Section 1: - N115-1 (21.5 Km)

The stage begins by leaving the heart of Lisbon behind and following the course of the Tagus River along the IC2 heading north. During these first kilometres, the ride is easy and smooth, tracing a broad urban avenue where traffic is usually the main character. The road surface is wide and comfortable, letting us move along calmly while the landscape gradually shifts from a more urban setting to increasingly open areas.

On our right, the Tagus accompanies much of the route. The closeness of the water brings a pleasant sense of openness, while the humid breeze softens the air and leaves a faint salty scent drifting in from the vast estuary. The sound of traffic still dominates over the engine, although little by little the city begins to fall behind and the feeling of being on the road becomes more and more evident.

The route runs alongside Parque do Tejo and continues skirting the riverbank, crossing a transition zone where major infrastructure coexists with green spaces and residential neighbourhoods. It is a stretch designed to leave Lisbon gradually, without haste, allowing the urban bustle to fade away while the road carries us toward much calmer landscapes that will appear in the next kilometres.

The stretch ends approximately at kilometre 21.5 of the stage, where we leave the IC2 to join road N115-1. The change takes place at a junction where we must leave the main road and take the signposted slip road toward N115-1, thus beginning the next part of the route.

End of section

Section 2: N115-1 - N115-5 (3 Km)

After leaving the IC2, we join the N115-1, a road that begins to draw us definitely away from Lisbon’s more urban surroundings. The route traces a broad curve along the edge of Santa Iria de Azóia Urban Park, offering a calm, straightforward ride, ideal for leaving behind the capital’s heavy traffic and starting to enjoy the journey at a more relaxed pace.

Over these few kilometres, the road winds gently between residential neighbourhoods and open spaces, keeping a smooth flow and good visibility. The park’s proximity brings a pleasant sense of openness within an environment that is still very urban, while the sound of the city begins to fade into the background as we move away from the Tagus estuary.

This is a short transitional stretch, where the bike gradually finds a more natural rhythm. The broad bends invite you to ride smoothly, without hurry, preparing the ground for the more engaging roads that will appear as the stage progresses. The landscape still retains a distinctly urban character, although with every kilometre we get a little closer to the rural Portugal that will take centre stage for much of the day.

The stretch ends at a junction where we must leave the N115-1 and join the N115-5, continuing the route along this new road toward the next section.

End of section

Section 3: N115-5 - N115 (3.8 Km)

The N115-5 takes us for a few kilometers through an area where industrial estates, small urban settlements and some residential zones coexist. The road keeps an almost straight layout, with broad, gentle bends that allow for a comfortable, relaxed ride. It is a stretch designed to move along without complications, letting the city fade definitively behind us.

The route passes through the surroundings of Parque Industrial do Arneiro and Parque Industrial da Granja. Although the landscape still has a strong urban feel, open spaces are beginning to take center stage and the sense of setting out on a true journey becomes more and more evident. Traffic is usually concentrated at the accesses to the different industrial areas, so it is worth keeping a close eye on merging traffic and intersections.

The road presents almost no technical difficulties and lets us enjoy a steady pace, linking gentle changes of direction over a surface that invites us to ride calmly. Little by little, the noise typical of the outskirts loses intensity and the sound of the engine begins to become the true companion on the road, anticipating the quieter roads we will find as we move away from the Lisbon metropolitan area.

The stretch ends at an intersection where we must turn right.

End of section

Section 4: N115 - Bucelas (4.8 Km)

The N115 continues to take us away from the Lisbon metropolitan area along a much more open route. The road winds ahead in broad bends through open spaces, leaving the A9 motorway to one side and crossing a setting where buildings become increasingly scattered. Riding here is comfortable and smooth, with a surface that invites you to keep a steady pace while the urban feeling fades definitively into the background.

The route hardly features any sudden changes of direction and lets you enjoy a succession of gentle bends that follow the lie of the land. The proximity of the A9 is a reminder that we are still on the outskirts of the Portuguese capital, although the chosen road avoids the main fast roads in favor of a much more pleasant and unhurried itinerary.

As we go on, residential areas are left apart by more open stretches and traffic usually becomes calmer. The sound of traffic loses prominence and the engine starts to set the pace of the journey, offering that pleasant feeling that the adventure has truly begun. It is a short section, but it serves as a transition toward roads that become increasingly interesting for the motorcyclist.

The section ends when we reach the town of Bucelas. At the entrance to the urban area we will find a junction where we must continue following the signs to Bucelas in order to connect with the next section of the route.

End of section

Section 5: Bucelas - M1128 (9 Km)

Once we leave Bucelas behind, the character of the route begins to change completely. The M528 welcomes us with a much narrower and quieter road, where the pace is no longer set by traffic but by the layout itself. The asphalt winds its way between small stone walls, vegetation-covered embankments and farmland, linking gentle bends that invite you to enjoy the ride without rushing. The noise of the city has faded away, and now it is the engine that accompanies the silence of the countryside.

As we move on, small villages such as Adoseiros or Várzea appear, where the road cuts through the built-up area before heading back among hills with gentle slopes. The landscape is dotted with eucalyptus trees, scrub and cultivated areas, while the air feels fresher and cleaner, with that distinctive scent of vegetation that tells us we have definitely left Lisbon’s metropolitan surroundings behind.

The ride is especially enjoyable thanks to a succession of wide, well-linked bends that follow the natural contours of the land. In some stretches, lovely panoramic views open up over the slopes that surround the road, offering a pleasant sense of openness. Bucelas, the starting point of this section, is also a town closely linked to grape growing and famous for its white wines, a detail that helps explain the agricultural character of this entire region.

The section ends as we reach a junction where we must leave the M528 and continue.

End of section

Section 6: M1128 - Carvalha (1.3 Km)

The M1128 begins with a pleasant sequence of curves that follow the contours of the gentle hills in this area. It is a narrow, two-way road with good pavement, inviting you to ride with precision, linking each bend naturally. On both sides, hillsides covered in vegetation and small embankments appear, reinforcing the feeling of having definitely entered the more rural Portugal.

The surroundings convey calm. The air is fresh, carrying the scent of grass and the vegetation that covers the hills, while the silence of the countryside is broken only by the sound of the engine accompanying the road’s gentle sway. Traffic is usually light, allowing you to enjoy every curve at a relaxed, unhurried pace.

