Distance 422 Km. distributed across roads of the following types:
Autopistas y autovías: 30 km. Carreteras Nacionales: 161.4 km. Autonómicas de 2º nivel: 86.8 km. Asfalto o cemento sin nombre: 143.8 km.
Sections: 44
Author:
Description:
The sixth stage of A Rota 18 will take us from Castelo Branco to Lisbon over 456 kilometers. After several days discovering the north and center of Portugal, it is time to head toward the country’s capital, crossing some of the regions with the greatest historical and heritage richness in Portuguese territory.
It will be a very varied stage. During the first kilometers we will still find some roads with a bit of elevation, although the main mountain pass will appear roughly between kilometers 60 and 90. Once this section is behind us, the profile becomes gentler and the ride becomes much smoother, alternating long straights, gentle rises and secondary roads that pass through small villages and wide agricultural areas.
Over the course of the day we will cover 456 kilometers divided between national roads, regional roads and small local roads, a combination that will let us enjoy both relaxed riding and some of the most interesting places in central Portugal. The route will bring us close to important historic landmarks such as Tomar, with its impressive Convento de Cristo; Batalha and its monumental Mosteiro da Batalha; Alcobaça, home to the Mosteiro de Alcobaça; the medieval village of Óbidos; the coast of Nazaré and Peniche, before continuing south until reaching the mouth of the Tagus and the city of Lisboa.
It will be a day in which history, heritage and the Atlantic Ocean will increasingly take center stage as we make our way west. After several days dominated by the mountains and valleys of the interior, the landscape will give way to a more open territory, with wide roads, villages steeped in history and especially enjoyable riding that will carry us all the way to the Portuguese capital.
Section 1: - Indeterminada (22.2 Km)
The sixth stage begins by leaving Castelo Branco via the N112 heading northwest. For the first few kilometres, the road crosses the outskirts of the city before giving way to an increasingly open landscape, where gentle hills, farmland and the broad dehesas typical of Beira Baixa dominate.
The surface is in good condition and the roadway is wide, allowing for a comfortable, relaxed ride. The bends are broad and linked together, with long straights that invite you to enjoy the surroundings without any fuss. As we leave the city behind, traffic drops noticeably and the road takes on a much calmer character.
The route passes through small localities such as Juncal do Campo and Salgueiro do Campo, two farming villages where life seems to stand still. Shortly afterwards we will pass by the Río Ocreza, one of the main river courses in the interior of this region, flowing between Mediterranean woodlands and extensive cultivated areas.
During this first stretch we will begin to appreciate the immensity of the characteristic Beira Baixa landscape, with vast horizons, holm oak groves, olive trees and open fields that contrast with the mountains covered during the previous stage.
The stretch ends at a junction where we must turn left to join an officially unnamed road, which in A Rota 18 we identify as an indeterminate road.
End of section
Section 2: Indeterminada - Arenha de Cima (9.2 Km)
We continue along this unnamed road, which remains in excellent condition and offers a very pleasant riding line. The road winds gently between pine groves, small Mediterranean woods and scrubland, alternating broad bends with short straight stretches that let you keep a relaxed pace.
Soon we will pass through the small villages of Pousafoles do Bispo and Grade, where the rural atmosphere still takes center stage. These are traditional communities in Beira Baixa, with houses of popular architecture and surroundings dominated by forests and farmland.
As we move on, the landscape grows greener and greener. Pine groves accompany almost the entire route, and the road runs between gentle hills, offering relaxed, very smooth riding, with little traffic and good visibility.
In the last few kilometers we will enter Arenha de Cima, a small locality that preserves the charm of inland Portuguese villages. Very close to here is the Parque Natural do Tejo Internacional, one of Portugal's most important protected natural areas, which we will begin to skirt over the next stages of the route.
When we reach the T-junction, we must turn left to continue the route.
End of section
Section 3: Arenha de Cima - Sarzedas (5.7 Km)
From Arenha de Cima we continue along the M548, a narrow secondary road with good surface that plunges right into the forest landscape of the Beira Baixa. Traffic is practically nonexistent, and the succession of gentle bends and small changes in elevation makes this stretch a real pleasure to ride.
The road crosses an environment dominated by extensive pine forests, holm oak groves and patches of Mediterranean scrub, alternating with small open areas from which lovely views are gained of the hills surrounding the region. In spring, the road edges are covered with wildflowers that add a special splash of colour to the landscape.
For much of the route we will ride very close to the Parque Natural do Tejo Internacional, one of the best-preserved natural areas in Portugal, where Mediterranean forests and river valleys are home to an important population of birds of prey and a great diversity of wildlife.
Shortly before reaching the end of the stretch we will enter Sarzedas, one of the historic villages of the municipality of Castelo Branco. It is worth stopping for a few minutes to admire the Castillo de Sarzedas, an ancient medieval fortification linked to the Order of the Temple that still preserves part of its walls and offers excellent views over the valley.
At the junction in the centre of the village we must turn right to continue the route.
End of section
Section 4: Sarzedas - Indeterminada (2.7 Km)
We leave Sarzedas behind on the N233 to tackle a short but very enjoyable stretch, surrounded by a landscape dominated by holm oaks, cork oaks and pine forests. The road has an excellent surface and a flowing layout, with broad bends and good visibility that let us enjoy the ride from the very first moment.
Along these kilometres we will cross one of the most characteristic areas of Beira Baixa, where Mediterranean woodland alternates with small farms and dehesas. Traffic is usually very light, so it is easy to keep a steady pace while we enjoy the tranquillity of the surroundings.
