From the hills of Coimbra to ocean views from above near Figueira da Foz

1 Day self guided tour, 62 km

This cycling adventure will take us from historic Coimbra, surrounded by culture and knowledge, towards the magical castle of Montemor-o-Velho, which dominates the horizon. This cycling tour combines the historical richness and beautiful natural scenery of Portugal.

Your adventure begins in the university city of Coimbra. On the way to the starting point, you will ride your bike through its narrow streets, feeling the atmosphere of knowledge and ancient architecture, before starting to ride along the embankment, leaving the city behind you.

Coimbra. The starting point of our tour.

With every kilometer you will be surrounded by breathtaking views of green fields, rivers, canals and houses with bright tiled roofs in populated areas. The bike route will take you through shady roads, creating the perfect conditions for an exciting ride.

Most of the route runs along the Mondego River and its adjacent irrigation canals.

The beauty of the canals on the way to Montemor-o-Velho

You’ll also pass along the coast of a major rowing training center where there are international competitions or basic training that you can watch and take a break.

Rowing training center

Montemor-o-Velho Castle

As you approach Montemor-o-Velho, your eyes will be greeted by the majestic walls of the castle perched on the hill. This impressive view will be the reward for your hard cycling tour.

Approaching the city, you will ride along a bicycle path enjoying the views of rice fields, bright houses in the city center and begin to smoothly climb the hill on which the majestic castle is located.

The ancient streets of Montemor-o-Velho

Once you arrive, you can ride your bikes straight to explore this medieval castle. Explore its towers and walls, unravel its historical secrets and enjoy majestic views of the surrounding area from above.

Central gate of the Castle

Pay attention to the Castle’s operating hours to properly plan your route and arrival time.

Montemor-o-Velho Castle opening hours

Inside the castle, in addition to the main historical attractions, there are many places to relax, observation decks, tables and benches in the shade of trees, where you can relax before the return bike ride.

Montemor-o-Velho Castle courtyard

The cycling route from Montemor-o-Velho to the observation decks over the ocean will smoothly transition from flat to hilly with a gradual increase in altitude.

On the way to viewpoints over the ocean

Gradually gaining height on the way to the first observation deck – Miradouro da Bandeira, you will be treated to beautiful views of Figueira da Foz on one side of the hill and the endless expanses of the Atlantic coast, on the other.

Once you reach Miradouro da Bandeira, enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of this unforgettable coastal destination, with the calm and serenity typical of the region. Take advantage of the unique environment to take some photos and soak up the unprecedented energy of the place. You will be amazed by the unforgettable beauty of this observation deck and enjoy unforgettable moments of complete relaxation and contemplation. Make this place one of your favorites on your next adventure.

View from the Miradouro da Bandeira observation deck

Your next destination is the observation deck Miradouro Murtinheira, with even more mesmerizing and unforgettable views directly onto the ocean coast and the boundless Atlantic Ocean itself.

On the way to Miradouro Murtinheira

This section of the route is approximately 1 km long and runs along a gravel road in a pine-eucalyptus park.

On the way to Miradouro Murtinheira

Miradouro Murtinheira offers cyclists a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and Atlantic Ocean near Figueira da Foz from an altitude of approximately 250 m above sea level. Situated atop a hill, this scenic overlook provides a perfect spot for riders to take a break, soak in the stunning vistas, and capture memorable photos. Whether you’re embarking on a challenging cycling expedition or simply enjoying a leisurely ride, a visit to Miradouro Murtinheira promises a rewarding experience amidst nature’s beauty.

Miradouro Murtinheira

This non-tourist place will remain in your memory for many years, and the views of the ocean will make you want to come here again and again. This is a truly powerful and beautiful place, a visit to which is a must on a trip to Portugal.

Miradouro Murtinheira

The further route will be much easier, as you begin to descend constantly, passing the lighthouse to the next observation point – Cape Mondego viewpoint, which offers a beautiful view of the ocean and the city of Figueira da Foz. Here you can rest, relax and when you are ready, begin your journey to your final destination, either your hotel in Figueira da Foz or Coimbra, using the regular Figueira da Foz – Coimbra train service.

Cape Mondego viewpoint

At the very bottom of the descent begins the city embankment, at the very beginning of which an unusual and unique sculpture is installed – Amonite – Bordalo II.

As part of the initiative “The Sea that unites us”, a cultural project focused on the sea, the work “Omanite”, by ecological artist Bordalo II (Artur Bordalo), was implemented at the junction to Cabo Mondego.

The work, based on an extinct group of molluscs that existed thousands of years ago in the Cabo Mondego area, is part of a collective project between the municipalities of Mira, Cantanhede and Figueira da Foz that includes 120 associations and local artists, with 208 events, some of which have already presented during the summer 2021.

Amonite – Bordalo II

Figueira da Foz

As soon as you enter the city, you almost immediately find yourself on an embankment about 8 kilometers long, which stretches along the entire length of the city along the ocean. Here you can enjoy views of the city and ocean, stop for a short rest in one of the cozy cafes or restaurants, and replenish your supply of drinking water in specially equipped places.

The bike path will first lead you to the beginning of the city beaches and the first attraction of Figueira da Foz – the Lighthouse, which stands far from the shore and from which a magnificent view of the city and the ocean opens.

Lighthouse / Farol Figueira da Foz – Molhe Norte

As you cycle back from the lighthouse to the main cycle path, directly in front of you, on the opposite side of the street, is the Santa Catarina Fort, whose walls contain centuries of history.
It fits perfectly into the modern look of the city, but at the same time retains its original purpose and the opportunity to plunge into a completely different world and escape from the everyday bustle.

Santa Catarina Fort / Forte de Santa Catarina

Those who decide to return back to Coimbra can take the train, which runs regularly at intervals of 1 hour.
Passengers with bicycles must be loaded into the first carriage that has space for bicycles.
You can buy a ticket for cash from the conductor on the train or at the ticket office by paying with a card. The ticket price is 3 euros, you don’t have to pay anything for the bike.

Figueira da Foz Railway Station / Estação de Caminhos de Ferro

A cycling tour from Coimbra to Figueira da Foz is not just a physical exercise, but a real journey into the history and nature of Portugal. Treat yourself to a unique experience combining knowledge, activity and the magic of the cultural heritage of this amazing region.

Additional Information:

Route: Coimbra – Castelo Montemor-o-Velho – Miradouro da Bandeira – Miradouro Murtinheira – Miradouro Cabo Mondego – Figueira da Foz

It is possible to rent an electric bike and equipment. The rental price depends on the number of tour participants, start and finish location.

The price of renting an electric bike includes personal insurance for the duration of the tour.