In just one kilometer, the road climbs slightly until it reaches the first houses of Carvalha. The small settlement appears discreetly among the undulations of the terrain, maintaining that peaceful, rural atmosphere that characterizes this area. It is a short stretch, but enough to confirm that the route has left the urban environment behind and is starting to offer roads that are much more appealing for the motorcyclist.

End of section

Section 7: Carvalha - Louriceira de Baixo (1.2 Km)

We leave Carvalha behind on a narrow local road that quickly immerses us in a landscape of gentle, vegetation-covered hills. The asphalt, in good condition although fairly narrow, calls for a relaxed pace, linking broad bends that faithfully follow the lay of the land. It is a road made for enjoying the ride at ease, paying attention to every change of direction.

The first curves gift us a beautiful panoramic view of the valley we have just left behind. The road descends gently between scrub, small plots and scattered trees, while the air carries the smell of grass and earth warmed by the sun. There is barely any sound beyond the motorcycle’s engine and the birdsong of the creatures that inhabit these slopes, reinforcing the pleasant feeling of isolation.

Soon after, the first houses of Louriceira de Baixo appear, a small rural settlement perfectly blended into the landscape. The road narrows slightly as it approaches the homes, forcing us to ease off the speed as we cross this peaceful corner of inland Portugal. It is only a few hundred metres, but enough to enjoy the authenticity of these small villages that dot the route.

End of section

Section 8: Louriceira de Baixo - Pontes de Monfalim (3.9 Km)

The road continues winding forward between gentle hills, following a very pleasant line for riding. The narrow but well-kept tarmac links open bends and small changes in gradient that let you enjoy a relaxed pace, always surrounded by a landscape of meadows, crops, and vegetation-covered slopes. As we gain a little height, lovely views open up over the valley, inviting us to lift our gaze from time to time to take in the surroundings.

The route takes us to Sabugos, a small hamlet we ride through along its main street. The white houses, stone walls, and calm of the place convey the essence of rural Portugal. The scent of the vegetation and nearby fields accompanies the ride, while the only sound breaking the silence is the engine echoing between the homes.

Leaving Sabugos, the road begins a gentle descent between agricultural plots and scattered small farms. The bends continue to follow one another naturally until we reach Zambujeiro, another small settlement that preserves the same peaceful atmosphere. From here, you can already sense the proximity of the valley of the Grande River, which adds a touch of freshness to the landscape before tackling the final meters of the section.

The route ends in Pontes de Monfalim, a small locality whose name recalls the bridges that historically made it possible to cross the Grande River.

End of section

Section 9: Pontes de Monfalim - Caĺ§ada (3.5 Km)

After joining the M534, we leave Pontes de Monfalim behind to continue along a secondary road that keeps the pleasant character of the last few kilometres. The road surface is in good condition, and the route alternates gentle straight sections with wide bends that let you ride comfortably through a landscape dominated by small farms, olive groves and Mediterranean vegetation.

The first metres run between the last houses of the town before we once again return to an open, quiet setting. The air smells of the countryside and dry earth, while the sound of the engine blends with the birdsong that fills these gentle hillsides. Traffic is light, which makes it possible to fully enjoy the unhurried pace this road offers.

Shortly afterwards we pass through the small villages of Eira Velha and Fetais dos Pretos, where traditional houses look out onto the road. The route continues climbing very gently until we approach Liberdade, a small settlement where it is advisable to slow down. From here, the views open up again over the rolling landscape that defines this region, offering a pleasant sense of openness.

The stretch ends as we reach Calçada. Before entering the town we find a junction where we turn left towards Freiria and Cadafais.

End of section

Section 10: Caĺ§ada - Lages da Freiria (1.3 Km)

The N115-3 continues to lead us through a landscape of gentle hills and open fields, following a road with a good surface and enough width to enjoy relaxed riding. The route presents hardly any complications, linking long, wide-radius bends that let us keep a steady pace while the horizon opens out over an increasingly broad countryside.

The roadside is lined with meadows, small plots of crops and scattered trees, among them an old olive tree that seems to have spent decades watching travelers pass by. The air still carries that pleasant country scent that has accompanied us since we left the Lisbon area, while the silence is broken only by the steady sound of the engine and the song of the birds flying over these hills.

Gradually, the first houses of Lajes da Freiria appear, a small rural settlement with quiet streets and traditional homes that signal the end of the stage. The road passes through the village smoothly, inviting us to slow down and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that defines these inland Portuguese towns.

The stage ends at an intersection where we must stop at a STOP sign. There, we will turn right following the signs to Rainha.

End of section

Section 11: Lages da Freiria - Indeterminada (23.4 Km)

After leaving Lajes da Freiria, the N115 unfolds one of the first great stretches made for riding pleasure. The road gains continuity and begins to link sweeping bends with long straights, adapting gently to a landscape of rolling hills, vineyards, crops and small groves. The surface is in very good condition and the width of the road allows for a comfortable pace, making every kilometre especially enjoyable on the bike.

During the first few kilometres we pass through small villages such as Palhacana, where the road runs between traditional houses before opening out again into the countryside. The succession of gentle rises and dips offers lovely views over the nearby valleys, while the scent of vegetation and crops accompanies the journey. The sound of the engine echoes softly among the slopes, becoming the only travel companion on a road with very little traffic.

The route continues past vineyards and farming estates that reveal the importance of winemaking in this region. The N115 links fast, well-sighted bends with others that are a little tighter, enough to keep the ride entertaining without ever asking too much of the rider. It is a road that invites you to enjoy the scenery as much as the sheer pleasure of riding.

Along the way we pass through small settlements such as Vila Verde dos Francos, where it is worth noting the parish church that stands at the heart of the town, one of those discreet heritage features that appear frequently in the villages of inland Portugal. The route continues past villages such as Rechaldeira before approaching Casais de Santo André, always maintaining that calm, rural atmosphere that characterises this area.

When we reach approximately seventy-five kilometres into the stage, it is already clear that the journey has definitely left the urban surroundings of Lisbon behind. The landscape is now fully agricultural and the secondary roads begin to show the true character of A Rota 18, alternating charming villages with long stretches where you can enjoy the silence, the nature and a relaxed ride.

The section ends at a junction in the vicinity of Casais de Santo André, where we must leave the N115 by following the signposted turn-off that marks the beginning of the next stage of the route.