On our left, very nearby, lies the Parque Natural do Tejo Internacional, a protected area of enormous ecological value that we will keep accompanying for a good part of this stage. Its landscape of gentle mountain ranges, ravines and extensive forests is one of the great natural treasures of inland Portugal.
When we reach the junction, we must leave the N233 by turning right to join a road with no official designation, identified in A Rota 18 as an indeterminate road.
End of section
Section 5: Indeterminada - Sobrainho dos Gaios (9.9 Km)
We leave the undetermined road behind and continue along another small secondary route that leads into one of the quietest areas of Beira Baixa. The surface remains good, and the narrow, very lightly trafficked road links gentle bends with small changes in elevation that make the ride especially enjoyable.
The route crosses a landscape of pine woods, holm oak groves and Mediterranean scrub, alternating between small clearings and denser woodland. Along the way we will also cross several streams flowing down toward the Ocreza River, shaping a gently rolling terrain that adds variety to the ride.
Soon after, we will pass through Sobrainho da Ribeira, a small traditional village surrounded by nature, before continuing between forests and farmland. The near-total lack of traffic allows us to fully enjoy the silence and the feeling of isolation that defines this part of inland Portugal.
The last kilometers will take us to Sobrainho dos Gaios, another small rural locality situated very close to the International Tagus Natural Park, whose natural surroundings will continue to accompany us for much of the day.
End of section
Section 6: Sobrainho dos Gaios - Fómeas (9.8 Km)
From Sobrainho dos Gaios we take the M1309 to head into a noticeably more mountainous stretch. The road is narrow, the surface remains in good condition, and the bends begin almost from the very first moment, following the rolling terrain among pine woods, eucalyptus trees and slopes covered in scrub.
The route heads toward Frega along a very enjoyable road, with small changes in gradient and medium-radius bends that demand attention without ever becoming challenging. Traffic is almost nonexistent, and the silence of the surroundings heightens the feeling of riding through one of the most remote areas of the municipality of Proença-a-Nova.
After passing through Frega, the M1309 continues toward Herdade. At this point the road takes center stage even more, tracing several tight turns as it climbs and drops between gentle hills. From some clearings in the forest, good views open out over the valleys and the scattered villages of the region.
We leave Herdade behind to tackle the twistiest part of the stretch. The road winds on and on through Mediterranean vegetation and small ravines, linking bends at a very natural rhythm for the motorcycle. It is one of those rides where the journey is more fun than fast, inviting you to enjoy every change of direction.
Farther on we begin the descent toward Alvito da Beira, a small village surrounded by mountains and vegetation. It is worth taking a moment to notice its traditional houses and the Igreja Matriz de Alvito da Beira, the town's main heritage landmark.
The road then continues toward Fómeas, keeping its narrow, winding layout until it reaches the settlement where the next stretch begins.
End of section
Section 7: Fómeas - N-351 (3 Km)
This short stretch begins in Fómeas and follows the M1308, a secondary road that immediately climbs the mountainside. Although it is barely over three kilometers long, it offers a fine succession of linked bends that invite you to enjoy the ride from the very first meter.
The road surface is in good condition and the route quickly gains altitude between slopes covered with scrub, pines and eucalyptus. As we climb, interesting views open up over the valleys crossed in the previous stretch and the mountains around Proença-a-Nova.
The central section is the most enjoyable, with several hairpin bends and changes of direction that make the bike work, although always with good visibility and virtually no traffic.
Shortly before the end of the stretch we will reach a signposted junction toward Sobral Fernando and Oleiros. We must turn left to join the N351, where the next stretch will begin.
End of section
Section 8: N-351 - Indeterminada (4.1 Km)
This section runs entirely along the N351, a mountain road with excellent pavement that continues to offer a very enjoyable ride. Although it is barely over four kilometers long, it keeps a broad and very smooth layout, with perfectly linked medium-radius bends that let you enjoy the route with complete confidence.
The road crosses a completely wooded area, dominated by pine forests and eucalyptus trees that cover the mountain slopes. As we move on, small changes in gradient and several natural viewpoints follow one another, offering wide views over the valleys of the Beira Baixa.
Traffic is usually very light and the good width of the roadway invites you to keep a steady pace, turning this short stretch into a pleasant connection between two of the most mountainous areas of the stage.
In the last few meters we will reach an important, clearly signposted junction. The directional sign points to the continuation toward Proença-a-Nova, while another turn-off allows access to the small village of Vale da Ursa, a familiar reference for those traveling through this inland area of the Beira Baixa.
We will leave the N351 at that junction, turning right to join an unnumbered road, where the next section will begin.
End of section
Section 9: Indeterminada - Vale Ursa (2.6 Km)
We leave the main road and join a narrow, unnamed lane that takes us toward Vale da Ursa. From the very first meters, the landscape changes completely: the open sweep of the N351 disappears, and we begin riding along a much more intimate road, surrounded by pine groves, olive trees, and slopes covered in Mediterranean vegetation.
The route crosses a small bridge before taking on a succession of very tight bends and changes of direction that force us to slow our pace. The pavement remains in good condition, although the roadway is much narrower, so it is worth enjoying this stretch at an easy rhythm as we climb between the gentle hills that surround the village.
From several points along the route, there are wide views over the valley and the surrounding mountains. If we look up toward the summits, we can spot a wind farm, whose turbines stand out against the horizon and serve as a visual reference for much of the ascent.
The road continues to snake between olive groves and small patches of woodland until it reaches the first houses of Vale da Ursa, a small village in the municipality of Proença-a-Nova that preserves the calm, traditional atmosphere typical of the interior of Beira Baixa.
