Holiday Reviews
We invite every traveller who books a holiday via us to send in a review. Because we don't run the holidays they're completely independent and unedited... remember to read between the lines though, as two people on the same trip can have different views!
Read our review policy
Portugal cycling holidays, self guided, independent reviews
 Reviewed 27 May 2008 by Andrew Stewart |  |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Virtually every mile of the carefully chosen, completely safe Algarve biking route offered scenic pleasure - from countless orange, lemon and olive groves early in the week, to mountain vistas and dramatic seacoast rides later in the week, with brilliant spring flowers lining every mile each day. We personally found our two days in and around Carrapateira on the Atlantic Coast to be the single most thrilling and satisfying part of the trip.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
We trained for about six weeks prior to the bike trip, with a few hilly weekend rides of up to 30 miles. I think that extra effort paid off in our enjoyment of the trip, since we didn't find the hills more than we could handle. The temperatures in the Algarve in late April - based on our experience - are ideal for biking.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
There is no way to have less impact on the environment than by biking. I'm sure we did benefit local people, perhaps even more so in the springtime, when the tourist season was not yet in full swing.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
The support we received from Bert was exceptional. He simply could not have been a better host on our first - but I hope not last - trip to Portugal. Every aspect of this self-guided bike trip exceeded our expectations, and we've been on three prior bike tours in France and Italy. The care that went into planning each mile of the route was extraordinary. I'd really rate this holiday above four stars - I just shied away from your term "reborn".
| Reviewed 28 Oct 2009 by Mary Jane Ferrill | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The entire trip was beyond all of our expectations! It is difficult to pinpoint just one part, from the remote and beautiful little villages in the mountains to the rugged and breathtaking west coast and then finally to the busy town of Lagos with all of its great history, wonderful marina (great shopping) and beautiful beaches, it is truly hard to believe you can see so much in such a short amount of time.
The bikes themselves were excellent. The accomodations were superb, Bert has taken so much time and effort to personalize this holiday, that it makes this a truly exciting adventure. This is very important to me: Never once did I feel unsafe in any of the places we visited. Thanks Bert!! Good Job!!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
If you are looking for an active and laid-back kind of holiday and like smaller more personal accomodations a little 'off-the-beaten-path' kind of thing then this would definitely be a good choice. Ladies, leave your makeup and high heels at home! Pack your bag and then take out at least half of the stuff - you won't need it.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
We had several conversations with the local people in the places we visited, they were usually interested in where we came from and how our way of life may differ from theirs, (Canada vs Portugal) I think we learned a lot both ways! We ate everday in small local cafes and the food is always home cooked, very delicious!
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
One of the best ideas I've ever had!! It is evident that Bert is very concerned with the safety, well being, and satisfaction of his clients. I would highly recommend this holiday.
| Reviewed 19 Sep 2008 by Jayne Fahy | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The scenery - the peaceful Monchique hills and the wild beaches of the West coast, different but both beautiful and exciting. The fantastic descents on the bike going down almost traffic free roads at times. The excellent back up from the tour director, Bert Smeman. 'Bamboo' accommodation at Carrapateira stands out as our favourite place to stay, not just the fantastic location but the warmth of our host Isobel.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Book with this company, Bert Smeman, the owner of the company ensures the holiday was tailored to the individuals' needs and worry free. The tour that we were on - a basic level of fitness definite advantage. Remember to buy water and fruit/snack before you start each day, then you can stop whenever suits you for a break.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Absolutely. We stayed in small hotels at times, spent money in local shops/restuarants and obviously cycling has minimal impact on the environment.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent, the bikes were first class, I developed minor problem with mine and at the next stop Bert was there to meet me with new bike! The routes were excellent, directions were detailed and easy to follow so no fear of getting lost, and the people we met along the way were great.