End of section

Section 12: Indeterminada - N115-1 (6.8 Km)

The following stretch leaves the N115 behind to head onto a quiet local road that winds between small villages and gentle hills. From the first few meters, the landscape is once again dominated by vineyards, crop fields, and groves of pines and eucalyptus, creating a very pleasant setting for an unhurried ride. The road surface remains in good condition and the road, of modest width, invites you to enjoy relaxed riding, linking gentle bends and short straight sections.

The route passes through Vila Nova and continues toward Ermeira, two small localities where life seems to move at a different pace. Traditional houses blend with farming operations, and the air is filled with the scent of vegetation and the fields that surround the road. The silence is broken only by the sound of the engine and the songs of the birds that accompany much of the ride.

As we go on, the terrain becomes slightly more rolling and lovely views begin to open over the nearby valleys. The route alternates between small descents and climbs that make the ride more engaging without losing that tranquil character that defines this first part of the stage. The presence of vineyards and cultivated land reminds us that we are still crossing a region closely tied to agricultural activity.

The last kilometers bring us closer to Abrigada, a larger locality than the previous ones, set among slopes covered in vegetation. Its streets and buildings signal the arrival in a more active center before continuing inland. If time allows, it is well worth looking up to take in the hills surrounding the town, which will accompany much of the route over the next kilometers.

The stretch ends at a T-junction, where we must turn right to join road N115-1 and continue following the route itinerary.

End of section

Section 13: N115-1 - Cercal (6.8 Km)

The N115-1 continues to wind through a rolling landscape where small patches of pine and eucalyptus alternate with meadows, crops, and scattered farms. The road surface is in very good condition, and its generous width makes for smooth riding, linking wide-radius bends with straight sections that invite you to take in the scenery without losing the pleasure of riding.

After leaving Abrigada behind, the route passes through small villages such as Rochaforte and Casais do Meio, where traditional houses appear surrounded by fields and gardens. The atmosphere is thoroughly rural. The air is filled with the scent of vegetation and nearby woods, while the rustling of the wind through the trees accompanies the steady sound of the engine.

As we continue, the road runs for a few kilometers through wooded stretches where eucalyptus and pines cast pleasant shade over the asphalt. The route becomes slightly more engaging thanks to a succession of gentle bends that follow the undulations of the land, offering relaxed but very rewarding riding. From time to time the forest opens up to reveal small panoramic views over the hills that define this part of western Portugal.

In the last few kilometers, vineyards and agricultural holdings reappear before we approach Cercal. The road regains a straighter alignment and passes through the first buildings of the town, where the atmosphere becomes a little livelier again without losing the peaceful character of the inland villages.

With nearly ninety kilometers covered since leaving Lisbon, the transformation of the landscape is now complete. The big city is far behind us, and the route now follows secondary roads that let us discover a much more authentic, unhurried, and enjoyable Portugal to explore on two wheels.

The section ends on arriving in Cercal, where we must continue along the main road through the town to connect with the next stage of the route.

End of section

Section 14: Cercal - Alcoentre (4.3 Km)

The N366 leaves Cercal behind on a wide road with a good surface and a very smooth layout. The first meters run past the town’s last houses before opening into a more open setting, where small farms and scattered trees accompany the ride. The riding is comfortable and relaxed, with wide-radius bends that let you hold a steady pace with hardly any effort.

The route crosses a largely agricultural area, where fields alternate with patches of woodland that cast pleasant shade over the road. The air still carries the scent of vegetation and cultivated earth, while traffic remains scarce, allowing you to enjoy the sound of the engine and the calm atmosphere that defines this part of western Portugal.

Before reaching Alcoentre, we cross the IC2 corridor via a small roundabout, one of the country’s main communication routes. However, the route avoids joining it and stays true to the secondary roads, always seeking the most enjoyable itinerary for the motorcyclist.

The final kilometers take us into Alcoentre along a wide avenue lined with trees and traditional houses. This town is known for housing the historic Palacio-Presidio de Alcoentre, a building that served as a prison for decades and is part of Portugal’s contemporary history. It is one of those places that add an interesting historical nuance to the journey.

The section ends after passing through Alcoentre, continuing along the main road to link up with the next stage of the route.

End of section

Section 15: Alcoentre - Manrique do Intendente (6.4 Km)

Leaving Alcoentre, the M511 once again takes us into a fully rural landscape. We leave the last houses of the town behind and begin a gentle climb among perfectly aligned vineyards, small agricultural plots, and hills covered in vegetation. The road surface is in good condition and the width is enough to enjoy relaxed riding, linking broad bends with short straights that let us take in the surroundings.

The route crosses a district where the vine plays a leading role. Rows of vineyards accompany much of the ride, alternating with pinewoods and eucalyptus trees that, at times, envelop the road in their distinctive aroma. The air feels clean and fresh, while the whisper of the wind through the trees and the sound of the engine create a pleasant soundtrack for this stretch.

As we move on, the road becomes smoother and passes through small wooded areas that provide pleasant shade before opening out again over cultivated fields. The route presents gentle rises and dips that make the ride enjoyable without demanding too much, allowing you to enjoy the scenery in peace. It is one of those stretches where it is easy to let yourself be carried along by the rhythm of the road.

The last few kilometers bring us closer to Manique do Intendente, a town with an interesting historical past linked to the Marquess of Pombal, who promoted its development in the 18th century. As we approach the urban area, the first houses begin to appear and the road turns into a passage through town where it is wise to ease off the throttle to enjoy the atmosphere of the place.

With just over one hundred kilometers covered since leaving Lisbon, the stage has already shown much of the diversity of inland Portugal. The secondary roads, the small villages, and the agricultural landscape have become the true stars of the journey, leaving the bustle of the capital far behind.

The stage ends in Manique do Intendente,

End of section

Section 16: Manrique do Intendente - Riberia de Sao Joao (9 Km)

Before leaving Manique do Intendente, it is well worth stopping the bike for a few minutes in front of the impressive Palácio de Pina Manique. Its monumental neoclassical façade, dominated by the church integrated into the building itself and crowned by numerous stork nests, is one of the most striking architectural ensembles in the west of Portugal. Although it was never completed, this 18th-century palace remains the great symbol of the town and a place well worth a photo before continuing the route.

