From start to finish this was a professionally orchestrated tour. The hotels were spectacular, particularly Convento de espinheiro and São Lourenço do Barrocal ( we could have spent a week in this location!). The riding was truly incredible - we have cycled on self-guided trips in multiple European countries and domestically, and this was some of the most unique and safe riding we have ever experienced. On some or the roads, you often could forget that cars occasionally also used the road. High quality scott addict road bikes with ultegra components were provided in excellent condition. Pedro provide a diligent briefing with great recommendations for stops and restaurants in multiple locations. We will return to do the Douro valley!
Our 7-day guided tour with Live, Love, Ride was everything we had hoped for and more. Our guides, Ricardo and Andre, were knowledgeable, engaging and very customer-focused. We loved their local knowledge and often asked Ricardo to order meals for the group knowing we would get the best of what was offered in the region. Our equipment, the transportation, the hotels and restaurants we visited were all top notch. The trip was a great value for the money - wrapping the services of travel agent, tour guide, and concierge all in one. The tour itself traveled through Alentejo and Algarve, took us to many beautiful beaches along the Western and Southern coast of Portugal. The riding was a mix of gravel trail and paved surface, and we were grateful for the assist from our e-bikes! Highlights included the fresh fish, the local wines, the beautiful beaches, and the premium hotels in remote locations that combined beautiful views of the countryside with first-class accommodations. The trip will leave us with memories for a lifetime. I highly recommend Live, Love, Ride for your next bike tour.