End of section
Section 10: Vale Ursa - Indeterminada (0.8 Km)
We pass through the last houses of Vale da Ursa along the narrow M1322, a local road that is barely over eight hundred metres long yet still preserves the village’s quiet, rural character. We ride past scattered homes, small vegetable plots and gardens before leaving the built-up area behind for good.
Soon the tarmac slips back in among pine woods and Mediterranean vegetation. The road remains narrow, although the surface is in good condition and makes for a short but enjoyable stretch with gentle bends and slight changes in elevation.
There is hardly any traffic on this section, which reinforces the feeling of travelling along little-used secondary roads in the interior of Portugal. The scenery alternates between small farms, eucalyptus trees and pines, with clearings from which you can make out the undulating terrain we will follow over the next few kilometres.
At the end of the stretch we will reach a junction where we must turn right to join another unnamed road and continue our route.
End of section
Section 11: Indeterminada - M529-2 (4.1 Km)
We leave the road without a designation to continue along another narrow local road that winds between pine forests and vegetation-covered slopes. The asphalt remains in good condition, although the roadway barely allows two vehicles to pass comfortably, so it is wise to keep a calm pace and pay attention on blind bends.
For much of the route, the road gently snakes through a completely wooded landscape. On both sides, vast stands of pine and eucalyptus appear, while between the clearings beautiful views open up toward the mountain ranges that dominate this part of inland Portugal. It is a very pleasant stretch to enjoy relaxed riding and the silence of the surroundings.
The bends follow one another without excessive difficulty, alternating small descents and false flats that make the ride entertaining. Traffic is usually practically nonexistent, and the feeling of isolation increases as we move farther away from the last houses.
As we approach the end of the stretch, a small junction appears; we will turn left to continue the route on M529-2.
End of section
Section 12: M529-2 - Proença a Nova (8.9 Km)
The M529-2 welcomes us with one of the most enjoyable stretches of this stage. The road climbs and descends along the slopes of the mountain range, linking bends of every radius, always on well-maintained asphalt and with enough width to enjoy smooth riding.
The surroundings are once again dominated by pine forests, eucalyptus and scrubland, although in several spots the vegetation opens up, revealing beautiful views over the valleys that surround Ribeira da Isna. It is a very lightly traveled road, ideal for savoring each bend without haste and enjoying the landscape of inland Portugal.
As we approach Sarzedinha, the route becomes gentler and a few scattered houses appear once more. Shortly after, the road begins to take on a more urban character, announcing the proximity of Proença-a-Nova, one of the main settlements in this region.
The entrance into town is easy and well signposted, with a wider roadway and slightly heavier traffic. Proença-a-Nova has a pleasant town center where it is worth stopping for a few minutes to stroll through its streets, have a coffee or visit the Centro Ciência Viva da Floresta, an interactive space dedicated to the forest and the natural environment, closely tied to the identity of this region.
The stretch ends upon reaching Proença-a-Nova, where we will turn right to continue on the N241.
End of section
Section 13: Proença a Nova - M536 (3.4 Km)
We leave Proença-a-Nova behind for a short stretch along the N241. Leaving the town takes us along a broad, well-paved avenue, with lighting, sidewalks, and somewhat heavier traffic than in the previous kilometers.
Soon we leave the urban area and the road returns to a much calmer atmosphere. The landscape once again is dominated by pine forests and gentle, vegetation-covered hills, while the traffic almost disappears completely. Although the section is short, it is pleasant and serves as a transition between the urban surroundings and the secondary roads that await us next.
On this stretch it is worth knowing that, very close by, there is the Miradouro da Serra das Talhadas, one of the best-known natural viewpoints in the municipality. From there, you get excellent views over the forest landscape surrounding Proença-a-Nova and over much of the territory we are crossing in this stage.
At the end of the stretch we will come to a junction where we must continue straight ahead to join the M536, beginning the next stretch of the route.
End of section
Section 14: M536 - Chaveira (6.8 Km)
We continue along the M536, a secondary road that keeps up the excellent riding standard of the last few kilometres. The route combines long linked bends with small changes in elevation, always surrounded by the pinewoods, eucalyptus trees and scrubland typical of this part of central Portugal.
The road climbs gently between vegetation-covered slopes, occasionally offering lovely views over the nearby valleys. The surface is in very good condition and the width of the carriageway makes for comfortable, smooth riding, with virtually no traffic at all.
Along the way we pass through small rural settlements such as Cimo do Vale and Alvito, where a few scattered houses briefly break up the dominance of the forest landscape. These are quiet villages, set in an environment where life seems to go by unhurriedly.
Near Chaveira, it is worth paying attention to the traditional agricultural landscape surrounding the town, made up of small plots, olive groves and patches of Mediterranean woodland. Very close by is also the Praia Fluvial da Fróia, one of the best-known river beaches in the region, an excellent place to cool off during the summer months or take a break by the water.
The section ends on reaching Chaveira, where we will turn right towards Chaveininha .
End of section
Section 15: Chaveira - N244 (8.8 Km)
We leave Chaveira via the M1263, a quiet local road that crosses a typically Beirã landscape, where small farms, olive groves, and gentle hills covered with pines and eucalyptus trees alternate. The asphalt is in good condition and the roadway, of medium width, makes for relaxed and very smooth riding.
The route links long straight sections with wide, well-radius bends, passing through small villages such as Casal de São Bento, Dos Codos, and Cimo de Valongo. These are small rural settlements, with traditional houses and a very peaceful atmosphere that perfectly reflects life in the interior of Portugal.
