Distance 399 Km. distributed across roads of the following types:
Autopistas y autovías: 16 km. Carreteras Nacionales: 276.3 km. Autonómicas de 2º nivel: 101.7 km. Asfalto o cemento sin nombre: 5 km.
Sections: 35
Author:
Description:
After the intense mountain days that have accompanied us since the start of A Rota 18, this fourth stage marks a change of scenery and pace. We leave the high altitudes behind and head little by little toward the Atlantic coast, covering nearly 400 kilometers that will allow us to discover a completely different side of Portugal.
The first kilometers will once again demand our attention. Although we will still be riding on mountain roads, we will face the toughest stretches we have encountered so far on the trip, with constant gradients, linked bends, and magnificent views over the interior mountain ranges. It will be very enjoyable riding, where every mountain pass we clear will bring us a little closer to the valley.
As we continue, the terrain will begin to soften. The mountains will give way to increasingly rounded hills, broad agricultural areas, and forests of eucalyptus and pines, allowing us to enjoy a much more relaxed ride. Almost without noticing it, we will leave behind the wildest side of Portugal and enter regions where villages appear more frequently and the landscape takes on a much more open character.
The stage will also take us to two cities with enormous appeal. First we will reach Viseu, considered one of the most elegant historic cities in central Portugal, before continuing toward the coast to discover the charm of Aveiro, known as the Portuguese Venice for its canals and its colorful traditional boats.
In the second half of the route, national roads predominate, wide and comfortable, ideal for enjoying the trip without rushing as we pass through small towns, vineyards, crop fields, and peaceful rural areas. Traffic is usually light and the road surface excellent, which makes this part of the day a true pleasure for any motorcyclist.
The final kilometers will lead us to Coimbra, one of the country’s most emblematic cities and the stage’s final destination. Its historic university, its old town, and its student atmosphere will provide the perfect finishing touch to a very varied day, in which we will have gone from the most demanding mountains ridden so far to the gentle plains of central Portugal.
Section 1: - Trinta (12.3 Km)
We begin the fourth stage leaving behind the streets of Guarda, the highest city in Portugal. Soon we leave the urban setting to take a pleasant secondary road that leads us westward, gradually entering the landscapes of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park.
During these first kilometers we enjoy a relaxed ride on a road surface in very good condition. The road links gentle bends with small changes in gradient as we pass scattered neighborhoods and small villages, surrounded by meadows, stone walls, and vegetation that becomes increasingly prominent as we move away from the city.
The terrain begins to descend gradually, allowing us to take in lovely views of the valleys opening out to our left. It is an ideal stretch to get into the stage, enjoying the scenery without hurry and letting the rhythm of the journey set the pace.
After covering 12,3 kilometers, we reach the town of Trinta, the gateway to one of the most spectacular natural corners of central Portugal and the end point of this first stretch.
End of section
Section 2: Trinta - N18-1 (5.7 Km)
We leave Trinta behind to venture even deeper into the heart of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. The road narrows slightly and begins a steady descent among vegetation-covered slopes, offering a much more technical ride than the previous stretch. The bends come one after another, inviting us to enjoy the route while the landscape takes on an ever more prominent role.
Soon we pass through the small town of Fernão Joanes, where the granite houses remind us of the traditional architecture of this mountain region. Once past the urban center, we find ourselves back on a perfectly paved road that winds between forests, rocky outcrops and small ravines, following the mountain’s natural contours.
Over these kilometers the descent continues steadily, allowing us to take in new views of the valley as we alternate between sweeping curves and tighter bends. This is one of those stretches where it is worth forgetting the clock and simply enjoying the pleasure of riding along a road that seems made for motorcyclists.
After covering 18 kilometers, we reach a T-junction, where we turn right to begin the next stretch of the stage.
End of section
Section 3: N18-1 - N232 (8.2 Km)
We turn right to tackle one of the most spectacular sections of the stage. The N18-1 road continues to lose altitude as it winds its way through the slopes of the Serra da Estrela, linking bends of every radius on an excellent surface that invites you to enjoy the ride with calm and precision.
The landscape changes constantly. We alternate between wooded areas, slopes covered in scrub, and small natural viewpoints from which magnificent views of the valley unfold. The road follows the mountain relief with hardly any straight stretches, turning these kilometers into a true delight for any motorcyclist.
Further on we pass through the small settlement of Vale de Amoreira, where the road briefly becomes gentler before snaking once again between the mountains. Shortly after, signs for Covilhã and Belmonte appear, a sign that we are gradually leaving the Serra da Estrela behind as we head toward less rugged lands.
After traveling 8,2 kilometers, we reach a T-junction, where we turn right to join the N232 and begin the next section of the stage.
