel adventure in Europe, somewhere very few people have cycled before?

Our 860km Iberian Divide Gravel Tour could be the one for you.

 

Gallery – click or swipe for more…

IBERIAN DIVIDE – AT A GLANCE


Bike Type: Gravel

Number of riding days: 10

Tour Type: Guided or Self-Guided, Point to Point

Airport Porto / Faro

Km / day: 50-100km

Elevation gain / day: 6000-1800m

Overall Difficulty: Medium to Advanced

Accommodation: Rural Hotels

860km 10-day Historic Gravel Adventure along the Spain – Portugal border

Guided, Self-Guided and Club options are available. Pricing starts at €1250pp.

Portugal is one of the least explored countries in Europe, and a true hidden gem for cyclists. During our unique Iberian Divide gravel tour you will traverse the country from North to South, starting from Pocinho in the North-Eastern region of Portugal Tras-dos-Montes on the Douro river and finishing in Alcoutim in the Algarve. The regions of Portugal and Spain that we will cycle through are some of the least explored in the whole of the Iberian Penninsular. This gravel tour is a chance to do something new and completely different from other gravel tours on the market at the moment in Europe.

North

You will start the Iberian Divide with an unforgettable train journey along the Douro River from Porto all the way to the end of the line in a small village of Pocinho. From here it is a stone throw away from where we will start the tour, in Torre de Moncorvo. The north of Portugal is hilly, lush and unspoilt – world famous for the Douro Wine Region, the oldest demarcated wine region in the world. The ancient terraces cling to the side of every hillside, changing colour in Autumn turning the valleys to gold. leaving unforgettable images in the memory of any passing cyclists.

From here we will head into Spain, where similar countryside is set apart from Portugal by the completely different architecture. Wooden Tudor-like houses on stunning little streets of small villages with almost no tourism makes for a truly amazing start to the trip because you really are exploring areas that are very much untouched by modern living.

Central

The central part of this trip is characterised by a number of hilltop fortified villages we will visit, such as Monsanto, Castelo de Vide, Marvao and Monsaraz. These spectacular towns have such a rich history, and are beautiful, fascinating places to walk around at the end of the day.

South

As you reach Southern Portugal and Spain, the greenery returns along with a range of hills that produce a few punchy climbs but stunning views towards Spain and the surrounding ‘Serra’. Cork oak plantations make a large majority of the roadside vegetation, along with beautiful orange groves.

The Iberian Divide route is littered with more magnificent castles – such as Elvas with its huge aquaduct and fortress, a reminder of its less peaceful past. The Algarve itself was one of the last strongholds of the 400 year long Islamic Conquest of Iberia, re-taken by the Christians in 1189, and in fact many place names, churches and the gastronomy of central and southern Portugal still hint at this rich heritage.

How challenging is our Iberian Divide gravel tour?

The Iberian Divide is perfect for medium to advanced level cyclists looking for a challenge. We have designed it specifically to ensure that there is no hike-a-bike or very technical sections, however days range from 50km to 90km, so a good level of fitness is best to truly enjoy the lumpy terrain! 

What levels of support do you provide?

You can join our 2027 Guided Tour for the full package, or book a Self-Guided tour for added flexibility. This includes GPX files, hotel and restaurant reservations, airport transfers, cafe recommendations and 24/7 whatsapp support.

If you prefer a DIY approach, check our our Instant Download package and get started on your planning straight away! Check the full information below.

 

How many days does it take to complete the Iberian Divide tour?

Our itinerary covers the Iberian Divide in 10 days, but of course we are able to customise this if you are capable of doing over 100km per day, this could be reduced to 6 or 7 day instead. For anyone booking a self-guided tour we can also add in a couple of rest days (we recommend Monsaraz and Monsanto at the minimum) to let your legs recover as well as exploring these incredible local places.

What type of scenery can I expect along the Iberian Divide?

