This road ride takes in both Ponte de Lima and Ponte da Barca, two medieval towns with picturesque bridges, that are around 20 kilometres from one another.
Most of the route follows the Lima River and is relatively flat.
The sting comes as you climb southeast from Ponte de Lima; you climb up out of the valley and drop back down to Ponte da Barca.
For an easier day, cross the river at Ponte de Lima and make this a flattish 60 kilometres round trip to Ponte de Lima.
John Dewey, is an avid cyclist with a tendency to underestimate total riding time (or over-estimate his speed)! It's been a few years since he hung up the TT skinsuit, but his love of riding continues unabated.
Highlights
The ancient town of Ponte de Lima is a great place to soak up some authentic Portugal atmosphere and grab a coffee.
Ponte de Barca is another charming medieval town in a scenic spot on the banks of the Lima River, close to Peneda-Geres National Park.
Route notes
1. Viana do Castelo to Ponte de Lima: 26 kilometres
The first section of the ride climbs south away from the town and through Darque, onto the N203 that winds all the way to Ponte de Lima.
2. Ponte de Lima to Ponte da Barca: 23 kilometres
The climb starts straight from the centre of the town with an initial two kilometres at 5% average out of the town. It’s a pleasant climb on the N307 that first crosses over the A3 motorway and then heads out of the houses into a beautiful forested area, leading to the real climb: a solid 8km at 5.5% average.
As you climb, the lush valley opens up on your right and the climbs tops out in the village of Armada.
After a short final kick up, you’re on a steep, fast descent all the way to Ponte da Barca.
3. Ponte da Barca to Viana do Castelo: 55 kilometres
From Ponte da Barca the route winds back along the valley, with a few lumps and bumps.
There are a few villages along the way and you can detour back into Ponte de Lima for refuelling if you need.
Religious connections in Ponte de Lima
Café stops
Both Ponte de Lima and Ponte da Barca are good sized towns with a range of options for refuelling.
Viana do Castelo also has plenty of options, including Peloton, which offers great coffee and a good selection of cakes, in a Girona-esque cobbled side street, complete with cycling memorabilia and a small shop and seating area at the back of the café.
Accommodation
We stayed at FeelViana Sport Hotel, just over the Lima River from Viana do Castelo. You’ll find full details in our guide to cycling Viana.
FeelViana Sport Hotel, surrounded by pine forest near Viana do Castelo
Tips
Make sure you read through our tips for cycling in Portugal before you travel.
Take extra care getting onto and off the Ponte Eiffel bridge in Viana do Castelo as this is busy and very confusing.
Generally drivers are patient and courteous although care is required on the narrow roads.
Not every rider will enjoy the traditional cobbles found in most of the towns and villages you ride through. Try to stay seated, hold the bars loosely and keep powering the legs!
Got a question for John?
Fill out this form and we will send it to John. We aim to get you an answer within 24 hours where possible!John Dewey, is an avid cyclist with a tendency to underestimate total riding time (or over-estimate his speed)! It's been a few years since he hung up the TT skinsuit, but his love of riding continues unabated.
First Published: 12 May 2025
All metrics in this article are approximate.
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Sponsor Message
FeelViana Sport Hotel is a four-star hotel located in Viana do Castelo, Portugal, next to Cabedelo Beach. With upmarket bohemian surf vibes, wood finishes and great food, it’s an excellent option for cyclists looking for a gorgeous spot to rest their head at night. The bike centre is well stocked and friendly, while the routes around the hotel has plenty for tourers, roadies and gravel cyclists alike. Non cyclists who love watersports, beaches and/or spas will also be very happy. Read more about our experience in the article above!