Leaving the urban area behind, the road once again slips into a peaceful landscape of gentle hills, farmland and small patches of pine woodland. The surface remains excellent and the road, narrow yet comfortable, links open bends with short straights that make for relaxed riding. The air carries the scent of eucalyptus and the vegetation that accompanies the route, while the murmur of the wind finally replaces the bustle of the villages.

The itinerary passes through small villages such as Arrifana and Arrouquelas, where traditional houses appear scattered among vegetable gardens and farmland plots. The road winds gently following the contours of the land, offering very enjoyable riding and a landscape that alternates open stretches with small woods capable of providing pleasant shade on the hottest days.

As we continue, the surroundings become increasingly rural. Long straights are combined with wide bends that invite you to keep a steady pace, enjoying both the riding and the calm of the landscape. With just over a hundred kilometres covered from Lisbon, this stage is now fully immersed in inland Portugal, where the secondary roads show their most authentic side.

The section ends on reaching Ribeira de São João, where we continue along the main road through the town to connect with the next stretch of the route.

End of section

Section 17: Riberia de Sao Joao - SANTAREM (22 Km)

The N114 leaves Ribeira de São João to offer one of the most enjoyable stretches of this first part of the stage. The road winds between gentle hills, linking broad bends and small changes in elevation that keep the riding pace very pleasant. The surface is in excellent condition and the width of the road allows you to enjoy every curve with complete confidence, while the landscape alternates between farmland, vineyards, pine groves and patches of eucalyptus.

For much of the route, the air is scented with the aroma of the vegetation and the fields that line the road. The sound of the engine accompanies the whisper of the wind through the trees and there is barely any traffic, allowing you to fully enjoy one of those secondary roads that seem made to be ridden on two wheels. The small towns of Freiria, Azambujeira and Perofilho follow one after another naturally, preserving the calm, rural atmosphere that characterizes this region.

As we approach the end of the stretch, the landscape begins to change. The agricultural areas gradually give way to a more urban setting and traffic increases slightly, an unmistakable sign that we are nearing one of Portugal’s most important historical cities. From the road, you can already sense the elevated position of Santarém, set on an impressive escarpment overlooking the broad valley of the Tagus River.

Santarém is known as the Capital of Portuguese Gothic and is one of the major cultural landmarks of all A Rota 18. If the weather is on our side, it is well worth taking some time to wander through its magnificent historic center and visit some of its most emblematic monuments, such as the Sé Cathedral, the Igreja da Graça, where the remains of Pedro Álvares Cabral rest, the Igreja de Marvila, famous for its spectacular tile decoration, or the Igreja de São João de Alporão. Nor should you leave without stopping by the Jardim das Portas do Sol, an extraordinary viewpoint set above the old city walls from which you can enjoy one of the finest panoramas of the Tagus valley.

With roughly a third of the stage already covered, Santarém is an excellent place to pause, have a coffee or even stop for lunch before continuing the journey. Its wealth of monuments and privileged location make it well worth parking the bike and spending a few minutes walking its streets.

End of section

Section 18: SANTAREM - Golega (31 Km)

As you leave Santarém on the N365, the road drops down from the escarpment on which the city stands and heads into the vast plain of the Tagus valley. The landscape changes dramatically. The hills disappear and a virtually level stretch begins, where the horizon seems endless. The road surface is excellent and the layout flows very smoothly, alternating long straights with bends so gentle they barely require any change in line.

On both sides, vast fields of crops, vineyards and fertile floodplains fed by the Tagus River appear, its presence accompanying us for much of the route. The air takes on a different scent, a mix of cultivated earth, freshly grown grass and moisture coming from the great river. The silence of the plain is broken only by the steady sound of the engine and the wind blowing freely across the open fields.

The route crosses the surroundings of the Reserva Natural do Paul do Boquilobo, one of the most important protected areas in Portugal and designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This wetland is a true paradise for waterbirds, so it is not unusual to see storks, herons or numerous bird species flying over the flooded areas near the river.

The ride remains relaxed as we leave behind small towns such as Póvoa da Isenta, Vale de Figueira and Pombalinho. The agricultural landscape completely dominates the area, offering a pleasant sense of openness very different from the kilometres covered this morning. It is a road to be enjoyed at an easy pace, letting your gaze drift off into the horizon.

The last kilometres bring us closer to Golegã, considered the true Portuguese capital of the horse. Its streets, squares and many coudelarias recall the town’s deep equestrian tradition, and every November it hosts the renowned Feira Nacional do Cavalo, the most important horse event in the country. A stroll through the centre reveals equestrian sculptures, courtyards tied to the world of horses, and the elegant Igreja Matriz de Golegã, one of the town’s most emblematic buildings.

With around one hundred and sixty kilometres covered, we are already approaching the halfway point of the stage. Golegã is a magnificent place to stop, rest for a few minutes or enjoy Ribatejo cuisine before continuing the journey.

End of section

Section 19: Golega - N349 (9 Km)

We leave Golegã behind on the N243, a road that gradually sheds the town’s equestrian atmosphere as it returns to the vast Ribatejo plain. The layout is broad, the pavement is in excellent condition, and the ride feels comfortable from the very first meters. The road blends long straight stretches with gentle bends, allowing for a relaxed pace as the landscape opens once again over endless cultivated fields.

Over the first kilometers we cross the outskirts of the town before entering a setting where farmland and plantations predominate, characteristic of the fertile lands watered by the Tagus. The air still carries a faint scent of tilled earth and vegetation, while the sound of the engine accompanies a route where traffic is usually light and hardly bothersome.

As we go on, small places such as Riachos and Corrêas appear, linked by a road that offers almost no difficulty and lets us enjoy the scenery at ease. The trees lined along some sections provide pleasant patches of shade, while the gentle undulations of the terrain break up the monotony of the plain without changing the relaxed character of the ride.

Riachos keeps a strong railway character, historically tied to the important Northern Line that runs through this region. Little by little we begin to sense a more urban atmosphere, a sign that we are drawing close to Torres Novas, one of the most important towns in central Portugal.

The section ends at a large roundabout on the outskirts of Torres Novas. There we must take the first exit to continue on the N349.

End of section

Section 20: N349 - N358 (4 Km)

The N349 carries us for a few kilometres through surroundings that once again change character. After leaving the outskirts of Torres Novas behind, the road narrows slightly and begins to wind between pine forests, holm oaks and vegetation much denser than in the previous stretches. The surface remains excellent, and the wide, flowing bends make the ride especially enjoyable.