As we progress, the landscape occasionally opens up, revealing fields, small farms, and gentle hills, while the road keeps an enjoyable layout that invites you to take in the surroundings without rushing. Traffic remains sparse, which is typical in this part of the route.
Very close to the route is the Praia Fluvial da Aldeia Ruiva, a pleasant bathing area beside the riverbank, especially appreciated in summer by the people of the region. It is one of those small river beaches that are part of the identity of central Portugal and are always worth keeping in mind if the weather is kind.
The section ends when we reach the junction with the N244, where we join this national road and begin the next stretch of the route.
End of section
Section 16: N244 - N2 (10 Km)
We join the N244, one of the national roads that form the backbone of this region in central Portugal. Although its category is higher than the local roads we have ridden so far, traffic remains very light and its layout is especially enjoyable to ride on a motorcycle.
The road winds between gentle hills covered with pine forests, eucalyptus trees and scrubland, linking broad bends with small changes in gradient over an asphalt surface in excellent condition. In places it passes through narrow cuts carved between rocky outcrops, adding variety to the landscape and making the ride even more appealing.
As we continue, small villages such as Panesco and Vale da Cortiçada appear, where the road runs through a rural setting made up of scattered houses and small agricultural holdings. These are quiet settlements that preserve the traditional character of this part of inland Portugal.
Very close to the route is the Miradouro de São Macário, an excellent natural balcony from which sweeping views are obtained over the mountains and valleys of the area. If you have time, it is well worth taking a short detour to enjoy one of the most representative panoramas in this region.
The stretch ends when we reach the junction with the historic N2. At the intersection we must turn left to join this legendary Portuguese road and continue our journey south.
End of section
Section 17: N2 - Cumeada (1 Km)
After joining the legendary N2, we will travel barely a kilometer along one of Portugal’s most emblematic roads. Known for linking the north and south of the country over more than 700 kilometers,.
This short stretch passes through the outskirts of Cumeada, where the presence of a few businesses and houses signals a somewhat more inhabited setting than the kilometers before it. The asphalt remains in perfect condition and traffic continues to flow smoothly, allowing you to enjoy the ride with ease.
Although we only share a few moments with the N2, it is worth savoring the experience. For many two-wheel enthusiasts, it is a benchmark road, comparable to the American Route 66, and riding even a small stretch of it is part of the experience of traveling through the interior of Portugal.
At the end of the ride we will leave the N2 by turning right to enter Cumeada, where we will continue on local roads in search of the next section of the route.
End of section
Section 18: Cumeada - Palhais (9 Km)
We are now riding along the M534-1, a local road that immediately brings back the peaceful, rural atmosphere that defines this stage. The asphalt is in good condition and the roadway, of medium width, links gentle bends with short straights through a landscape dominated by pine groves, olive trees and cultivated fields.
The route passes through several small villages, such as Casal da Fontana, Castanheiro Grande, Valongo and Palhais, where the road runs alongside traditional houses, small kitchen gardens and old stone buildings that preserve the authentic character of inland Portugal.
Outside the inhabited areas, silence once again prevails. The gentle undulations of the terrain and the light traffic make this stretch a relaxed ride, perfect for enjoying the scenery unhurriedly as the road winds between patches of Mediterranean woodland and small agricultural holdings.
Very close to the route lies the Ribeira da Isna, a small watercourse that gives its name to the valley and helps keep this area green. In spring, the road edges are often filled with wildflowers, adding even more colour to the landscape.
The stretch ends on reaching Palhais, where we will continue the route after having already covered 122 km of this inland stage.
End of section
Section 19: Palhais - Roda de Estrada (6 Km)
We continue along the M534, one of the most appealing roads on this stage. The roadway, narrow but in good condition, twists along the slopes of a deep valley, offering a very entertaining ride, with continuous bends, changes in elevation and virtually no traffic. It is a stretch to enjoy the ride without taking your eyes off the scenery.
For several kilometres, the road follows the course of the Isna River, which appears again and again beside the asphalt, forming small dams and calm sheets of water that break up the dominance of the forest. The natural viewpoints offered by some of the bends allow you to take in the valley covered with pine and eucalyptus woods, one of the most beautiful landscapes of the day.
The route passes by small rural settlements such as Quinta, Porto Carto and Roda de Estrada, where a few scattered houses remind us that we are still crossing one of the least populated areas of central Portugal. The atmosphere remains peaceful and very authentic.
This section is part of the Isna River basin, whose waters feed several reservoirs in the region. In the photographs, one of these still pools can be seen, a particularly pleasant spot that provides a lovely contrast between the blue of the water and the green of the slopes.
The stretch ends as you enter Roda de Estrada, where we will continue the route by joining a national road once again.
End of section
Section 20: Roda de Estrada - Vale Serrao (10 Km)
We leave Roda de Estrada on the N238, a road with a good surface that soon plunges back into a completely natural setting. For the first few kilometers, the road runs through extensive pine and eucalyptus forests, linking wide, flowing bends that invite you to keep a lively pace with barely any traffic to contend with.
The road winds along the valley slopes as small descents and climbs follow one another. The landscape becomes increasingly mountainous and, as we continue, magnificent panoramic views begin to open up over the waters of the Castelo de Bode reservoir, one of the largest reservoirs in Portugal and one of the great highlights of this stage.
In the final stretch of the route, the N238 runs very close to the shore, allowing you to enjoy spectacular views over the reservoir. The contrast between the blue water, the mountains covered in forest, and the sinuous road makes this stretch one of the most appealing for any motorcyclist.
