Velo Performance U23 tEAM & N2 ROAD EXPERIENCE
The National 2 Road (N2) is Portugal’s longest road and one of only three in the world that cross an entire country—alongside Route 66 (USA) and Ruta 40 (Argentina).
Our N2 Challenge will take us on an epic 738km journey from Chaves (Trás-os-Montes) to Faro (Algarve) in just 5 days. We’ll kick off at the KM0 marker in Chaves and ride south, crossing stunning landscapes, until we reach the iconic KM738 roundabout in Faro.
To make it even more special, you will be joined by the Velo Performance U23 Racing Team for an unforgettable cycling challenge!
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN YOUR CYCLING HOLIDAY PACKAGE?
LOCAL GUIDES
A team of professional local guides will be with your group during the entire trip.
HOTEL ACCOMODATION
We choose the best friendly cyclist hotels to accomodate you during your trip.
HALF BOARD ACCOMODATION
Breaksfast every morning at the hotel and dinner in selected portuguese cuisine restaurants.
AIRPORT TRANSFERS
We will arrange the transfers to and from the airports - Porto (arrival) and Faro (departure).
SUPPORT CAR
A support vehicle will be with you for the duration on of the trip.
DEDICATED TEAM
We are passionate about cycling. We will assist you in all you need.
RIDE PORTUGAL IN IT'S LENGTH
The N2 Challenge is more than just a cycling trip—it’s an immersive journey through Portugal’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and world-renowned gastronomy. Spanning 738km from Chaves to Faro, this adventure takes you through some of the country’s most iconic regions. This challenge it’s about experiencing Portugal in its most authentic form. From the first pedal stroke in Chaves to the final sprint in Faro, the N2 Challenge is a once-in-a-lifetime cycling experience.
YOUR GUIDE TO A PERFECT CYCLING EXPERIENCE
Your adventure starts the moment you land in Porto, one of Portugal’s most vibrant and historic cities. From here, you’ll be transferred north to Chaves, the gateway to the legendary N2 road. As the journey unfolds, anticipation builds the landscapes shift, the excitement grows, and soon you’ll arrive at the starting point of an unforgettable challenge. Upon reaching Chaves, you’ll be welcomed at the hotel by Velo Performance, where final preparations take place. This is your chance to soak in the atmosphere, get to know your fellow riders, and make those last-minute adjustments before the real journey begins. With the iconic KM0 marker just around the corner, the adventure of a lifetime is about to start! 🚴♂️🔥
Chaves – Peso da Régua: Your journey begins in Chaves, a historic town known for its Roman heritage and thermal springs, marking the KM0 of the legendary N2 road. From here, you’ll head south through rolling landscapes and charming villages, following the curves of the Douro River. The stage finishes in Peso da Régua, the heart of the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its terraced vineyards and world-famous Port wine. Here, breathtaking scenery and a deep-rooted winemaking tradition make for an unforgettable end to the day’s ride.
Peso da Régua – Santa Comba Dão: Leaving Peso da Régua, you’ll ride through the heart of the Douro Valley, surrounded by its iconic terraced vineyards and breathtaking river views. As you head south, the landscape begins to shift from steep, dramatic hills to the rolling countryside of Central Portugal. The route takes you through charming villages and past historic landmarks, offering a true taste of Portugal’s rich heritage. The day’s ride ends in Santa Comba Dão, a picturesque town nestled along the Mondego River, known for its serene atmosphere, traditional architecture, and connection to Portugal’s past.
Santa Comba Dão – Sertã: Departing from Santa Comba Dão, the route takes you deeper into the heart of Central Portugal, where rolling hills and lush forests create a stunning backdrop for the ride. As you pedal south, you’ll pass through historic villages and quiet countryside roads, experiencing the region’s tranquil beauty. The stage finishes in Sertã, a charming town known for its scenic riverbanks, medieval bridges, and delicious local cuisine. Nestled among pine-covered hills, Sertã offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and gastronomy, making it an ideal stop on this incredible journey.
Sertã – Montargil: Leaving Sertã, the route continues south through the scenic landscapes of Central Portugal, where winding roads lead you past dense forests, rolling hills, and picturesque villages. As you approach the Alentejo region, the terrain begins to open up, revealing vast plains and the first glimpses of cork oak forests. The stage finishes in Montargil, a peaceful town known for its stunning Montargil Reservoir. This expansive lake, surrounded by nature, offers a serene and refreshing setting – perfect for unwinding after a long day on the bike.
Montargil – Aljustrel: Departing from Montargil, the ride takes you deeper into the Alentejo, where vast open landscapes, cork oak forests, and golden fields define the scenery. The roads here are long and rolling, offering a true sense of freedom as you pedal through one of Portugal’s most iconic regions. Along the way, you’ll pass through traditional whitewashed villages, experiencing the slower pace of life that makes Alentejo so unique. The stage finishes in Aljustrel, a historic town with a strong mining heritage, where the contrast between nature and industry tells the story of the region’s past.
Aljustrel – Faro: The final stage of the N2 Challenge begins in Aljustrel, where the vast plains of the Alentejo slowly give way to the rolling hills of the Algarve. As you head south, the landscape transforms – cork and olive trees make room for the rugged beauty of the Serra do Caldeirão, the last great challenge before the descent toward the coast. The journey culminates in Faro, the capital of the Algarve, where you’ll cross the finish line at the KM738 landmark. Surrounded by the stunning lagoons of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, Faro’s rich history, vibrant culture, and seaside charm provide the perfect setting to celebrate the completion of this epic ride across Portugal.
After an unforgettable journey across Portugal, the final day is all about reflection and travel. With memories of the N2 Challenge still fresh, you’ll make your way to the airport, taking in the last glimpses of the Algarve’s stunning landscapes. Whether it’s the sense of accomplishment from conquering 738km, the breathtaking scenery, or the friendships forged along the way, this adventure will stay with you long after the ride is over. As you head home, one thing is certain – Portugal’s legendary N2 road has left its mark, and the call of the open road will always be waiting for your return.
Maximize your trip
RENTAL BIKE
If you do not wish to bring your bike, we can arrange a rental bike for you. We work with a number of rental bike shops that will provide you with a bike that suits you.
SINGLE ROOM
If voud' like a whole room to yourself, that's no problem. For an extra cost for the trip duration, you can enjoy the comfort of your own room.
EXTRA NIGHT
To avoid unnecessary rush you can book an additional night (or as many as you wish) after the tour.
REQUESTS
If you have any specific requests for the duration of your trip please let us know so we can organise everything according to your wishes!
DISCOVER OUR TRIP, TOURS & EXPERIENCES
Algarve Cycling Holidays
The best cycling experience in the Algarve
N2 Road Experience
Ride the only European road that crosses the entire country
CAN’T SEE YOUR PERFECT TOUR IN PORTUGAL?
We specialise in designing epic cycling tours and we’re also happy to tweak an existing itinerary, or help you to create your own unique one! We also specialize in large groups if you are looking to accomodate a great number of people, we have it covered!