The treetops draw close to the edge of the asphalt, creating pleasant patches of shade, very welcome on the hottest days. The scent of pine and scrubland replaces the crop fields that have accompanied us since Santarém, while the silence of the forest is broken only by the sound of the engine and the song of birds hidden among the vegetation.

Although it is a short stretch, the road offers an entertaining line, with medium-radius bends that follow the contours of the land and require each turn to be linked smoothly. It is one of those kilometres that are enjoyed more for the sensations they convey than for the distance covered, offering a small breather before crossing new towns once again.

With a little over one hundred and seventy kilometres covered, we find ourselves very close to the halfway point of the stage. The landscape continues to change little by little, showing the huge variety of settings this day offers between Lisbon and inland Portugal.

The stretch ends at an intersection where, after a STOP sign, we turn right to reach the N358.

End of section

Section 21: N358 - M546-2 (38 Km)

The N358 offers us one of the longest and most varied stretches of the entire day. From the very first kilometers, the road alternates long straight sections with a succession of broad curves that naturally follow the undulations of the terrain. The surface is excellent and the width of the road allows for a very pleasant pace, turning this ride into a true delight for any motorcyclist.

The landscape changes constantly. We leave behind small villages and agricultural areas to cross cultivated fields, olive groves and pine forests, while the road draws closer to the A13 at several points without ever losing the charm of secondary roads. The air smells of pine resin, Mediterranean scrub and cultivated earth, while the wind accompanies the steady sound of the engine during many kilometers that are practically free of traffic.

Along the route we pass through small settlements such as Fungalvaz, Chãos and Vale de Chãos, where the road briefly becomes a through street before heading back between forests and gentle hills. The layout keeps up a very entertaining rhythm, alternating fast bends with others that are a little tighter, always on asphalt that inspires confidence and allows you to fully enjoy the ride.

One of the main highlights of this stretch is the Castelo do Bode. The road runs very close to this huge reservoir formed by the Zêzere River, one of the largest in Portugal and known for the extraordinary quality of its waters and the spectacular landscape created by its countless inlets among the mountains. At several points, beautiful views open up over the water, offering a pleasant feeling of freshness that contrasts with the inland heat during the summer months.

With more than two hundred kilometers behind us, this is an excellent moment to consider a stop if we have not already made one. The reservoir surroundings and the nearby small towns offer quiet places to rest for a few minutes before tackling the second half of the stage.

In the final kilometers the road once again heads into pine forests, linking very flowing bends that invite you to keep enjoying the ride until reaching the end of the stretch. The calm of the surroundings, the scent of the forest and the quality of the asphalt make this route one of the most pleasant of the entire day.

The stretch ends at a junction where we must continue straight ahead to join the M546-2 road.

End of section

Section 22: M546-2 - N548-2 (3 Km)

The M546-2 maintains the excellent standard of the previous kilometers. Although this is a short stretch, the road offers a very pleasing layout, with broad, perfectly linked bends that invite you to enjoy a smooth ride. The pavement is in excellent condition, and the surroundings are once again dominated by pine forests, eucalyptus trees, and gentle hills covered in vegetation.

The feeling of calm is absolute. The scent of resin and scrubland accompanies the whole route, while the sound of the engine blends with the wind passing through the forest. Traffic remains very light, allowing us to enjoy every bend with the feeling that we almost have the road to ourselves.

Within a few minutes we reach the first houses of Monte Almeirim. The road crosses this small town naturally, passing by traditional homes before opening out slightly again among garden areas and small farming plots. It is one of those quiet villages where time seems to move at a different pace, perfectly integrated into the landscape that surrounds it.

The last few meters keep the same relaxed character, linking one final bend before reaching the end of the stretch. With more than two hundred fifteen kilometers behind us, we have clearly already passed the halfway point of the stage and are entering an area where secondary roads continue to be the true stars of the journey.

End of section

Section 23: N548-2 - Valongo (1 Km)

Although it is barely more than a kilometre long, this short stretch of the M548-2 keeps intact the essence of the roads we have been enjoying over the last few kilometres. The asphalt remains in excellent condition, and the road links together a couple of gentle bends between pine forests and vegetation-covered slopes, offering smooth and very pleasant riding.

The forest once again surrounds the route with the unmistakable scent of pines and eucalyptus. The air feels fresh even on warm days, while the silence is broken only by the sound of the engine and the wind that accompanies each bend. The short length of the stretch does not prevent you from enjoying that pleasant feeling of riding completely immersed in nature.

Little by little the road widens and the landscape begins to open up, signalling the proximity of a town. The final bends lead to the outskirts of Valongo, where the signage and the first links to other roads reappear, preparing us for the change of scenery we will find in the next stretch.

At kilometre 218 of the stage we reach a T-junction where we will turn left.

End of section

Section 24: Valongo - Chao de Codes (14 Km)

The N244-3 continues to offer us one of the most enjoyable roads of the entire stage. From the very first meters, the layout adapts to the shape of the hills, linking broad bends with others a little tighter over immaculate asphalt. The ride feels very dynamic, yet always smooth, letting you enjoy every turn while the landscape alternates between pine forests, eucalyptus trees, and small clearings where crops and scattered houses appear.

As we move on, the road rises and falls gently, following the contours of the terrain. The forest embraces much of the route, and the scent of resin mixes with that of Mediterranean vegetation. The silence of the surroundings, broken only by the sound of the engine and the wind through the trees, turns this stretch into one of those places where riding is enjoyed with all five senses.

The route passes through small villages such as Ribeira and Porto da Igreja, where the road becomes, for a few moments, a crossing through town before returning once again into hills covered in forest. From some elevated points, beautiful views open up over the nearby valleys, allowing you to take in the succession of hills that defines this part of central Portugal.

The road maintains a very varied rhythm לאורך the whole journey, alternating fast curves with small changes in elevation that make the ride especially entertaining without ever becoming demanding. It is one of those stretches that invite you to forget the clock and let yourself be carried away by the pleasure of linking curve after curve.

With more than two hundred and thirty kilometers behind us, we have clearly already passed the halfway point of the stage. From here on, the landscape becomes increasingly mountainous, foreshadowing some of the most attractive stretches of the route to Porto.

The stretch ends upon reaching Chão de Codes, where we continue along the main road to connect with the next section of the route.