The route crosses one of the reservoir’s arms over a long bridge that offers a magnificent perspective of the landscape. It is well worth easing off the throttle a little to take in this spot, especially on clear days, when the waters reflect the surrounding slopes.
The section ends in Vale Serrão, where we will continue the route by heading onto an unnamed road.
End of section
Section 21: Vale Serrao - M520 (12 Km)
We leave Vale Serrão behind and continue along a local road that, for several kilometres, runs beside the spectacular Castelo de Bode reservoir. The tarmac is in good condition and the route strings together a steady flow of bends, following the contour of the land and offering a very enjoyable ride with virtually no traffic.
The views over the reservoir are constant. In some stretches the road runs very close to the water, while in others it gains a little height, allowing us to take in the succession of inlets and peninsulas that define this vast artificial lake. It is one of those places where it is hard not to stop for a few minutes and enjoy the scenery.
Little by little we leave the riverbank behind and approach the first houses of Castanheira de Pera. The surroundings change gradually: the woods give way to small residential areas and scattered developments before entering the town.
Castanheira de Pera is a town known for its close connection with water and nature. Very nearby is the popular Praia Fluvial do Poço Corga, one of the best-known river beaches in central Portugal, a place that is very busy in summer and an excellent option for a break if you have the time.
After 150 km we reach a T-junction where we turn right.
End of section
Section 22: M520 - Cabaços (2 Km)
We continue along the M520, covering the last kilometers of Castanheira de Pera. The road remains in impeccable condition and offers a broad, comfortable layout, leaving the town center behind as it heads toward the small villages on the outskirts.
On this short stretch, the landscape changes quickly. The last houses give way to a much more open setting, where pine forests and the gentle hills typical of this region appear once again. Traffic is light and we will hardly come across any vehicles.
A curious detail of this section is passing beneath the A13, the motorway that connects this part of central Portugal with Coimbra and the south of the country. While we keep enjoying a secondary road that is much more pleasant for motorcycle travel, the large infrastructure blends seamlessly into the landscape.
After barely a couple of kilometers, we reach Cabaços, a small locality on the outskirts of Castanheira de Pera, where we will continue the route following the N356.
End of section
Section 23: Cabaços - Freixianda (14 Km)
We leave Cabaços on the N356, a national road with excellent pavement that winds through a succession of small villages and farming areas. The layout alternates long straights with gentle bends, allowing for relaxed riding while the landscape gradually changes around us.
The route links small localities such as Venda do Preto, Sobrachão, Zambujal, Carrasqueira and Feteiras, all surrounded by pine groves, cultivated fields and scattered homes that preserve the rural character of this region in central Portugal.
Although the road feels much more open than the mountain stretches ridden earlier, it still offers a very pleasant setting for motorcycling. The gentle undulations of the terrain let us enjoy wide views over the nearby hills, while traffic remains very sparse.
Near Feteiras, several perfectly signposted junctions appear toward other small населations in the area, reflecting the dense network of local roads that connects all these villages. It is a fine example of how the route avoids the main roads to discover the most authentic Portugal.
The stretch ends as we reach Freixianda, a quiet village belonging to the municipality of Ourém, where we continue the route by heading onto new roads in the Portuguese interior.
End of section
Section 24: Freixianda - Farrio (5 Km)
We leave Freixianda on the M502, a local road with a good surface that runs through a string of small villages surrounded by orchards, meadows and groves. The route is calm, with very gentle bends and little traffic, perfect for soaking up the rural atmosphere of this part of the municipality of Ourém.
Along the way we pass through places such as São Miguel, Besteiros and Camarões, where traditional houses, small cultivated fields and livestock farms dominate the scene. It is a short stretch, but a very representative one of inland Portugal, where life remains closely tied to the countryside.
The images show precisely that transition between village streets and open spaces. It is not uncommon to come across grasslands with cattle grazing beside the road, a detail that adds even more authenticity to the ride and reminds us of the importance of farming and livestock activity in the area.
The road keeps a comfortable, relaxed line, linking the different settlements without difficulty and offering a pleasant ride before taking on the next kilometres of the stage.
The stretch ends in Farrio, where we continue the route on the next local road.
End of section
Section 25: Farrio - Casal de Amieira (10 Km)
From Farrio we take a local road that maintains the excellent surface quality of the last few kilometres and crosses a typically rural landscape. The route links gentle bends between pine groves, eucalyptus trees, olive groves and small agricultural holdings, constantly alternating wooded stretches with tiny hamlets.
The route passes through settlements such as Louriço, Casal dos Bernardos, Vales, Outeiro, Valongo da Pedreneira and Pousia, where traditional houses, small kitchen gardens and the calm of Portugal’s interior predominate. It is a very pleasant stretch to ride at an unhurried pace, enjoying the scenery and the light traffic.
The layout is varied and engaging, with constant changes of direction but without major gradients. The road adapts to the terrain by linking medium-radius bends that allow a smooth pace while the surroundings alternate between woodland and small cultivated areas.
Along the way we also cross the railway line of the Ramal de Alfarelos, one of the rail links that connect this region with the main Portuguese network, a small detail that briefly breaks the completely rural character of the ride.
The section ends as we arrive at Casal da Amieira, where we will continue our route along the local roads of the municipality of Ourém.
End of section
Section 26: Casal de Amieira - Resouro (2 Km)
This short stretch runs entirely along M1012, crossing the town of Resouro. The road has a good surface and a comfortable layout, with long straights and gentle bends that let you ride through the town at an easy pace.