End of section
Section 4: N232 - M595 (79.8 Km)
We leave Manteigas behind to tackle one of the most spectacular sections of the entire stage. The road begins to climb decisively as we enter the heart of the Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela. Very soon the landscape changes completely: the built-up areas disappear and we are surrounded by mountains, pine forests and granite slopes that make it clear we are entering Portugal’s great mountain range.
For much of the route we link together an almost uninterrupted succession of wide, perfectly surfaced bends that invite you to enjoy the ride. As we gain altitude, the vegetation becomes sparser and the views begin to open out over the deep valleys we are leaving behind. Each new corner offers a different perspective of the Serra da Estrela, making this section a true delight for any motorcyclist.
After reaching the higher areas we begin a long, equally spectacular descent. The road winds along the mountainside while the horizon broadens and allows us to take in miles and miles of landscape. Little by little, the first houses reappear, a sign that we are leaving the high mountains and approaching inhabited areas once again.
Over the last few kilometers the ride becomes more relaxed. We leave the big gradients behind and link up wider roads until we reach the control point located at kilometer 106 of the stage. By now we have already passed the first hundred kilometers and leave behind one of the most memorable mountain sections of the entire trip. At the final junction, turn right to begin the next section.
End of section
Section 5: M595 - M594 (5 Km)
We begin a short stretch of barely five kilometres that lets us leave the mountain roads behind and head into a much calmer setting. We ride along the M595 on a road surface in good condition, linking gentle bends with short straight sections among pine woods, crop fields and scattered houses.
The scenery feels far more relaxed than in the previous kilometres. We pass through the outskirts of Pedreles and Escolas, enjoying a comfortable, smooth ride as we make our way along a secondary road with very little traffic and a distinctly rural atmosphere.
When we reach kilometre 111 of the stage, we finish this short link, which serves to help us recover a more leisurely riding pace after the demanding crossing of the Serra da Estrela. At the final junction, we turn right to join the M594 and begin the next stretch.
End of section
Section 6: M594 - Indeterminada (4 Km)
We leave Mosteirinho behind to continue along the M594 on a short stretch that preserves the pleasant character of the secondary roads of inland Portugal. We ride between small villages and agricultural areas, crossing a peaceful landscape where pine forests and vegetation once again take center stage. The road surface continues to offer very good conditions, and traffic remains light.
The road alternates gentle descents with wide bends that allow us to keep a relaxed pace. As we move on, we leave the last houses behind and return to a completely rural setting, where the silence and lack of traffic make the ride especially enjoyable.
After covering four kilometers, we reach kilometer 115 of the stage, where this short connection ends. At the final junction, turn left to leave the M594 and continue on the road that will take us toward the next stretch.
End of section
Section 7: Indeterminada - Sao Joao de Lourosa (5 Km)
We continue our route along a narrow unnamed local road that winds gently between small villages, meadows, and patches of woodland. The surface is in good condition and traffic is virtually nonexistent, allowing us to enjoy a relaxed ride as we cross a landscape that is typically rural in central Portugal.
Over these five kilometres, we alternate gentle bends with short straight sections, passing scattered houses and small farms. The road links the villages of Quinta dos Frades and Lajeosa, where the unhurried pace of rural life accompanies every kilometre of the journey. It is a short stretch, but one that is very pleasant for taking in the surroundings without any rush.
At kilometre 120 of the stage, we arrive in the town of São João de Lourosa, where this stretch ends. In São João de Lourosa, we will turn right to join the M593 while still in this town.
End of section
Section 8: Sao Joao de Lourosa - N231 (2 Km)
We leave São João de Lourosa behind to cover a short stretch that takes us along a broad entrance avenue into Viseu. The road is wide, with a good surface and traffic a little heavier than what we have found over the last rural kilometers, although it still flows smoothly.
We ride past residential areas and small industrial zones, crossing the outskirts of the city as the rural landscape gradually gives way to a clearly urban setting. This short connection serves to bring us closer to one of the most important cities in central Portugal before we set off in search of quieter roads again.
At kilometer 122 of the stage, this stretch comes to an end. At the roundabout, we take the first exit to join the N231 and continue our route toward the next stretch.
End of section
Section 9: N231 - VISEU (3 Km)
We travel just 3 km along the N231 to enter Viseu, one of the most interesting historic cities in central Portugal. The road crosses a fully urban area, with wide avenues, several roundabouts and heavier traffic than we have encountered so far, so it is wise to stay especially alert and adapt to the city’s pace.
With just over 120 kilometers covered since the start of the stage, this is an excellent place to stop and spend some time discovering Viseu. Its old town preserves a magnificent medieval atmosphere, with cobbled streets, lively squares and landmarks such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria, Sé Square, the Grão Vasco Museum and the old city walls. It is also a pleasant city for strolling around and enjoying Portuguese cuisine before continuing the route.