End of section

Section 25: Chao de Codes - Mação (8 Km)

The N244 continues to wind its way into an increasingly mountainous landscape, where the gentle plains of the Tagus valley have given way to a succession of hills covered with pine and eucalyptus groves. The road surface is excellent, and the route becomes much more dynamic, linking broad bends with medium-radius curves that closely follow the lie of the land. It is a stretch that invites you to enjoy the ride at a relaxed pace, looking for the perfect line through every corner.

For much of the route, the forest completely surrounds the road. The scent of resin, scrub, and warm earth accompanies every kilometer, while the wind stirs the treetops, creating a pleasant rustling that blends with the sound of the engine. Traffic remains light, allowing you to fully enjoy one of the most pleasant roads in this second half of the stage.

As we go on, small places such as Revota and Pereiro appear, where the road briefly passes through a few houses before plunging back into the pine forests. The layout alternates gentle descents and slight climbs that keep the ride engaging without becoming demanding, offering constant views over the hills stretching out on both sides of the route.

The final kilometers bring us closer to Mação, a town with a long history linked to the Order of Malta and considered the gateway to the mountainous Pinhal Interior region. Its quiet streets and well-kept urban center invite you to stop for a few minutes before continuing the route. If you have time, it is worth heading to the Igreja Matriz de Mação and strolling through the historic center to discover the peaceful atmosphere of this town.

With approximately two hundred and forty kilometers covered, we are now approaching the final third of the stage. The landscape continues to gain character, and the roads begin to take on an increasingly winding and mountainous feel, hinting at some of the most enjoyable stretches of the route.

Shortly after, we arrive in Mação, where this stretch ends.

End of section

Section 26: Mação - M1275 (5 Km)

As soon as you leave Mação behind, the road changes character. The M549 narrows slightly and begins to snake between the first slopes of the mountain range, offering a much more technical and enjoyable ride. The asphalt is in good condition and the bends come one after another naturally, alternating open curves with tighter turns that invite you to ride with precision and enjoy the bike’s balance.

The last houses soon disappear and the landscape is taken over by pine forests, eucalyptus trees and vegetation-covered slopes. The air becomes cooler and cleaner, scented with the unmistakable aroma of the inland Portuguese woods. In those moments when the engine rests as you exit a bend, you can hear the wind moving the treetops and the birds singing, while the road continues to adapt to the terrain without ever losing its flowing character.

The route passes beside the Aeródromo de Mação, an unusual landmark in the middle of this mountainous setting, before continuing to gain altitude through successive changes of direction. From some points, beautiful views open up over the valleys and forest-covered slopes, offering a pleasant sense of isolation and calm that makes this stretch one of the most appealing for anyone who enjoys linking bends.

With about two hundred and forty-five kilometres covered, the stage definitely enters its most mountainous section. The riding becomes more fun and the natural surroundings take centre stage kilometre after kilometre, making the pace much more relaxed and enjoyable now than on the wide straight roads of the Tagus valley.

The end of the stretch is marked by a junction where we must turn right towards Caratao, Vale de Mua, Degolados and Carvoeiro.

End of section

Section 27: M1275 - Vale da Mua (6 Km)

After leaving the previous junction, the M1275 plunges fully into the heart of the mountain range. The road is narrow, with well-maintained asphalt and a layout that seems made for enjoying on the bike. The bends flow into one another smoothly, alternating small changes in gradient with long, wide-radius curves that let you keep a steady pace while the landscape opens out on both sides.

Pine and eucalyptus forests dominate the route, although scattered olive trees and clearings covered in wildflowers also appear on the slopes, adding colour to the scenery. The aroma of Mediterranean vegetation blends with that of warm earth and pine resin, while the silence of the surroundings is broken only by the sound of the engine gently echoing between the mountains.

The road climbs and descends following the natural contours of the land, offering continuous views over small valleys covered in woodland. In some stretches the vegetation opens up enough to take in the gentle mountains surrounding this region of inland Portugal, conveying a pleasant sense of isolation. Only a few scattered homes and the odd small bridge over a stream appear, reminding us that we are crossing an area where nature is still the true protagonist.

This is one of those stretches where it is worth forgetting the clock. The almost total absence of traffic lets you enjoy every curve, the feel of the good asphalt, and a road that invites relaxed riding, linking bends effortlessly while the landscape slowly changes around us.

Having reached kilometre 251 of the stage, we arrive at Vale de Mua, where we will change to the next stretch..

End of section

Section 28: Vale da Mua - Envendos (6 Km)

The M1267 continues deeper into the Serra de Mação along a layout that seems made for those who enjoy stringing together one curve after another. The road keeps a restrained width, a surface in good condition and virtually no traffic, allowing you to focus solely on the ride. Each bend reveals a new hillside, a small valley or a shift in perspective that makes it very hard to take your eyes off the scenery.

The surroundings remain dominated by vast pine forests and eucalyptus groves, although the open stretches let you take in the vegetation-covered mountains that define this part of inland Portugal. The air carries the unmistakable scent of resin and the wildflowers growing beside the road, while the silence of the forest is broken only by the sound of the engine climbing and descending gently among the hills.

The route alternates long sweeping corners with small changes of direction that call for a focused but very enjoyable pace. At some points the road seems to disappear between the slopes before opening out again onto broad panoramic views of the valley. The feeling of isolation is total and turns this stretch into one of those places where it is worth slowing down and letting yourself be carried by the surroundings.

Shortly before the end, the first houses of Envendos appear, a small village where the road narrows again as it crosses its streets. The village’s peaceful atmosphere contrasts with the solitude of the previous kilometres and provides a pleasant transition before continuing the stage.

With two hundred and fifty-seven kilometres covered, the day is now entering its final stretch, although some of the most enjoyable roads in this mountainous region still lie ahead.

The section ends in Envendos, continuing along the village’s main street to link up with the next stretch of the route.

End of section

Section 29: Envendos - M359-1 (2 Km)

This short stretch serves as a link between two of the most enjoyable roads of the day, but it is no less interesting for that. The M552 keeps a narrow, very pleasant layout, adapting to the mountain terrain with gentle bends and small changes in gradient that make it necessary to stay alert. The surface remains in good condition and traffic continues to be practically nonexistent.