Throughout the whole route, we ride along the streets of Resouro, with single-family homes, small businesses, industrial estate warehouses and other buildings typical of an inland Portuguese residential town on both sides. It is a completely urban stretch, although traffic is usually very smooth.
Although it is barely more than two kilometers long, this route acts as a transition between the rural roads of the previous stretches and those waiting for us next, while always keeping the relaxed atmosphere that defines this stage.
The stretch ends when we reach Resouro, where we will continue the route on one of those unnamed roads.
End of section
Section 27: Resouro - Espite (4 Km)
We leave Resouro on a local road that quickly brings back the rural atmosphere. The pavement is in good condition, and the route links gentle bends between pine groves and low hills, offering a relaxed and very pleasant ride.
Along the way we pass through small settlements such as Vale da Mata, Casais Monizes and Rua dos Arios, where traditional houses alternate with cultivated areas and woodland plots. It is a landscape that is very typical of this region, where the road quietly links one village with the next.
In some stretches, hillside areas can still be seen bearing the marks of old forest fires, something relatively common in this part of central Portugal. Little by little, the vegetation is taking back ground and the forest is regaining its leading role.
The last few kilometres bring us closer to Espite, a small town with quiet streets and houses of traditional architecture. The road passes through the urban area without difficulty, with traffic remaining very light throughout.
End of section
Section 28: Espite - Memória (3 Km)
We leave Espite via the N349, a wide, well-paved road that crosses a landscape of pine woods and gentle hills. Traffic is usually light, which makes for relaxed riding as the road traces broad bends and slight changes in elevation.
For much of the route, the scenery is distinctly wooded, with stands of pines alternating with small clearings and the occasional scattered house. It is a short but enjoyable stretch, ideal for keeping a steady pace as you head toward the next village.
With almost half of the stage covered, Memória, where we will leave the N349 and continue on the N350..
End of section
Section 29: Memória - Lagoa de Pedra (3 Km)
We leave Memória to join the N350, a secondary road with a good surface that crosses a quiet setting of pine woods and gentle hills. Traffic is practically nonexistent, and the width of the roadway allows for relaxed riding, linking broad, well-designed bends.
The route runs between small wooded areas and open stretches where the landscape reveals the undulations of the land. The road keeps a very pleasant layout, alternating slight climbs and descents with medium-radius curves that invite you to maintain a smooth pace with hardly any interruptions.
As we draw closer to Lagoa de Pedra, a few scattered houses appear once again and the surroundings become slightly more inhabited. The N350 remains a comfortable and well-maintained road, ideal for enjoying the scenery as we approach the next settlement.
The section ends on reaching Lagoa de Pedra, where we will continue the route along the same road toward the next part of the journey.
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Section 30: Lagoa de Pedra - Caranguejeira (5 Km)
We leave Lagoa de Pedra via the N357, a national road with a good surface that soon slips into a landscape dominated by pine forest. The route combines long straights with gentle bends, allowing for a comfortable, steady ride as the scenery opens out between vast forested areas.
For much of the way, we cross an area where the hillside still bears the traces of old fires. The blackened trunks stand in contrast to the first shoots of vegetation beginning to reclaim the ground, offering an image that recalls nature’s ability to be reborn as time goes by.
As we approach Caranguejeira, the woodland gradually gives way to the first scattered houses and to an increasingly urban setting. The road keeps a pleasant, wide layout right up to the entrance to the town, where it is wise to ease off the throttle and pay attention to local traffic.
The section ends in Caranguejeira, from where we will continue the route toward the next stretch of the journey.
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Section 31: Caranguejeira - LEIRIA (14 Km)
We leave Caranguejeira via the N350 heading դեպի Leiria. The road keeps an excellent surface and a very smooth layout, alternating small urban stretches with open spaces and gentle hills. As we draw closer to the district capital, traffic gradually increases and roundabouts, junctions, and city access avenues begin to appear.
With a little over 200 kilometers covered, we reach practically the halfway point of this stage. It is a good time to take a break and regain strength, as Leiria offers a wide range of restaurants, cafés, and all the necessary services before tackling the second part of the day.
The city is also well worth a leisurely visit. Its main landmark is the Castillo de Leiria, an imposing medieval fortress that dominates the town from the top of the hill and offers magnificent views over the Lis river valley. At its foot lies a pleasant historic center with shopping streets, squares, churches, and numerous corners where you can stop for a few minutes. It is also worth going to the Jardín Luís de Camões or strolling along the river, one of the liveliest areas in the city.
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Section 32: LEIRIA - Marinha Grande (11 Km)
We leave Leiria behind on the N242, a wide, well-maintained road that lets us quickly leave the city. During the first few kilometres we cross the peri-urban area, alternating roundabouts and junctions with stretches of dual carriageway before the traffic gradually thins out and the scenery regains a much more natural feel.
The road crosses an extensive forest area belonging to the historic Pinhal de Leiria, one of the most emblematic forests in Portugal. This immense pine forest was ordered to be planted by King Dom Dinis at the end of the 13th century to protect the coastal dunes and, centuries later, supplied much of the timber used to build the caravels of the Portuguese Discoveries. Riding through these pine woods means travelling through a place of enormous historical importance for the country.
The route is comfortable and very smooth, with long straights and sweeping bends that let you enjoy relaxed riding. The excellent condition of the surface and the low level of difficulty make this stretch a pleasant link between the two cities.
The stretch ends in Marinha Grande, known internationally for its tradition in the glass industry. If you have time, it is worth visiting the Glass Museum, located in Stephens Palace, where the history of an activity that has shaped the city’s economic and cultural development since the 18th century is explained.