This is possibly one of our very most scenic routes, covering so many of Portugal’s diverse landscapes in one trip. You will start by taking the train through the world famous Douro Valley, followed by Portugal’s most north-easterly region – Tras-dos-Montes. You will then traverse the spectacular historic border between Spain and Portugal south, passing through mountain-top fortified villages, forests, open rolling plains and miles of small-scale olives, vines and oranges.

What type of bike is best for the Iberian Divide?

A gravel or mountain bike is what you will need for this tour. We’d recommend a minimum width of 40mm tyres for the slightly rockier sections and to make life more comfortable, especially if you are carrying luggage.

What is the best time of year to cycle the Iberian Divide?

In our experience the best seasons for cycling the Iberian Divide are spring to early summer (April-June) and early autumn (September-October) when temperatures are moderate, and the landscapes are at their most scenic. Summer can be very hot, especially in the Alentejo and Algarve, while winter may bring rain and colder conditions in the north.

What type of hotels can I expect?

For the most part, we book and recommend 3* rural hotels for our Iberian Divide Tour.

As this it a tour in rural Portugal, we focus on the smaller boutique and family-run Portuguese guesthouses, which will make your experience truly special. 

 

What our customers are saying...

 

Posted on Google Google
enrico leonardi profile picture
enrico leonardi
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Abbiamo fatto 5 giorni in bicicletta con Fiona come ns accompagnatrice nella Valle del Douro. Organizzazione eccellente. Ci ha tracciato un percorso fantastico con panorami bellissimi, abbiamo percorso strade senza traffico e con fondo perfetto. Ottima scelta di Hotel e ristoranti. Fiona è stata fantastica nel farci trovare sempre i ns bagagli negli hotel. Le biciclette sia le e-bike che le muscolari perfette. Consiglio vivamente questa organizzazione.
Posted on Google Google
Michela Oberti profile picture
Michela Oberti
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Secondo viaggio insieme a Fiona e a paradise cycling. Quest'anno Azzorre: isola di san miguel!! Un viaggio meraviglioso. Organizzato tutto alla perfezione. Grande professionista, la sua miglior qualità è la capacità di prevenire sempre, Anticipando, Qualsiasi bisogno. Tutto questo accompagnato da un sorriso Contagioso. Super!!!!
Posted on Google Google
Francesca Cutini profile picture
Francesca Cutini
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I spent an unforgettable week in the Azores with Fiona as our group leader, cycling for seven days through the rolling hills, breathtaking lakes, and spectacular coastline of São Miguel Island. Everything was perfectly planned. Every route, every stop, and every detail was thoughtfully organized, making the entire experience smooth, relaxing, and truly enjoyable. Fiona is an outstanding guide—professional, knowledgeable, kind, and full of positive energy. Cycling with her is a real pleasure, and she made us feel welcome and cared for every single day. She gave us seven days in paradise, filled with incredible landscapes, great company, and memories that will stay with me forever. I can’t wait to ride with Fiona again—next time in Italy, exploring the beautiful roads and landscapes of Umbria. Thank you, Fiona, for such a wonderful experience. I highly recommend Paradise Cycling Tours to anyone looking for an unforgettable cycling holiday.
Posted on Google Google
Chiara Enrico profile picture
Chiara Enrico
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Amazing trip! Thank you for the perfect organization with attention to any details . Riding the island through small paths away from main roads made us feel in Paradise !
Posted on Google Google
Andrea Cattani profile picture
Andrea Cattani
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Experience exceeding our expectations.
Posted on Google Google
Liam Somers profile picture
Liam Somers
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great day out with Paradise Cycle club on the gravel trails around Loulé. Top (Tomas) to tail (Fiona), everyone looked after and made to feel very welcome.
Posted on Google Google
Nicola Craxton profile picture
Nicola Craxton
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
As a newbie to gravel riding I cannot recommend Paradise Cycling more! Fiona and Tomas make everyone feel so welcome (no matter your level or experience) and these are genuinely social rides. No one is left behind and I’ve only ever felt supported and comfortable - it’s a wonderful cycling environment. I can’t thank you enough for all the tips and tricks, and for helping me enjoy gravel riding so much!
Posted on Google Google
Jamie Gall profile picture
Jamie Gall
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I have used Paradise tours on various occasions now to show me some routes around the Algarve Fiona and Tomas are top of there game in every way and super friendly and as we would say in Scotland good craic as well Thanks again and hopefully see yous again soon Cheers guys 👍
Posted on Google Google
Nuno S. profile picture
Nuno S.
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Fantastic team , nice tour guides very helpful, amazing routes with good views and always time for that coffee stop on the ride…enjoyable cycling tours 👍👏🏻👏🏻
Posted on Google Google
Steve Richardson profile picture
Steve Richardson
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great social cycling ride today with Fiona and Tomas from Paradise Cycling and the local riders giving me a warm welcome on my first ride with them. Great tarte de maçã at the coffee break too.
Verified by Trustindex
Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more

