Wine Tasting Tour

An Authentic Portuguese Experience: Wine Tasting and Bike Adventure from Ericeira

Imagine pedaling through lush vineyards and rolling farmland, with the warm sun on your back and a glass of local wine in hand. That’s exactly what this Wine Tasting Tour offers — a blend of gentle cycling, stunning scenery, and some of Portugal’s best wines. Starting in the charming fishing village of Ericeira, known for its surf and seafood, this 4-hour guided excursion takes you on a journey through the countryside to reach the picturesque town of Cheleiros. For just $86.73 per person, you get a well-organized, friendly experience that’s perfect whether you’re a casual cyclist or a wine enthusiast.

Two features we particularly love are the guided bike ride — which takes the hassle out of navigation — and the local wine tasting with six premium wines, accompanied by bread and olive oil. It’s a fantastic way to combine outdoor activity with culture. The only consideration is that the tour depends on good weather, so if rain hits, you might need to reschedule.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, want to discover Portugal’s wine culture, and appreciate scenic landscapes without the challenge of complex routes. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with others who might not be avid cyclists but still want a full, authentic experience.

Key Points

• Scenic Cycling: Easy mountain bike trails and off-road tracks through vineyards and natural landscapes.
• Expert Guidance: Led by friendly guides, ensuring you stay on track and learn about the local grape varieties.
• Wine and Food: Six premium wines, local bread, and olive oil — all included.
• Convenient Logistics: Pickup offered from Ericeira, support vehicle on hand, and a short 4-hour timeframe.
• Suitable for All Levels: The trail is gentle enough for most riders, with most of the ride off-road in a beautiful valley.
• Weather Dependent: The tour requires good weather; cancellations due to bad weather offer refunds or rescheduling.

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Starting Point in Ericeira

Your adventure kicks off in the small coastal town of Ericeira, famous for its surf breaks and lively seafood scene. Meeting at 2:00 pm, you’ll be greeted by your guides, Bruno and Marco, who earn high praise for their friendliness and helpfulness. The tour provides bike rental, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own gear — a plus for travelers unfamiliar with biking equipment or those flying into Portugal.

The Bike Ride: Easy Trails and Scenic Views

Once underway, the tour is designed for a range of skill levels. As we pedaled, we loved how the guides kept the pace comfortable, chatting about the surrounding landscape and local grape varieties. The route includes off-road tracks through vineyards, along rivers, and across farmland, offering a true taste of rural Portugal.

Most of the ride is in the valley, away from traffic, so it’s peaceful and scenic. The small scenic road section near the winery is mostly car-free, enhancing the relaxed atmosphere. During the ride, a support vehicle accompanies the group, providing assistance or a quick rest if needed.

The Picnic and Wine Tasting

Before arriving at the winery, the guides set up a small picnic — a delightful break with local bread, olive oil, and fresh produce. This pause gives everyone a chance to enjoy the scenery and recharge for the final stretch.

Reaching the winery, the highlight is the 6 premium wine tastings. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, you’ll learn about local grape varieties and wine production methods, enriching your appreciation for Portuguese wines. The tasting includes carefully selected wines, often praised for their quality and variety. As one reviewer noted, it’s a chance to enjoy fantastic wines alongside the countryside views and friendly company.

Return Journey

After the tasting, the support vehicle takes you back to Ericeira, allowing you to relax after the effort. The entire experience lasts approximately four hours, making it a perfect afternoon activity that leaves plenty of time for dinner or exploring the town further.

Authentic and Well-Reviewed

Our research confirms that this tour is consistently rated 5 out of 5 by travelers, with reviews praising the knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and excellent wine selection. One happy rider called it “a really, really great day,” highlighting the patience and friendliness of both guides. Others appreciated the organization and the top-quality bikes, making the activity accessible and enjoyable.

How This Tour Fits Into Your Portugal Trip

If you’re looking for a way to combine active sightseeing with cultural tasting, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for those wanting a relaxed pace, blending outdoor activity with the chance to learn about and taste Portugal’s finest wines. Perfect for groups, couples, or solo travelers, it’s a great way to see the countryside without the hassle of planning logistics yourself.

Keep in mind, the weather can impact the experience, but the flexible rescheduling or full refund policy offers peace of mind. It’s also good to note that the group size is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a personal feel and attentive guides.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This Wine Tasting Bike Tour is perfect for travelers who love scenic outdoor experiences but want the convenience of guided support. It’s especially suited for those intrigued by Portugal’s wine culture, eager to learn about local varieties, and interested in tasting high-quality wines in a relaxed setting. The combination of easy biking, beautiful landscapes, and authentic wine tasting makes it a memorable, culturally rich activity.

It’s a particularly good fit if you’re staying in Ericeira or Cascais and want a half-day escape into the countryside. The modest price includes everything from bike rental to tastings, offering excellent value for a well-organized, authentic adventure.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from Ericeira, and the return is via support vehicle, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 4 hours, from start at 2 pm to return in Ericeira.

What skill level is needed?
The route is suitable for all skill levels, with mostly off-road, easy trails. The guides keep the pace comfortable.

Are the bikes suitable for beginners?
Yes, the bikes are described as high quality, and the route is designed to be accessible for most riders.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for biking, and bring sun protection or rain gear depending on the weather forecast.

Can I participate if I don’t drink wine?
Absolutely, you can enjoy the scenery, the picnic, and the company without participating in the tastings.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Most travelers can participate, so families with children should check with the provider in advance for age restrictions.

What happens if it rains?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in a group?
Groups are limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

What’s the cancellation policy?
The booking is non-refundable, so plan accordingly or consider weather considerations when booking.

In The Sum Up

For anyone seeking a relaxed outdoor activity that combines scenic beauty with cultural tastings, this Wine Tasting Tour from Ericeira offers a thoughtful and enjoyable experience. You’ll love the friendly guides, the stunning views, and the opportunity to taste Portugal’s excellent wines amidst charming landscapes. It’s ideal for those who want to indulge their senses while exploring Portugal’s lesser-known countryside in a casual, well-organized way.

Whether you’re a wine lover, a cycling enthusiast, or simply someone eager to discover Portugal beyond the usual tourist spots, this tour provides a genuine taste of the country’s rural charm. The thoughtful balance of activity, relaxation, and education makes it a standout choice for a memorable day out.

Ready to combine cycling with wine tasting? This tour is a smart, enjoyable way to experience Portugal’s countryside, flavor, and hospitality all in one go.