At this point we leave the N231 to continue our ride through the city streets toward the next section.
End of section
Section 10: VISEU - Sao Pedro do Sul (22 Km)
We leave Viseu via the N16 heading toward São Pedro do Sul, leaving the city traffic behind as the road winds its way between gentle hills and small villages. For the first few kilometers we ride along a wide, well-paved road that soon gives way to a much more enjoyable stretch, surrounded by pine forests, cultivated fields, and meadows.
The route alternates long straights with broad, flowing bends that let us keep a steady pace and enjoy the ride. We pass through towns such as Bodiosa, Queirã, and Póvoa de Bodiosa, where the landscape blends traditional houses with farms and lush vegetation. As we approach the Vouga River valley, the road begins to descend gently, offering lovely views of the slopes surrounding São Pedro do Sul.
At kilometer 147 of the stage we arrive in São Pedro do Sul, a town famous for its thermal baths, considered among the oldest in the Iberian Peninsula and already in use in Roman times. If we have time, it is well worth heading to the historic spa or taking a stroll through the pleasant surroundings of the Vouga River before continuing our adventure. From here we continue straight ahead to begin the next section of the route.
End of section
Section 11: Sao Pedro do Sul - Vila Cha (56 Km)
We leave São Pedro do Sul to tackle one of the longest stretches of the stage, covering 56 kilometers on the N227 through a landscape of constant changes in direction, small villages, and lush forests. The road has excellent asphalt and a very enjoyable layout, linking bends of every radius with short straight sections that make this stretch a real pleasure for any motorcyclist.
For much of the route we ride alongside the Vouga river valley, passing through small settlements such as Janarde, Covas, Carvalhal do Chão, and Arões, where time seems to have stood still. Dense pine woods, eucalyptus trees, and vegetation-covered slopes are constant companions to the road, which rises and falls gently, adapting to the mountain terrain. In some spots, beautiful views open up over the valleys and mountains of central Portugal, inviting us to slow down and enjoy the scenery.
As we go on, the road remains very twisty, offering dynamic riding that is always enjoyable thanks to the light traffic. It is one of those stretches where it is hard not to enjoy linking one curve after another as we pass through a natural setting of great beauty.
At the end of this section we reach kilometer 203 of the stage, having already passed the halfway point of this fourth day’s route. We arrive in Vila Chã, where the stretch ends and from where we will continue our journey along the roads of inland Portugal.
End of section
Section 12: Vila Cha - Sobradelo (4 Km)
We leave Vila Chã behind to cover a short stretch of barely four kilometers on the N224. The road is wide, with excellent pavement and very open bends that allow for comfortable riding as we continue parallel to the valley. The surroundings once again show us a landscape dominated by forests and the gentle mountains of inland Portugal, with very little traffic and a pleasant sense of calm.
Although it is a brief link, the ride is enjoyable thanks to the width of the road and the views that open up over the vegetation-covered slopes. In just a few minutes we reach Sobradelo, a small locality in the municipality of Vale de Cambra, surrounded by nature and very close to the Serra da Freita, a natural area known for its viewpoints, hiking routes and geological curiosities such as the famous Pedras Parideiras, unique rocks capable of shedding small fragments of granite.
End of section
Section 13: Sobradelo - Mo (7 Km)
We leave Sobradelo to join the M1326, a secondary road that takes us right back into the most authentic atmosphere of inland Portugal. Over these seven kilometres, we ride along a narrow, perfectly surfaced road, surrounded by woods, meadows and small villages where there is barely any traffic. It is one of those stretches that invite you to ease off the pace and enjoy the scenery without any rush.
The route runs parallel to the valley, passing through places such as Ribeira de Cima and Ribeira de Baixo, where the vegetation becomes especially lush. In some sections, the trees form a pleasant natural tunnel over the road, while the gentle bends and constant changes of direction make for a very enjoyable ride. The sound of the water and the river’s closeness accompany much of the journey, bringing a pleasant feeling of freshness.
When we reach Mo, this stretch ends at kilometre 214 of the stage. This small rural settlement preserves the traditional character of the region intact and is the perfect prelude to continue heading into the mountains of central Portugal. At the final junction, we turn left to continue our route along the N224-3.
End of section
Section 14: Mo - N224 (13 Km)
We leave Mo behind to cover the thirteen kilometers of this stretch along the N224-3, a secondary road that once again treats us to a very enjoyable ride. The first kilometers pass through small villages where traditional houses alternate with more modern homes, while the road links gentle bends with others that are a little tighter. The surface is in good condition and traffic is usually light, so we can enjoy a relaxed ride.
