WELCOME TO PORTUGAL
Following last year's successful run to the sun down through Portugal to the Algarve we're doing it all over again in October 2026, inclusive of 13 nights twin share hotel, return ferry crossings and a support vehicle bringing up the rear.
The tour starts with the overnight ferry from Plymouth to Santander on the 11th October, we have a transit day through Spain before spending six days winding down the spine of Portugal, riding much of the ACT, until we reach the Algarve coast.
We'll have a day off the bikes, or alternatively head out with local guides who will take you on an incredible single track adventure, before beginning the journey back to Bilbao for the return ferry to Portsmouth, landing back on the 25th October.
You do need to be trail literate, with the terrain not technical but plenty of it. You should have done some trail riding before and have a generally good level of fitness. You don't have to be fast or ride like the wind, you just have to have a basic competency which will enable you to ride on light to moderate trails for a sustained number of days (please message me with any queries on your suitability for this). The focus here is on safety and giving everyone the space to ride at a pace that is suitable for them.
A lighter trail/travel bike such as the CRF300, Voge, Himalayan, KTM 390 etc will all be ideal for this trip, although there is no upper size limit. Please make contact with any bike enquiries.
The tour will be led by Julian Gardiner and Ben Catt, an exceptional pairing - both with first aid training and strong competency on the trails. A support vehicle will be on hand to throw any excess bags in and support along the way.
There's still some final routing to be done, but to give you an idea of the trails and the scenery have a quick look at the video below. Any questions give me a shout. Price for the trip is £2195 (£250 deposit) inclusive of the return ferry with shared cabin, twin share hotel accommodation throughout (single room option available) and the team on the ground to help you along the way, though please note that all riders must be self sufficient with navigation as this is not a group guided ride; more an assisted adventure to allow you the freedom to ride at your own pace and with like minded individuals within the group, knowing that support is never far away. Again, we can assist with getting your up and running with navigation apps and such like.
