Global Motorcycle Tours

TOUR INFORMATION

In order to fit with the ferry schedule the tour itinerary below is based on departing Plymouth on a Sunday and arriving back in the UK on a Friday 13 days later. Other crossings are available but may mean spending two nights onboard the ferry on the outbound crossing. If the Sunday crossing is not an option for you then please contact us for more details.

This tour contains no particular high mileage days and therefore would be suitable for anyone. The riding as always can be challenging but if you are an experienced rider or if you are a competent first timer this tour should not present a problem. Filled with amazing biking roads, incredible scenery and superb accommodation this tour offers a unique motorcycle touring experience.

TOUR ITINERARY

Day 1:

This outstanding self-guided tour begins as you board the flagship of the Brittany ferries fleet, the Pont Aven. With several restaurants, bars and a cinema this is the perfect place to relax as you sail overnight across the Bay of Biscay to the port of Santander.

Day 2: 85 Miles

Your afternoon arrival in Santander allows you plenty of time to enjoy today’s route as soon after clearing the ferry port you are riding a stunning mountain pass surrounded by the Picos and Saja-Besaya National Parks. Tonight’s Parador hotel is no less stunning as its elevated position affords views of the Fuentes Carrionas natural park, the waters of the Ruesga reservoir and the famous Picos de Europa mountains.

Day 3: 180 miles

Today’s ride has more of a relaxed feel as you cross the rolling hills and sweeping plains of the Castilla y Leon region of Spain. Later in the day the roads become more adventurous as you rides through the Sierra de la Culebra and Serra de Montesinho national parks and enter Portugal.  

Situated in the Nogueira Mountain Range your Pousada hotel for the evening offers an outdoor swimming pool as wellas panoramic views of the Medieval Walled City and Castle. Although the hotel boasts a Michelin stared restaurant it is well worth the short walk into the local town to experience authentic Portuguese cuisine.

Day 4: 155 miles

Suitably refreshed your onward journey now continues through the superb Serra de Montesinho Mountain range before joining the N221 which runs along the border of Spain & Portugal. This road is guaranteed to be one of the best you will ever have ridden and one that you will remember for a very long time. The fabulous roads continue as you eventually reach your hotel which is located in a small town on the outskirts of the Serra Da Estrela National Park.

Day 5: 150 miles

Today you start your journey across Portugal to the famous wine producing city of Porto and what better way than beginning with a fantastic ride through the northern section of the Serra Da Estrela National Park. Continuing your journey you cross the Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro region which encompasses a variety of landscapes, including Mountains, valleys, and vineyards. Eventually you will arrive at the terraced vineyards along the Douro River which will guide you directly to the city of Porto. With roots dating back to Roman times Porto, also known as Oporto, is Portugal's second-largest city and one of its most iconic and culturally rich destinations. Whether you're exploring its historic districts, sipping on Port wine, or indulging in its culinary delights, Porto is a destination that captivates visitors with its rich heritage and vibrant spirit. Your hotel for the next two nights is located just a short distance from the main promenade with numerous bars and restaurants and of course the famous Dom Luís I Bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel.

Day 6:

Today is a rest day in order for you to relax or explore more of this fascinating city.

Day 7: 180 miles

Leaving Porto you take a short Autoroute journey before winding north through the Peneda-Gerês and Serra Do Xurés National Parks. You are on your way to the end of a very long journey for some people. This is Santiago da Compostela which is the final destination for everyone who has walked the Camino de Santiago or as it is better known ‘the Pilgrim Trail’. The pilgrim trail is a network of routes that have been travelled by pilgrims for centuries, converging on Santiago de Compostela, where it is believed that the remains of St. James the Apostle are buried. Although due to availability the hotel used in Santiago may change our preferred choice would an excellently located 5 star hotel close to the Cathedral and Old Quarter.

Day 8: Supplied Ride-Out 130 miles

Ride or Rest Day: Although a ride out is supplied which takes you out to the Galician coastline you are of course free to decide your own itinerary.

Day 9: 155 miles

Be prepared to see many pilgrims today as you head east along the famous Camino de Santiago. The route today is a mix of two worlds as you go from long sweeping roads to the winding remoteness a national park reserve in the Principality of Asturias. The area is home to brown bears, wolves and otters as well as numerous bird species and is as remote as it is beautiful so ensure you have filled your petrol tanks before entering as service stations just do not exist here. This is a stunning part of Spain and a place you will long remember. At the end of an outstanding day you will need an outstanding hotel and the Parador located in an 11th century monastery fits the bill perfectly.   

Day 10: 120 miles

Departing the Parador hotel more stunning motorcycle roads await as you make your way towards tonight’s destination, the Picos de Europa National Park. The Picos de Europa, which translates to "Peaks of Europe," is a major attraction for motorcyclist and with breathtaking mountain landscapes, towering peaks, deep valleys and lush forests it certainly lives up to its name. Located in the center of a small village and overlooked by the surrounding Mountains the hotel features an outdoor swimming pool and and is just yards from local tapas bars and restaurants.

Day 11: Supplied Ride-Outs 120 miles

Ride or Rest Day: A ride-out is supplied in your tour pack which takes in the best of this truly stunning motorcycling destination.

Day 12: 70 miles

Today’s low mileage allows you a more relaxed ride as you witness the contrast between the mountainous terrain of the Picos de Europa and the beautiful Bay of Biscay coastline. Your final destination is the ferry port of Santander and your overnight crossing back to the UK.

Day 13:

Arrive Plymouth.

INSURANCE
It is recommended that all clients take out appropriate Personal Travel, Accident and Breakdown cover. This is essential for repatriation of yourself and your motorcycle in the event of an accident or medical emergency.

"Just wanted to say that once again we had an excellent trip. Excellent routes, roads and hotels. As always much appreciated

We’ll be in touch for next year"  

Mehul ~ Spain & Portugal SG Tour 2023

"Just a short email to say thank you for arranging our tour for us.

Once again you exceeded expectation, fantastic routes and hotels."
Nigel ~ Picos de Europa SG Tour 2023