| Reviewed 14 Oct 2009 by Barbara Lamplugh | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Without a doubt, our time at Carrapateira on the west coast - the beautiful, peaceful natural environment, vast empty beaches, dramatic sea and also our lovely accommodation there with Isabel, who couldn't have been more helpful and friendly. The round trip recommended by Bert for the second day at Carrapateira was well worth doing, probably the best ride of the week.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
If you prefer leisurely cycling and have the time, consider spending an extra day or two to give time for the beach/exploration/rest. We found Lagos a cultural shock - it seemed very touristy after the quiet places we'd been in before. If you're not into tourist resorts, Salema may be a better option for the last night.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Cycling is obviously the most environmentally friendly way to travel (although the luggage was being transported by car... but then if we'd had to carry it all on the bikes, I don't think I'd have chosen this holiday!) Hotels were locally owned, not big chains. We were using local shops and cafes away from the main tourist areas and out of the main season, so that would benefit local people.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Superb. Bert's organisation made everything work smoothly. You would certainly not find such thoughtfulness and individual attention in a larger outfit. The cycling was a joy: well-researched routes on mostly quiet roads with little traffic but good surfaces, not too hilly, not too flat, and with the accurate and detailed notes provided, you couldn't really go wrong. The bikes were excellent and it was reassuring being able to rely on Bert should there be any problems. It was very relaxing being able to go at our own pace, stop for photos, food, drink or rest when we felt like it - something you can't do so easily in an organised group. The accommodation was of a high standard with mostly good and generous breakfasts - perfect for cycling energy!
| Reviewed 13 May 2009 by Bob Addison | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Eating barbecued sardines with new potatoes and salad at an unsophisticated cafe miles from anywhere as the waitress told us that the potatoes and lettuce had come from her garden.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Do not be deterred by the thought of cycling in the foothills of Monchique. The bikes are good and with a little preparation and a willingness to walk a few short stretches even 73-year olds will enjoy it. Seek Bert's advice on where to eat; have the snails at Ponte Roma in Silves. Buy your port in England.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
The food was all local and so was most of the wine because, despite my best endeavours, very little Port was available. Most of the nights were spent in quintas and not hotels and these were very hospitable and comfortable. The local individual who stole my bike benefited substantially but this was balanced by the loss to Bert. I was unaffected. A very low energy holiday.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
One of the best holidays I have been on.
| Reviewed 2 Jul 2007 by Vittorio Piccioni | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Cycling from Carrapateira to Lagos, beautiful beaches and orange trees.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Cycling in the early morning.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Definitely.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Good.
| Reviewed 12 Nov 2006 by Michael Libman | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The holiday was great - the organization of the biking was impeccable, and the lodging was well chosen and very pleasant. The best part was travelling beautiful scenic roads with essentially no traffic.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
As for tips, I will only say that early November is a great time to bike in southern Portugal. No crowds, and perfect temperatures for being on a bike. However, take good rain gear - there are several stretches with absolutely no protection from getting very wet!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
I think using only bread as fuel is environmentally friendly, and staying and eating in small establishments is both rewarding and good business for the locals.
4. Any other comments?
I give this 4.5 stars for anyone who likes to bike - and if you don't you should!
| Reviewed 4 Oct 2006 by Philippa Little | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Experiencing the tranquillity of the Portuguese countryside was so refreshing – I recharged my batteries.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take your own, extra panniers for the bikes: depending on the weather, you want to take extra gear, e.g. towel, hat, food, etc.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Cycling must be as low as you can get on the scale of environmental impact. We cycled through the countryside mostly, so our money was spent in a wide variety of Portuguese restaurants, cafés, etc. that probably don’t see the tourist euro much, so I think that is positive.
4. Any other comments?
Definitely three star and I would not hesitate to recommend it to a friend; I will spare the grandchildren the stories!
| Reviewed 7 Jul 2006 by Susan White | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The most memorable part of our cycling trip was definitely discovering the seaside town of Carrapateira. Staying with such friendly hosts and sleeping at night with the sound of crashing waves was just beautiful. The quiet, remote location was very special. Surprisingly, the surrounding bush was very typical of what we see in Australia.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Tips for other travellers would relate to being prepared for long haul hills on the cycling. Whilst we cycle regularly I am not particularly strong and was challenged by the number of hills. The first day is the biggest shock so expect to be hot and tired. Be patient, one's fitness improves and the routes become easier. The changing countryside makes it all very worth it. It is a well thought out trip. We particularly enjoyed the back roads and tracks. Remember to put on your sunscreen and bring a chamois towel for all swimming opportunities whilst cycling.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
I am sure that we had little impact on the environment and we made contact with the locals by shopping in the supermarkets, eating at the small and well recommended restaurants, and staying at smaller hotels.
4. Any other comments?
I would rate this holiday with 3.5 stars. The bicycles are excellent, the service good and the tour interesting. Lots of birds, trees, beaches, fresh air, nature and good people. A lovely area to explore.