As we leave Envendos, we immediately return to the characteristic landscape of this region: slopes covered with pine and eucalyptus, rocky embankments, and wide views over the mountains of inland Portugal. The scent of the vegetation becomes noticeable again as soon as we leave the last houses behind, while the silence of the surroundings lets us fully enjoy the sound of the engine with every acceleration.

Although it is barely a couple of kilometres, the road keeps that flowing character that invites you to link bends naturally. The panoramas over the wooded slopes and the small clearings where a few isolated houses appear reinforce the feeling of crossing a little-travelled territory deeply tied to nature.

Soon the junction appears that marks the end of the stretch. The road comes out onto a T-junction where we must turn left to join the M359-1 and keep enjoying the mountain roads of the next stretch.

Very close to here is the Pracana dam on the Ocreza River, a right-bank tributary of the Tagus, whose construction was completed in 1950 and which we will cross in just over 3 km.

End of section

Section 30: M359-1 - IP2 (6 Km)

The M359-1 continues to raise the day’s level of enjoyment. The road keeps an excellent surface and a sinuous layout that follows the slopes of the Ocreza River valley with precision. Every bend flows naturally into the next, alternating short straights with wide curves that let you enjoy a smooth ride as the scenery grows more and more spectacular.

The mountains covered with pine and eucalyptus woods accompany the entire route. The air smells of forest and Mediterranean vegetation, while the wildflowers growing along the verges add splashes of color to the slopes. The silence of the mountains is broken only by the sound of the engine and the wind that accompanies each change of direction, making this one of those stretches where it is hard to resist stopping for a few minutes to take in the scenery.

Little by little, one of the great stars of this stage begins to appear. The first views of the reservoir and the impressive Barragem do Cabril announce a truly special place. The huge dam, built on the Zêzere River, is one of Portugal’s greatest hydraulic engineering works and completely dominates the valley. From the road, magnificent panoramas can be seen of the dam wall and the reservoir, nestled between mountains covered in woodland.

After skirting the reservoir area, the road descends through several bends until reaching the bridge that crosses the river beside the dam. The combination of water, mountains, and road makes this place one of the most photogenic spots on the entire route.

The stretch ends when you reach an intersection where you must turn right to join the IP2 and continue toward the next section of the stage.

End of section

Section 31: IP2 - M528 (9 Km)

As we merge onto the IP2, the character of the ride changes completely. We leave behind the narrow mountain roads to travel on a much wider road, with impeccable pavement and generous lanes that allow us to keep a steady pace. Although the route is faster, the road still crosses a mountainous landscape and retains a good number of sweeping bends that make the ride pleasant and far from monotonous.

The landscape continues to be dominated by the pine forests and eucalyptus groves that cover the slopes of the Zêzere river valley. The road winds on between gentle hills, with wide views over the mountains and forests that define this area of central Portugal. The air carries the scent of resin and vegetation, while the engine sound becomes more even as we are able to maintain a constant speed on this broad stretch.

As we move away from the dam, traffic remains light and the feeling of travelling through a sparsely populated area continues to stay with us. The long curves let us enjoy the scenery without having to ease off the pace, and at several points magnificent views appear over the valleys we have been crossing over the last few kilometres.

With close to two hundred and seventy-five kilometres covered, the stage is now entering its final stretch. After many kilometres of mountain roads, this section offers a brief respite before we once again leave the main road and return to much more winding secondary roads.

The section ends at an intersection where we must leave the IP2, taking the exit on the right to join the M528 and continue along the next part of the route.

End of section

Section 32: M528 - Arez (4 Km)

The M528 eases off again after the brief stint on the IP2. The road regains its local-road character, with a narrower carriageway and a pleasant layout that winds between gentle, vegetation-covered hills. The surface continues to offer very good grip, and the linked bends invite a relaxed ride, enjoying the surroundings more than the speed.

The landscape slowly begins to change. The large pine forests give way to a more open terrain where meadows, holm oaks, and small cultivated fields appear, separated by stone walls. The air still carries the scent of the hills, although now it mixes with the smell of grass and dry earth. Hardly anything can be heard besides the engine and the song of the birds that live in this quiet rural area.

The road continues without major gradients, tracing gentle curves that let you take in the rolling terrain and a few scattered farms. It is a short stretch, but a very enjoyable one, conveying the feeling of riding through an authentic region, far from traffic and the bustle of the main roads.

The last meters lead us to Arez, where the first houses reappear, flanked by traditional stone walls and large trees that provide shade along the crossing. The small town preserves the serene atmosphere of the villages of inland Portugal and makes for a perfect transition before tackling the final kilometers of the stage.

The stretch ends in the crossing of Arez, where we will turn left toward Fadagosa de Nisa.

End of section

Section 33: Arez - Nisa (9 Km)

The N364 leaves Arez on a wide road, with excellent pavement and a very smooth layout that invites you to ride at an easy pace. After the village’s last buildings, the landscape opens up again and the feeling of space replaces the more hemmed-in roads between mountains from the previous sections. The gentle curves and long straights let you enjoy the ride without effort, leaving your eyes free to wander across the dehesas that define this part of the Alto Alentejo.

The holm oaks now become the true stars of the landscape. Their canopies cast shade along the roadside, while broad meadows unfold on both sides of the asphalt. The scent changes again: the pine-forest resin slowly fades away, giving way to the smell of dry grass, warm earth and centuries-old trees. The sound of the wind in the branches accompanies the steady hum of the engine in a relaxed and very pleasant ride.

Shortly before reaching Nisa, we begin to catch sight of the first houses and the surroundings gradually become more urban. The road leads us directly to one of the most distinctive towns in the Portalegre district. Nisa preserves an interesting historic centre enclosed by ancient medieval walls and is especially known for its traditional stone embroidery, a unique craft that is part of the town’s identity. If the time allows, it is well worth strolling through its streets and heading to the Igreja Matriz de Nisa or discovering the historic Porta da Vila, one of the surviving gateways of the old fortress.

With almost two hundred and ninety kilometers already covered, it is now clear that the stage is entering its final kilometers. The route continues to offer very pleasant roads, but towns also begin to appear, making it easy to stop briefly before tackling the final stretch of the day.

End of section

Section 34: Nisa - N525-1 (2 Km)

We leave behind the last streets of Nisa to rejoin the N359. In just a few metres, the urban atmosphere fades away and we are back on a wide road with excellent pavement and gentle bends, perfect for continuing to enjoy relaxed riding. Leaving the town is quick, and before long we recover the calm that is so typical of Alto Alentejo.