After leaving the inhabited areas, the landscape changes quickly and we head into a much more wooded environment. Pine forests and eucalyptus trees accompany much of the route, forming a pleasant green corridor. The road winds between small hills and rocky embankments, alternating faster sections with more twisty ones that keep the motorcyclist engaged at all times.
As we approach the end of the stretch, the first houses reappear, announcing our arrival at the N224. By this point we have already covered 227 kilometers of the stage, a good reference for checking how far we have progressed toward the west of Portugal. The route remains very varied and there are still many corners waiting to be discovered.
At the final junction, we will continue straight ahead to join the N224 and carry on with the route.
End of section
Section 15: N224 - Estarreja (3 Km)
This short stretch of just three kilometres takes us to Estarreja along the N224. The road runs entirely through an urban setting, crossing residential neighbourhoods where detached houses, small housing developments and a few local shops predominate. Traffic can be somewhat heavier than on the previous stretches, so it is wise to keep a steady pace and pay attention to the many driveways and pedestrian crossings.
In just a few minutes we arrive in Estarreja, a town well worth a short stop. Its main attraction is the Parque Municipal do Antuã, a pleasant green space ideal for a stroll, as well as the Iglesia de San Pedro, located in the town centre. Very close by is also the BioRia, one of the most interesting natural areas in the Ría de Aveiro, with boardwalks and observation hides to discover birds and the characteristic wetland landscapes.
At the end of this stretch we reach kilometre 230 of the stage. Little by little we are leaving the more mountainous inland areas behind to head into a much flatter region, where the closeness of the Atlantic begins to make itself felt both in the landscape and in the atmosphere.
End of section
Section 16: Estarreja - A25 (7 Km)
We leave Estarreja to cover the seven kilometers of this section, following the IC1 southbound. In the first few meters we pass through the outskirts of the city, among residential areas, small industries, and shops, before the road opens up and flows more smoothly. The layout is almost flat, allowing us to keep a steady pace, very different from the mountain roads that have accompanied us for much of the day.
The proximity of the Ria de Aveiro is noticeable in the landscape, much more open and horizontal. Urban areas follow one another quickly and traffic increases slightly, although the ride remains comfortable thanks to the width of the road. This stretch acts as a fast connector that gradually brings us closer to the Portuguese coast.
At kilometer 237 of the stage we reach the junction with the A25. By this point in the route, we have definitively left the great mountains of the interior behind and find ourselves immersed in a much flatter region, shaped by the influence of the Atlantic and the marshes of the Ria de Aveiro.
The section ends at the junction with the A25. At the merge, we will keep right to take the motorway westbound and continue the route.
End of section
Section 17: A25 - AVEIRO (16 Km)
From the junction with the A25 we continue west along this comfortable highway for a few kilometres. The ride is very smooth, with impeccable pavement and wide lanes that let us make good progress as we leave behind the last industrial and residential areas of Estarreja. Little by little we draw closer to Aveiro, one of the most distinctive cities in Portugal.
We leave the highway and head into the urban area of Aveiro. The avenues are wide and well signposted, although traffic increases considerably compared with the previous stretches. Riding through here means easing off the pace and paying attention to roundabouts, intersections and traffic lights as we cross different neighbourhoods of the city.
After 253 kilometres we reach Aveiro, known as the Portuguese Venice thanks to its canals crossed by the traditional moliceiros, brightly coloured boats once used to collect algae. If we have a little time to spare, it is well worth strolling through the historic centre, heading to the picturesque Beira-Mar district, visiting the Aveiro Museum housed in the former Convent of Jesus, or simply soaking up the atmosphere on its canal-side terraces. We also cannot leave without trying the famous ovos moles, the city’s most emblematic sweet.
The stage ends in Aveiro, where we leave the A25 to continue our route through the city in the direction of the Atlantic.
End of section
Section 18: AVEIRO - Gafanha da Encamacao (7 Km)
We leave Aveiro behind on the M587 to cover the seven kilometres that separate us from Gafanha da Encarnação. During the first few metres we pass through a broad urban area, with straight avenues, roundabouts and small industrial estates. The ride is comfortable and smooth, although it is worth paying attention to the traffic typical of the outskirts of a major city.
Little by little we begin to sense that the Atlantic is drawing near. The air changes and that distinctive coastal smell appears, a blend of salt, dampness and sea breeze that will stay with us for the next few kilometres. It is a sensation that is hard to describe, but unmistakable to anyone who has travelled near the ocean.