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Section 33: Marinha Grande - Sao Pedro de Moel (8 Km)
We leave Marinha Grande behind and take the N242-2, a road that crosses the vast Pinhal de Leiria heading toward the Atlantic Ocean. The surface is excellent, and the route combines long straights with gentle bends, making for a relaxed ride among endless pine forests that accompany almost the entire journey.
Little by little, the air begins to take on the scent of the sea, and the landscape hints at the coast drawing near. After leaving the forest, São Pedro de Moel appears, one of the most charming coastal towns in central Portugal, set on a spectacular stretch of cliffs facing the Atlantic.
One of the main landmarks here is the Farol de Penedo da Saudade, an elegant lighthouse inaugurated in 1912 that stands atop the cliffs, offering one of the most spectacular views on the entire Portuguese coast. From its surroundings, you can watch the waves crashing against the rocks, a wild landscape that invites you to stop the bike for a few minutes and enjoy the views.
If the weather is kind, it is well worth heading over to the lookout beside the lighthouse or strolling along the coast before continuing the route. São Pedro de Moel is one of those places that, on its own, makes the coastal detour worthwhile.
The stage ends in São Pedro de Moel, where the route will continue following the Atlantic coastline southward.
End of section
Section 34: Sao Pedro de Moel - M573 (61 Km)
We leave São Pedro de Moel behind to ride one of the most spectacular stretches of the entire day. For the first few kilometers, the road runs very close to the Atlantic Ocean, alternating gentle bends with long straights that let us enjoy the coastal scenery without pause. The surface is excellent and the ride is very pleasant.
The route passes some of the best-known spots on Portugal’s central coast. Near Paredes da Vitória, it is well worth stopping for a few minutes to take in the wide beach and the cliffs that surround it. Soon after, we arrive in Nazaré, one of the country’s most famous fishing villages, known worldwide for the gigantic waves of the Nazaré Canyon, capable of exceeding thirty meters in height and a regular stage for world surfing records.
Before leaving the coast, it is highly recommended to go over to the Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo, perched on the promontory that overlooks the submarine canyon. From this historic fort, you get extraordinary views of the ocean, the red lighthouse crowning the cliff, and Nazaré’s immense beach. It is one of those places any traveler remembers long after passing through it.
After leaving Nazaré behind, the route continues southward, alternating small coastal settlements, agricultural areas, and vast pine forests. The road keeps a very smooth rhythm, with broad bends and little traffic, allowing us to fully enjoy the ride as we gradually move away from the coastline.
With almost 300 kilometers traveled, we are now facing the final quarter of the stage. The section ends at the junction with the M573, where we will turn right to continue the route inland.
End of section
Section 35: M573 - M603 (4 Km)
We take the M573 to leave the coast behind and head back into an area dominated by pine woods and Atlantic vegetation. The road is narrow, has a good surface and is very pleasant to ride, linking gentle bends as it runs for a few kilometres alongside the water of the Lagoa de Óbidos, one of the largest coastal lagoons in Portugal.
The scenery alternates between small wooded areas and clearings with lovely views over the lagoon. The light traffic and the pleasant layout make this short stretch a very enjoyable link to savor on the bike before heading inland again.
After leaving the lagoon area, the road climbs gently through pine woods until it reaches a large roundabout that channels traffic in different directions.
The section ends at a five-exit roundabout. We must take the fourth exit to join the M603 and continue the route.
End of section
Section 36: M603 - Indeterminada (4 Km)
From the roundabout we join the M603, a secondary road that brings us back closer to the coast. The road surface is in very good condition, and the layout combines sweeping bends with gentle changes in elevation, crossing a landscape of pinewoods and Atlantic scrub where traffic is usually very light.
With the 300 kilometers already behind us, we tackle the final stretch of this long stage. The road offers relaxed and very enjoyable riding, allowing us to take in the surroundings before returning once again to the ocean.
In the last few kilometers, the first houses of the coast appear, and as we crest a small rise, the views open up again toward the Atlantic. The blue of the sea reappears on the horizon as we descend toward a quiet residential area set beside the cliffs, a magnificent preview of the landscapes that still await us.
The stretch ends at a junction with an unnamed road, from where we will continue the route following the Portuguese coast.
End of section
Section 37: Indeterminada - Geraldes (24 Km)
This section begins by leaving the small coastal residential area and heading north along secondary roads that alternate gentle bends and long straights. The Atlantic Ocean stays very close for the first few kilometres and, from time to time, comes back into view between the dunes and the coastal vegetation, offering pleasant panoramas over the coast.
The route passes through the locality of Baleal, one of the best-known places on the Portuguese coast. This small peninsula is a true paradise for surf enthusiasts thanks to its broad beaches and the constant power of the Atlantic. If you have time, it is worth going out to the tip of the headland to take in the cliffs and the views over the ocean.
We continue inland, crossing small villages and residential areas until we reach Ferrel, where the curious horse sculpture that welcomes visitors to the town stands out. From here the road widens and quickly leads us toward the urban surroundings of Peniche.
The last kilometres run along wider avenues with heavier traffic, although they still offer a comfortable, smooth ride. Little by little we move away from the coastal atmosphere to finish this long section in Geraldes, after covering 324 kilómetros since the start of the stage.
The section ends upon reaching Geraldes, where we will join the next road to continue the route.
End of section
Section 38: Geraldes - Seixal (6 Km)
We leave Geraldes on the N247 to tackle a short, comfortable and very fast stretch. The road has a good surface, two wide lanes and an almost straight layout, allowing us to keep a relaxed riding pace as we pass through a broad agricultural area dotted with small farms and scattered houses.