The landscape remains dominated by holm oak dehesas, alternating with small meadows and gentle hills covered in vegetation. The scent of open countryside and sun-warmed earth returns to the fore, while the silence is broken only by the sound of the engine and the birdsong of the creatures that live in this sparsely urbanised environment.

Although it is a very short stretch, it is pleasing for the smoothness of its layout. The linked bends follow one another naturally, allowing us to keep a steady pace as the road rises and falls gently between centuries-old trees that provide patches of shade.

With around two hundred and ninety kilometres covered, the stage is definitely entering its final straight. There are still a few kilometres to go to reach the destination, but it already feels like we are enjoying the last landscapes of inland Portugal before the end of the day.

The stretch ends at a Y-shaped junction, where we must take the right-hand branch to join the N525-1 and continue on to the next section.

End of section

Section 35: N525-1 - Póvoa e Meadas (12 Km)

A couple of kilometers ago we left Nisa behind, and now we ride along the M525-1 to tackle one of the most enjoyable stretches of this part of the stage. The road, narrow but with an impeccable surface, winds through vast dehesas of holm oaks and cork oaks, a landscape very characteristic of Alto Alentejo where traffic practically vanishes and riding becomes especially relaxing.

After just a few kilometers we reach the Barragem do Poio, a small reservoir that breaks the monotony of the landscape and adds a beautiful contrast of water and vegetation. It is well worth taking in the views as the road partly skirts the reservoir through gentle bends and slight changes in elevation.

The route continues alternating small groves, meadows and livestock farms, with the aroma of rockroses and wild grasses accompanying us for much of the ride. The only constant sound is the engine, interrupted only by the song of birds and the wind moving through the crowns of the holm oaks.

Little by little, the first houses begin to appear, announcing our arrival in Póvoa e Meadas, a quiet town with broad streets and a peaceful atmosphere. With a little over three hundred kilometers behind us, we are now entering the final stretches of this long day through inland Portugal.

End of section

Section 36: Póvoa e Meadas - M1134 (6 Km)

We leave Póvoa e Meadas behind and head deep into the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. The M1006 runs along a narrow road, perfectly paved and with very little traffic, ideal for enjoying a relaxed ride as the scenery becomes increasingly natural and wild.

Gentle bends continually link small hills covered with holm oaks, cork oaks and meadows dotted with wildflowers in spring. In some stretches the road drops away, offering sweeping views over the dehesas of Alto Alentejo, where the horizon seems endless.

This stretch crosses one of the areas of greatest ecological value in the natural park, a protected space that is home to a great diversity of Mediterranean fauna and flora. The silence is broken only by birdsong, the hum of insects and the sound of the wind moving through the treetops, creating a pleasant sense of isolation and calm.

The road keeps a very enjoyable layout, alternating short straights with open bends that let you take in the landscape without any rush. The scent of rockroses and wild herbs accompanies much of the ride as we head ever deeper into the heart of the mountain range.

With more than three hundred kilometers behind us, this is one of those stretches that simply invite you to let go and enjoy the motorcycle, the surroundings and the peace conveyed by this corner of inland Portugal.

The stretch ends at an intersection where we will continue to the left to join the M1134 and keep moving toward the next section of the route.

End of section

Section 37: M1134 - N359 (7 Km)

We keep moving along the M1134, fully immersed in the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. The road offers an excellent surface and a narrow, winding layout that invites you to enjoy a relaxed ride through some of the most beautiful scenery along the entire route.

Dehesas of holm oaks and cork oaks unfold on both sides of the road, alternating with wide meadows covered in wildflowers and gentle hills stretching out to the horizon. On clear days, the mountains of Serra de São Mamede begin to appear in the distance, providing a magnificent backdrop for this stretch.

The almost complete absence of traffic allows you to fully enjoy the surroundings. Only the sound of the engine, the wind and the birdsong break the silence of this protected area, one of the most important natural enclaves in the Alentejo for its scenic beauty and biodiversity.

The road links long, sweeping bends with short straights that let you take in the landscape at ease. The scent of wildflowers and Mediterranean vegetation accompanies you throughout the ride, while the feeling of isolation turns this stretch into a true delight for any motorcyclist.

Shortly before the end, the first signs for Marvão appear, considered one of the most spectacular towns in Portugal. Although our route does not climb up to it, if you have time it is well worth detouring a few kilometres to visit this impressive walled medieval town, set on a spectacular rocky promontory with extraordinary views over the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park.

The stretch ends as we join the N359, where we will continue straight ahead to follow the next section of the route.

End of section

Section 38: N359 - PORTALEGRE (33 Km)

This final stretch of the stage gathers much of the essence of Alto Alentejo. From the N359, we continue crossing the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park along a road with excellent pavement that alternates long straight sections with gentle bends among oak parkland, cork oaks and small Mediterranean woods, always with very little traffic.

Very soon we reach the outskirts of Marvão, one of Portugal’s great historical gems. Although the route does not climb up to its walled enclosure, it is well worth taking the time to visit this spectacular medieval town, considered one of the most beautiful in the country. Perched on an impressive granite crag, its castle, its walls and its narrow cobbled streets offer unforgettable views over the whole of Serra de São Mamede and even, on clear days, over much of Extremadura.

The road continues descending toward Portagem, a small place well known for its medieval bridge over the Sever River and for its natural pools, a perfect spot for a break in the hottest months while enjoying the sound of the water and the peaceful atmosphere of the town.

From here the landscape alternates small valleys, wooded areas and open meadows. The scent of Mediterranean vegetation, the song of the birds and the wind accompanying the ride turn this route into a true experience for the five senses, while the bends let you fully enjoy the ride.

Before reaching the destination, it is also worth noting the imposing Amoreira Aqueduct, a magnificent 16th-century feat of engineering that supplied water to Portalegre and still remains one of the city’s most representative monuments today.

Finally, we enter Portalegre, capital of Alto Alentejo and the end of this seventh stage of A Rota 18. Its historic centre, Portalegre Cathedral, the Castle, the Guy Fino Tapestry Museum and its lively squares invite you to stroll around at a relaxed pace after an intense day on the motorcycle. Here ends a stage of almost 350 kilometres that combines magnificent roads, nature, historical heritage and some of the most authentic landscapes in the interior of Portugal.

End of section