We arrive in Gafanha da Encarnação when the odometer already shows 260 kilometres of the stage. This town is part of the narrow strip of land that separates the Aveiro Lagoon from the Atlantic Ocean. Very close by is the spectacular Praia da Costa Nova, famous for its colourful striped wooden houses, one of the most photographed places in Portugal. It is also worth heading over to the Aveiro Lighthouse, the tallest in the country, located beside the long Praia da Barra.
End of section
Section 19: Gafanha da Encamacao - M335-1 (35 Km)
We leave Gafanha da Encarnação behind to tackle one of the most special stretches of this stage. Over the next thirty-five kilometres we will ride practically parallel to the Atlantic Ocean, following a completely flat road that crosses small coastal villages and extensive areas of dunes and pine woods. The riding is calm, with long straights and very gentle bends that invite us to enjoy the scenery without rushing.
From the very first kilometres, the atmosphere changes completely. Salty air is always with us, and the unmistakable scent of the Atlantic blends with the aroma of the pine forests growing on the dunes. To our right stretch endless beaches of fine sand, while to the left appear lagoons, canals and wetlands linked to the Ría de Aveiro. It is a landscape very different from the one we have travelled through all morning in the mountainous interior of Portugal.
The road passes through places such as Praia da Barra, Praia da Mira and other small coastal settlements where it is well worth stopping for a few minutes to take in the ocean. If we have time, Praia da Barra offers its imposing lighthouse, the tallest in Portugal, while Praia da Mira preserves the feel of a traditional fishing village, with a pleasant seafront promenade and a long beach open to the Atlantic.
As the kilometres go by, long rows of maritime pines dominate the scene, protecting the coast from the wind and anchoring the dunes. Traffic is usually light outside the summer season, allowing us to enjoy a relaxed ride while the murmur of the ocean seems to accompany us for much of the route.
At the end of this stretch we reach kilometre 295 of the stage. After crossing the mountains of the Serra da Estrela and the heart of the country, we now ride beside the immense Atlantic, experiencing a landscape contrast that perfectly sums up the enormous diversity of Portugal.
This stretch ends at a T-junction, where we will turn left to join the M335-1 and continue our route south, following the coastline.
End of section
Section 20: M335-1 - Tocha (5 Km)
This five-kilometre stretch takes us from the M335-1 to Tocha along a completely flat road with an easy layout. After travelling along the Atlantic coast, we continue on through pine groves, small residential areas and sandy ground that constantly remind us how close the ocean always is. The surface is in good condition and the ride is very comfortable, ideal for enjoying the scenery with barely any effort.
The route crosses a quiet area, where houses appear scattered among the pines and coastal vegetation. The air still carries that faint salty scent that has been with us since Aveiro, while the Atlantic breeze eases the temperature even on the warmest days.
With 300 kilometres behind us, we reach Tocha, a small town closely linked to the coast of the Coimbra region. A few kilometres away lies the well-known Praia da Tocha, a long stretch of fine sand awarded Blue Flag status and much loved both by surfers and by those looking for a much calmer atmosphere than at other seaside destinations. Its seafront promenade and traditional fishermen's houses preserve much of the character of this part of the Portuguese coastline.
The stretch ends in Tocha, gradually leaving the coast of Aveiro behind and taking us into the district of Coimbra
So it is time to turn the page in our A Rota 18 passport.
End of section
Section 21: Tocha - N109-8 (12 Km)
We leave Tocha to cover the twelve kilometers of this stretch along the IC1, a wide road, completely flat and with an excellent surface. During the first kilometers we ride past small towns and scattered developments, while the landscape begins to open up and gives way to vast pine forests and sandy terrain characteristic of the central coast of Portugal.
The ride is very relaxed. Long straights alternate with gentle bends, and traffic is usually light, allowing us to enjoy the journey without any rush. The scent of the Atlantic continues to accompany us, now blending with the strong smell of the maritime pines that line much of the road. Although the sea remains hidden behind the dune cordon, we know it is very close by.
In the second half of the stretch, the surroundings gradually become more urban again. New buildings, hotels, shops, and broad avenues appear, announcing our arrival at one of the best-known tourist destinations on this Portuguese coast.
After 312 kilometers, we reach Praia de Mira. In addition to its long fine-sand beach and seafront promenade, it is worth making your way to Barrinha de Mira, a peaceful lagoon connected to the ocean that offers a landscape very different from that of the open beaches. The town also retains the atmosphere of a traditional fishing village and is a perfect place to take a break before continuing the route.
The stretch ends at an intersection where we will turn right to join the N109-8 and continue our journey south.
End of section
Section 22: N109-8 - Figueira da Foz (18 Km)
We leave Praia de Mira behind to cover the next eighteen kilometres of this stage, following the N109-8 in the direction of Figueira da Foz. The road maintains a very comfortable, almost flat layout, crossing a vast coastal pine forest where long straights alternate with gentle bends. The excellent condition of the asphalt and the lack of difficulty on this stretch invite a relaxed ride.
