Porto to Lisbon cycling holiday in Portugal

Planet

Cycling holidays are a relatively sustainable way to travel as they have less negative impact on the local infrastructure, environment and people while encouraging positive interaction with local people. We cycle on routes that are removed from mass tourism, creating less pollution, noise and traffic. When using motorised transport we work with small, locally owned transport companies. We travel on day 4 by train between Coimbra and Aveiro.

Our tour leaders do not use single use plastic bottles and encourage our customers to use their reusable water bottles advising the places where tap water is safe to drink or where they can refill their bottles from. For our optional picnic lunches on we avoid single use plastics by providing reusable plates, cutlery, etc.

As a travel company we are continually looking for ways to improve and are proud to be ‘Responsible in everything we do’. Education is key, and so all staff, Tour Leaders and partnering suppliers are trained in responsible and sustainable tourism. At our Head Office, we continually strive towards a sustainable and planet-friendly working environment, including having solar panels installed and a company commitment to reducing our plastic usage.

People

We use local tour leaders, who know the country very well and who will help to give us a unique insight into its history, customs and culture and get us that bit closer to the local people. Although English is widely spoken, guests are encouraged to learn a little Portuguese and practice it, thus helping to encourage a warm welcome. They also ensure that our customers are aware of the cultural norms that should be observed, dress code, gestures, etc. Our tour leaders are trained in the importance of responsible tourism with guidance given on how they can make a difference.

Our tour leaders will make recommendations to clients to use locally owned restaurants, bars and shops. When dining in restaurants our tour leaders also offer advice about what to order based on what’s in season and what has been produced locally. Guests will also be encouraged to try local wines and other locally produced drinks.

As a company we have valuable and longstanding partnerships with UK charities Toilet Twinning and Send a Cow, plus many smaller initiatives and projects around the world. We’re members of the UK travel industry body AITO because we believe it’s important to share our knowledge and experience, as well as learn from other operators.