Marvelous cycling day! - I cannot say enough about the amazing day we spent cycling the 50 km Ecopista do Dão bike trail. Our awesome guide, Xavier, drove us from Coimbra through the scenic countryside to the starting point at Viseu, and provided us with excellent bikes for our ride on the former railway line, which has a paved surface. We stopped at stone benches along the trail to take in the breathtaking scenery that surrounded us. Xavier appeared on his bike in the early afternoon and took us to Tondela, just off the trail, for an excellent lunch at a restaurant filled with local people, where we tried their delicious bifana. Xavier met us once again to guide us through the end of the trail at Santa Comba Dão. It is highly recommended to spend extra time in Coimbra for this marvelous experience with an excellent guide, and get a full day of exercise. Ellen and Ryan, Canada

Bike ride through Central Portugal - Fantastic! - This is a fantastic activity that is not too physically taxing. The ride is long - 30 miles - but 85% gentle down hill. FUN!

Exceeded expectations - My wife and I were looking for an opportunity to bike and see the less urban areas of Portugal. This trip exceeded our expectations. Xavier picked us up in Coimbra in a clean spacious van with a rack to carry the bikes. We rented Trek hardtail mountain bikes from Xavier for an additional fee. The drive up to Viseu was beautiful, and Xavier shared his extensive knowledge of the area. Rain was forecasted, but we were fortunate to have clear weather. As the description says, you ride through small towns, across bridges over rivers and streams, and through beautiful countryside. The trail was paved throughout the ride and not crowded at all in November. Xavier met us at several checkpoints along the trail to make sure we were happy, and the bikes were functioning properly. One of the highlights was the stop for bifana and beer at Restaurante Casa Maçaroco just off the trail. We enjoyed the meal and got back on the trail. You begin the trip at a higher elevation than you end, but sections of the trail are slightly uphill. Because it was a railway at one time, the incline and declines are gradual relative to the roads in the area. Overall, we really enjoyed the experience and would highly recommend it to friends.