 

Self-Guided – What’s Included?

Scenic train from Porto to Poçinho
Taxi from Poçinho station to Torre de Moncorvo
10 spectacular days of cycling from Torre do Moncorvo to Alcoutim
11 nights high quality accommodation
Buffet breakfast
GPX files of all stages in advance
Phone Assistance
Restaurant organisation
Civil liability Insurance
5* service – our promise!

Guided Option – all of the above, plus..

Knowledgable and friendly guides with you every pedalstroke of the way
Ride Snacks
3 Course Dinner each night
All staff first aid qualified
Support vehicles + Luggage Transfer

 

 

Not Included

Flights
Extras – e.g. jersey, bike hire, single supplement for accommodation

iberian divide

Join our 2027 Guided Iberian Divide Tour!

 

10 Riding Days, 11 Nights

22nd September – 3rd October 2027

 

 The train will leave from Porto to Pochino on the afternoon of Tuesday 22nd September.

We will ride on Wednesday 23rd from Pochino, arriving in Tavira on the afternoon of 3rd October.

Twin Room €2150. Single room: €2750

Includes:

Luggage transfer from Porto to Pochino
Scenic train from Porto to Pochino
10 spectacular days of riding from Torre de Moncorvo to Tavira
11 nights accommodation in bike-friendly accommodation
Buffet breakfast each morning and 3-course dinner each evening
Civil liability insurance
Support vehicle with mechanic, light snacks and fluids
Luggage transfers
Awesome English speaking guides
Detailed itinerary and GPX route files in advance

5 star service – our promise!

Those dates don’t work for you? Send us a quote request for a private tour!

Interested in a Self-Guided or Instant Download Iberian Divide Tour?

 

🗺

Self‑Guided Tour

⚡

Instant Download Tour

GPX Files✅✅
Detailed Daily Overview & Route Preview✅✅
Recommended Cafés en Route✅✅
Points of Interest✅✅
Airport Transfers✅❌
Luggage Transfers and/or Support VehicleOptional extraOptional extra
24/7 WhatsApp Support✅❌
Restaurant Booking✅❌
Accommodation✅❌
Breakfast✅❌
Bike RentalOptional extraRecomended Providers

10-Day, 11-Night Self-Guided Tour Pricing

Low Season (Dec, Jan, Feb)

Medium Season (Mar, April, Oct, Nov)

High Season (May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sept)

Optional Extras

*Please note that the self-guided tour prices above are based on two people sharing a twin or double room. For anyone sleeping in their own room, the single supplement applies.

High Season Single Supplement €180/night pp extra
Medium Season Single Supplement €160/night pp extra
Low Season Single Supplement €150/night pp extra

Other Optional Extras

Luggage transfers and mechanical support vehicle: €360 per group per riding day
Luggage transfers: €150 per group per riding day (up to 5 riders) or €200 (6+ riders)
Guiding: €260 per group per riding day
Bike Rental: See our options here
Massage: €on request
Other ‘off-the-bike’ activities: €on request

 

 

CUSTOM CLUB AND GROUP TOURS

 


We have hosted groups of up to 45 riders and some clubs come back to us year after year. In the past we have delivered large group tours from Madrid to Lisbon, Lisbon to Faro, and many others. We can build you a point-to-point tour, a single location trip, or anything else in between.

