The best cycling routes around Covide

There are over 20 touring cycling routes around Covide. The majority of these, about 20, are considered difficult, while 5 are moderate. There are no easy routes specifically for touring cycling in this region.

Yes, many of the routes in Covide are designed as loops. For example, you can try the Ponte do Porto – Caniçada Reservoir loop from Gerês, which offers a challenging ride, or the Caniçada Reservoir – Tom Sawyer Treehouse loop from Campo do Gerês for another scenic option.

Covide's touring cycling routes are characterized by undulating terrain with significant elevation changes. You can expect climbs and descents, often traversing areas with reservoirs and rivers. Routes like the Vilarinho das Furnas Reservoir – Leonte Waterfall loop from Campo do Gerês feature over 800 meters of elevation gain, indicating a challenging ride.

The region is rich in natural beauty, particularly around its reservoirs and rivers. You might encounter stunning viewpoints like Miradouro da Pedra Bela overlooking the Rio Gerês reservoir, or discover waterfalls such as Fecha de Barjas Waterfall (Tahiti) and Tahiti Waterfall. The Blue Pool is another notable natural monument.

Absolutely. The landscape around Covide is defined by its reservoirs and rivers. Many routes offer views of or pass directly by these features. For instance, the Gerês Reservoir – Caniçada Reservoir loop from Vilar da Veiga connects two major reservoirs, and you can also find highlights like the Caniçada Dam and Vilarinho da Furna Dam.

The touring cycling routes in Covide are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 28 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic views of the reservoirs and rivers, the challenging yet rewarding terrain, and the opportunity to explore both natural and cultural points of interest like villages and border crossings.

While there are no routes specifically rated as 'easy' for touring cycling in Covide, some of the 'moderate' routes might be suitable for families with older, experienced children. These routes still involve some elevation changes. Always check the route details, including distance and elevation, to ensure it matches your family's ability.

Yes, some routes integrate cultural elements. The Campo do Gerês village – Porta do Homem Border Crossing loop from Campo do Gerês is a great example, leading you through a village and towards a historic border crossing, offering a blend of natural beauty and local culture.

Given the region's varied terrain and the presence of reservoirs and rivers, spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Covide, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be warm, especially on exposed sections, while winter might bring colder, wetter weather, making some routes more challenging.

While many routes are day trips, some offer a more extended challenge. For example, the Ponte do Porto – Caniçada Reservoir loop from Gerês is over 81 km (50 miles) long with significant elevation gain, making it suitable for experienced touring cyclists looking for a longer ride.

Yes, the region offers several stunning viewpoints. One highly recommended spot is the View from Miradouro da Pedra Bela overlooking the Rio Gerês reservoir, which provides expansive vistas of the water and surrounding landscape, perfect for a scenic break during your ride.