The scenery changes compared with the previous miles by the sea. Here open fields dominate, with wide horizons and very few bends, making this stretch a pleasant link before returning to more winding roads.
Along the way we pass by small settlements such as Casal do Alto, Casal da Murta and Casal de Vale de Adares, where the road continues to be the main feature, with no complications or significant junctions.
After completing 330 kilometers from the start of the stage, we reach Seixal, bringing this short stretch to an end.
End of section
Section 39: Seixal - Casais de Santa Bárbara (7 Km)
We leave Seixal behind and continue along a secondary road that runs very close to the Atlantic coast. The pavement remains excellent, and the road, of medium width, links a succession of small coastal towns through a comfortable and pleasant ride, ideal for enjoying unhurried motorcycling.
The route crosses the villages of Areia Branca, Casais do Perasque, Casaleiros, Valmitão and Atalaia, where short urban stretches alternate with open areas among cultivated fields and scattered houses. Traffic is usually light, and the atmosphere retains the calm character of this Portuguese coastal strip.
For several kilometers the ocean stays very close on our right, although at times it is hidden behind the dunes and buildings. Even so, the sea breeze and the coastal scenery accompany us for practically the entire journey.
The stretch ends in Casais de Santa Bárbara, where we will connect with the next route to continue heading south along the Atlantic line.
End of section
Section 40: Casais de Santa Bárbara - Maceira (4 Km)
We continue along the M625, a well-surfaced secondary road that keeps a simple, flowing layout as it links the small towns on Portugal’s western coast. It is a short stretch, ideal for enjoying a relaxed ride, alternating gentle straights with broad bends between residential areas and farmland.
The route passes through the settlements of Casais de Santa Bárbara, Casal da Fonte, Ramalhal, Casal Moinho do Bom y Forte, always very close to the Atlantic coast. Although the sea is hardly visible from the road, its proximity is felt in the atmosphere and in the scenery, where low buildings blend with agricultural land and small farms.
Traffic is usually light and the road encourages you to keep an easy pace as we approach Maceira, a town known for its industrial tradition and for being very close to the beaches of Santa Rita and Porto Novo.
End of section
Section 41: Maceira - Póvoa de Penafirme (7 Km)
We leave Maceira behind and continue along the M651-1, a pleasant secondary road that once again brings us closer to the Atlantic Ocean. The route is straightforward and the surface is in very good condition, making for relaxed riding among small coastal developments, residential areas and open fields.
Very soon we pass by Praia de Santa Rita, one of the best-known beaches in this part of the Portuguese coast. If the weather is kind, it is worth stopping for a few minutes to take in the Atlantic or simply enjoy the seaside atmosphere that defines this area.
The road continues along the coastline as we pass through places such as Santa Rita and Orjariça. The landscape alternates between low houses, small tourist accommodations and stretches where the sea’s proximity is felt in the breeze and the characteristic coastal vegetation.
As we approach Póvoa de Penafirme, traffic increases slightly due to the presence of several residential developments and beach access roads, although the ride remains easy and trouble-free.
This section ends in Póvoa de Penafirme, where we will connect with the next section to continue discovering the Portuguese coastline.
End of section
Section 42: Póvoa de Penafirme - Silveira (4 Km)
The N247 now carries us through one of the liveliest stretches of Portugal’s west coast. The road still offers excellent pavement and a very straightforward layout, crossing a succession of towns and villages where residents, surfers, and numerous visitors drawn by the beaches of this region all come together.
Along the way we pass Santa Cruz, one of the coastal towns with the most atmosphere in the region. Its wide beaches, seafront promenade, and selection of restaurants and cafés make it an excellent place to stop, especially during the summer months.
As we continue south, we leave behind several housing developments and commercial areas. Traffic can be somewhat heavier than on the previous sections, although the width of the roadway allows for a comfortable and smooth ride.
With more than 350 kilometres covered, we are beginning the final stretch of this long stage. Most of the route is now behind us, and the Atlantic continues to keep us company very closely.
The route ends in Silveira, a coastal town known for its beaches and for being one of the most popular holiday destinations in the municipality of Torres Vedras, from where we will continue our journey south.
End of section
Section 43: Silveira - IC30 (40 Km)
The road continues along the Portuguese coast on the N247, alternating small towns with long open stretches where the Atlantic is never too far away. The surface is in good condition and the road is relatively wide, making for smooth riding, with broad curves and a relaxed pace.
As we go on, the landscape combines farmland, gentle hills and scattered residential areas, while the sea breeze accompanies much of the route. In some stretches the scent of salt comes through clearly and, when the traffic eases, the murmur of the ocean can be heard just a few metres from the road, reminding us that we are travelling one of Portugal’s most attractive coastlines.
The route passes through places such as Santa Cruz and continues alongside the beaches of Santa Rita and Porto Novo, two stretches of sand highly prized by surfers and by those looking to enjoy the ocean in a much quieter atmosphere than at other tourist destinations. The road invites you to ride unhurriedly, taking in the contrast between the blue of the sea and the green of the interior.
The final kilometres unfold between small residential developments and open fields until reaching Baleia, where this long coastal stretch comes to an end.
End of section
Section 44: IC30 - Lisboa (30 Km)
The stage ends here. Now it’s time to swap the helmet for the calm of a well-earned rest. Enter the accommodation you have chosen into your mobile or GPS and follow its directions. In a few minutes you will arrive at your destination, where the well-deserved end of an intense day of roads, landscapes, and experiences awaits you.
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