For much of the route, the characteristic landscape of the Portuguese Atlantic coast keeps us company. The scents of the sea mingle with the intense smell of pine resin, while on both sides small developments, dune areas and access roads to beaches hidden behind the forest begin to appear. It is one of those stretches where it is well worth easing off a little to enjoy the surroundings.
Just before reaching Figueira da Foz we cross the Parque Florestal da Figueira da Foz, a pleasant green space much frequented by hikers and cyclists. From here the road turns towards the coast and broad avenues, modern buildings and the atmosphere of an important seaside city begin to appear.
With 330 kilometres covered, we reach Figueira da Foz, one of the main tourist destinations in central Portugal. Its immense urban beach, considered one of the widest in Europe, the historic Forte de Santa Catarina, the elegant Casino Figueira and the lively seafront promenade make the city an excellent place to stop and enjoy the Atlantic atmosphere before taking on the final stretch of the stage.
End of section
Section 23: Figueira da Foz - N111-2 (1 Km)
This short stretch guides us through the streets of Figueira da Foz as we leave the city heading east, crossing the Mondego River. Although we only cover a kilometre, the surroundings quickly change from the urban atmosphere of the centre to quieter areas, with houses, small shops and wide avenues that make for comfortable riding.
As we leave the coast behind, we are still accompanied by the presence of the Mondego estuary, one of Portugal’s great rivers, which flows into Figueira da Foz after travelling more than 250 kilometres from the Serra da Estrela. Its waters have shaped the history and development of this seaside town for centuries.
In just a few minutes we leave the urban core and head towards quieter roads, leaving behind the bustle of the seafront promenade to return to a much more rural landscape, where we will recover the unhurried pace of the route.
The stretch ends at an intersection where we must turn left to join the N111-2 and continue our journey on to the next stretch.
End of section
Section 24: N111-2 - Caceira de Cima (9 Km)
We definitively leave the surroundings of Figueira da Foz behind to head inland once again along the N111-2. The road soon regains the character of Portuguese secondary routes, with a surface in good condition, gentle bends and a very pleasant layout that winds between small hills covered with pinewoods and eucalyptus trees.
The landscape changes once more. We leave the coastal atmosphere behind and are surrounded by forests, meadows and small scattered villages where life seems to pass at a much slower pace. Traffic is light and the road invites you to enjoy the ride, linking broad bends with short straight stretches that let you take in the surroundings.
In the last few kilometres, shortly before reaching Caceira de Cima, we find the Dolmen de Carniçosa signposted, one of the most interesting megalithic monuments in this part of Portugal. This prehistoric tomb, several thousand years old, is a curious reminder of the first settlers of these lands and deserves a short stop for those who enjoy discovering small historical treasures away from the usual routes.
As we reach kilometre 340 of the stage, little by little we begin to say goodbye to the Atlantic and head inland, enjoying a quiet road that provides the perfect finishing touch to a very varied day.
The stage ends upon arriving in Caceira de Cima, where we will continue our route towards the next stage.
End of section
Section 25: Caceira de Cima - N347 (2 Km)
We resume our ride from Caceira de Cima to cover a short but enjoyable stretch that takes us to the N347. The road surface remains excellent and links together several wide, very flowing bends among pine groves and Mediterranean vegetation, offering a comfortable and engaging ride.
We are now in the final stretch of the stage. With only 57 kilometers to go to today’s destination, the pace becomes leisurely again, perfect for savoring the last kilometers without haste. Traffic remains light, and the surroundings invite us to relax as we let the road set the rhythm.
In just two kilometers we reach a roundabout where several roads in the area converge. It is a short stretch, but it serves as a transition between the quiet secondary roads inland and the routes that will lead us over the last kilometers to the end of this fourth stage.
The stretch ends at a roundabout where we must take the exit to the left to join the N347 and continue our route.
End of section
Section 26: N347 - Alhadas de Baixo (2 Km)
We continue along the N347 for a short stretch that takes us to Alhadas de Baixo. The road keeps a straightforward layout and a very good surface, passing through small villages where traditional houses sit alongside more recent buildings. Riding here is calm, and we hardly come across any traffic.
As we go on, we draw ever closer to the end of the day’s ride. We are now only 55 kilometers from today’s destination, so these short stretches invite us to take things slowly, letting ourselves be carried along by the gentle pace of rural Portugal.
The streets of Alhadas de Baixo retain the atmosphere of an agricultural town, with low houses, small gardens, and everyday life unfolding far from the main tourist routes. It is a brief stretch, but an enjoyable one, allowing us to once again savor the closeness of the Portuguese villages before tackling the final kilometers of the stage.