Check out what we can offer by following the link below, and get in touch via the contact form.

Interested in booking this tour? Contact us now for a detailed proposal.

One of our friendly team will be in touch with you within one working day.

3 + 1 =

REVIEWS

Posted on Google Google
enrico leonardi profile picture
enrico leonardi
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Abbiamo fatto 5 giorni in bicicletta con Fiona come ns accompagnatrice nella Valle del Douro. Organizzazione eccellente. Ci ha tracciato un percorso fantastico con panorami bellissimi, abbiamo percorso strade senza traffico e con fondo perfetto. Ottima scelta di Hotel e ristoranti. Fiona è stata fantastica nel farci trovare sempre i ns bagagli negli hotel. Le biciclette sia le e-bike che le muscolari perfette. Consiglio vivamente questa organizzazione.
Posted on Google Google
Michela Oberti profile picture
Michela Oberti
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Secondo viaggio insieme a Fiona e a paradise cycling. Quest'anno Azzorre: isola di san miguel!! Un viaggio meraviglioso. Organizzato tutto alla perfezione. Grande professionista, la sua miglior qualità è la capacità di prevenire sempre, Anticipando, Qualsiasi bisogno. Tutto questo accompagnato da un sorriso Contagioso. Super!!!!
Posted on Google Google
Francesca Cutini profile picture
Francesca Cutini
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I spent an unforgettable week in the Azores with Fiona as our group leader, cycling for seven days through the rolling hills, breathtaking lakes, and spectacular coastline of São Miguel Island. Everything was perfectly planned. Every route, every stop, and every detail was thoughtfully organized, making the entire experience smooth, relaxing, and truly enjoyable. Fiona is an outstanding guide—professional, knowledgeable, kind, and full of positive energy. Cycling with her is a real pleasure, and she made us feel welcome and cared for every single day. She gave us seven days in paradise, filled with incredible landscapes, great company, and memories that will stay with me forever. I can’t wait to ride with Fiona again—next time in Italy, exploring the beautiful roads and landscapes of Umbria. Thank you, Fiona, for such a wonderful experience. I highly recommend Paradise Cycling Tours to anyone looking for an unforgettable cycling holiday.
Posted on Google Google
Chiara Enrico profile picture
Chiara Enrico
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Amazing trip! Thank you for the perfect organization with attention to any details . Riding the island through small paths away from main roads made us feel in Paradise !
Posted on Google Google
Andrea Cattani profile picture
Andrea Cattani
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Experience exceeding our expectations.
Posted on Google Google
Liam Somers profile picture
Liam Somers
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great day out with Paradise Cycle club on the gravel trails around Loulé. Top (Tomas) to tail (Fiona), everyone looked after and made to feel very welcome.
Posted on Google Google
Nicola Craxton profile picture
Nicola Craxton
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
As a newbie to gravel riding I cannot recommend Paradise Cycling more! Fiona and Tomas make everyone feel so welcome (no matter your level or experience) and these are genuinely social rides. No one is left behind and I’ve only ever felt supported and comfortable - it’s a wonderful cycling environment. I can’t thank you enough for all the tips and tricks, and for helping me enjoy gravel riding so much!
Posted on Google Google
Jamie Gall profile picture
Jamie Gall
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I have used Paradise tours on various occasions now to show me some routes around the Algarve Fiona and Tomas are top of there game in every way and super friendly and as we would say in Scotland good craic as well Thanks again and hopefully see yous again soon Cheers guys 👍
Posted on Google Google
Nuno S. profile picture
Nuno S.
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Fantastic team , nice tour guides very helpful, amazing routes with good views and always time for that coffee stop on the ride…enjoyable cycling tours 👍👏🏻👏🏻
Posted on Google Google
Steve Richardson profile picture
Steve Richardson
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great social cycling ride today with Fiona and Tomas from Paradise Cycling and the local riders giving me a warm welcome on my first ride with them. Great tarte de maçã at the coffee break too.
Verified by Trustindex
Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more

Get in touch!

#OURPARADISE