The stretch ends on arrival in Alhadas de Baixo. From here we will continue our route along the M594 toward the next stretch.
End of section
Section 27: Alhadas de Baixo - Anta (5 Km)
We leave Alhadas de Baixo behind to continue on the M594, a narrow local road that once again immerses us in the peaceful rural landscape of central Portugal. The pavement remains in good condition, and the route alternates short straights with gentle bends through pine groves, eucalyptus trees and meadows where traffic virtually disappears.
On this stretch, riding returns to a calm, unhurried pace. We pass through small villages and cultivated fields where time seems to move more slowly. The air is once again scented with eucalyptus and freshly cut grass, while the silence of the surroundings is broken only by the sound of our motorcycles as we link each curve.
We now have only 50 kilometers to go to our destination today. After crossing mountains, historic cities and the Atlantic coast, these last kilometers on secondary roads let us once again enjoy the essence of rural Portugal, the kind that rarely appears in travel guides.
We finally arrive in the small town of Anta, a quiet agricultural settlement where traditional houses predominate and a serene atmosphere invites us to continue the journey without haste.
The stretch ends upon reaching Anta, from where we will continue our route along the N111 toward the next section.
End of section
Section 28: Anta - M601 (3 Km)
We leave Anta to rejoin the N111 and tackle a short stretch of barely three kilometres. The road is completely flat and straight, with an impeccable surface that invites a relaxed ride as we cross an open landscape of fields, meadows and small patches of vegetation.
One of the most striking features of the route is crossing an elegant metal bridge with an arched structure that spans the bed of a small river. Its silhouette breaks the monotony of the plain and makes for one of those spots that catch your eye unexpectedly, adding a special appeal to this short stretch.
At just 47 kilometres from our destination today, the feeling is that the stage is slowly drawing to a close. The road keeps a very smooth pace and the surroundings once again convey that characteristic calm of Portugal's secondary roads, allowing us to enjoy the final kilometres in complete peace.
The section ends at an intersection where we turn gently right to join the M601 and continue our route on to the next stretch.
End of section
Section 29: M601 - M620 (7 Km)
This seven-kilometre stretch continues along the M601, crossing one of the quietest areas in the Mondego valley. The road surface is in good condition and combines short straight sections with very gentle bends that make for relaxed riding. The scenery alternates between farmland, small villages and broad riverside areas, creating a pleasant sense of calm as we ride on.
In the first few kilometres we cross the Mondego River twice. From the bridges there are lovely views of the riverbed, where the water flows slowly between the abundant riverside vegetation. It is a serene setting, perfect for pausing for a few moments and taking in one of Portugal’s most important rivers, which rises in the Serra da Estrela and flows into the Atlantic after travelling more than 250 kilometres.
With only 40 kilometres left to our destination today, the route keeps a very enjoyable pace. The small towns of Alminhas and Doutor José Galvão appear scattered among fields and groves, showing that traditional Portuguese architecture of low houses and quiet streets that characterises this part of the country.
The stretch ends at a junction where we turn right to join the M620 and continue on to the next section.
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Section 30: M620 - Carvalhal Azóia (3 Km)
The M620 offers us a short stretch of barely three kilometres, serving as a transition before taking on the final part of the stage. The road is narrow but has a good surface, running between small stands of eucalyptus, olive groves and a few scattered houses that appear occasionally along the shoulder. Traffic is usually light, which makes for calm and relaxed riding.
Just 33 kilometres from today’s destination, the route invites you to enjoy the scenery without hurrying. The gentle bends link with short straight sections while the rural surroundings convey the characteristic tranquillity of the interior of the Coimbra district. The birdsong and the whisper of the wind through the trees briefly replace any other sound.
Shortly before the end of the stretch we enter the locality of Carvalhal Azóia, a small cluster of traditional houses where the road narrows slightly as it passes through its streets. It is one of those discreet places that still preserve the untouched atmosphere of rural Portugal, far from the main tourist routes.
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Section 31: Carvalhal Azóia - Vila Nova de Anços (7 Km)
This seven-kilometre stretch continues along the M1111, a narrow and quiet secondary road that crosses a distinctly agricultural landscape. The road surface is in good condition and traffic is practically nonexistent, allowing for relaxed riding among small rural settlements, crop fields and gentle undulations in the terrain.
Just 26 kilometres from our destination for the day, the route runs through a serene setting where orchards, olive groves and working farms predominate. Long straights alternate with some very wide bends that keep the pace flowing, while the horizon begins to open up, hinting at the coastal plain we are heading towards.
The road passes through small villages such as Outeiro das Eiras, where time seems to move slowly among traditional houses and narrow streets. A little later we once again head between fields and areas of vegetation before reaching Vila Nova de Anços, a town with an interesting religious heritage. Its main landmark is the Church of São Domingos, of medieval origin although remodelled in later centuries, around which part of the town’s historic character is still preserved.
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Section 32: Vila Nova de Anços - Sebal (10 Km)
The M1111-3 continues to guide us through the quiet interior of Coimbra district for ten kilometers of relaxed riding. It is a secondary road with a good surface, narrow in some stretches, winding between extensive eucalyptus and pine forests interspersed with small agricultural areas and a few scattered houses. Traffic remains very light, allowing for a pleasant, steady pace.
The route keeps that unhurried atmosphere that characterizes this part of Portugal. The gentle bends link one after another with ease, while gaps in the forest occasionally open onto views of the rolling hills and farmland that surround the road.
For much of the way, the air is filled with the unmistakable scent of eucalyptus, a fresh, soothing fragrance that accompanies the rider and brings a pleasant sense of nature. It is one of those details that make this stretch an experience that goes beyond the ride itself.
The section ends in Sebal, a small locality belonging to the municipality of Condeixa-a-Nova. If you have a little time, it is worth heading to the Iglesia Matriz de Sebal, a church of medieval origin closely tied to the history of the region, preserving the traditional character of the small villages of central Portugal.
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Section 33: Sebal - Sobreiro (3 Km)
The M607 takes us for just three kilometres along a narrow, very quiet secondary road that crosses the outskirts of Condeixa-a-Nova. The surface is in good condition and traffic is practically nonexistent, making it possible to enjoy a relaxed ride among small residential areas, vegetable gardens and open fields.
Just 13 kilometres from today’s destination, the landscape begins to hint at Coimbra’s proximity. Without losing the rural feel of the final kilometres, more scattered houses and small neighbourhoods start to appear, foreshadowing the arrival in a more populated area.
Before reaching Sobreiro, it is worth remembering that very close by lies one of Portugal’s great archaeological treasures: the Roman city of Conímbriga. Considered the best-preserved Roman site in the country, it lets you wander through ancient streets, thermal baths, patrician houses with magnificent mosaics and part of its walls. If the traveller has time at the end of the stage, it is highly recommended.
The section ends in Sobreiro, a small residential town from where we will continue towards the final kilometres of this fourth stage.
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Section 34: Sobreiro - Taveiro (7 Km)
Road N1-7 gradually brings us to the end of the stage along a comfortable and very pleasant seven-kilometre stretch to ride. The surface is in excellent condition and the roadway, a little wider than in the previous sections, lets us link the gentle bends with complete fluidity as we pass through extensive stands of eucalyptus and pine.
The landscape remains distinctly wooded, alternating with small clearings where a few isolated houses and agricultural estates appear. The ride is relaxed, with hardly any traffic, inviting us to enjoy the last kilometres before returning to a more urban setting.
At this point in the stage, the proximity of Coimbra is already noticeable. Roundabouts, access roads to housing developments and somewhat heavier traffic begin to appear little by little, unmistakable signs that we are approaching one of the most important cities in Portugal.
The stretch ends in Taveiro, an old village situated on the banks of the Mondego River and now part of the municipality of Coimbra. Among its main attractions are the Church of São Tiago and the pleasant river setting surrounding the town, traditionally used as a leisure area by the inhabitants of the region.
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Section 35: Taveiro - COIMBRA (10 Km)
The final ten kilometres of the fourth stage take us to Coimbra, one of Portugal’s most historic and characterful cities. We leave the quiet rural roads behind for good and join a broad, well-paved road where traffic gradually increases. As we continue, the first residential districts appear, along with wide avenues and the pace typical of a regional capital.
From some elevated points, the road offers magnificent views of Coimbra stretching along both banks of the Mondego River. The city’s skyline, dominated by the University on the upper hill, hints at our arrival in one of the country’s most emblematic places.
The urban approach is well signposted and easy to follow. It is worth paying closer attention to traffic and the access roundabouts, however, as the volume of vehicles is considerably higher than on the kilometres covered during this day’s ride.
The reward is well worth it. Coimbra was the capital of Portugal during the Middle Ages and today is home to the University of Coimbra, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the impressive Joanina Library, the Sé Velha (Old Cathedral), the narrow streets of the historic centre, or a walk along the banks of the Mondego River. It is a city full of university atmosphere, history and charming corners, perfect for putting the finishing touch to this intense stage.
With the arrival in Coimbra, the fourth stage of A Rota 18 comes to an end. After 399 kilometres of riding, we will have gone from the mountains of the Serra da Estrela to the plains of the Atlantic coast, enjoying a day as varied as it is spectacular, before tackling the next adventure that awaits us tomorrow.
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