Portugal

The Programme

Day One: Redditch to Portsmouth (150 miles)

Overnight ferry crossing sharing twin cabin accommodation included.
You are free to meet the RMT instructors either at their office in Redditch, en-route to the ferry in Portsmouth or at the port itself. During the ferry crossing, you will have the first of many training sessions for your advanced riding programme. There is also the chance to meet and socialise with the other members in the group.

Day Two: Santander to Guardo, Spain (105 miles)

B&B included
Disembark the ferry at Santander and travel down through Northern Spain winding your way along the spectacular roads in the Cantabrian Mountains to Guardo, where we will be staying for the first night; this is a short journey due to the late arrival time in Spain.

Day Three: Guardo to Guarda, Portugal (300 miles)

B&B included
Ride from Guardo on twisty scenic roads South towards ‘Serra de Estrela’ mountain range in Portugal.  This is the first full day of guidance and tuition on the continent.  Group and individual riding will be assessed and advice given throughout the day.  We will stay over in a comfortable hotel to unwind and finish off the evening at a fine Portuguese restaurant.

Day Four: Guarda to Alvor (300 miles)

B&B included
Ride from Guarda on some fantastic roads through the mountains, then South across the flatter Alentejo region towards the West Coast of the Alagarve, before finally reaching our destination. Winding your way south, taking in some breathtaking views, you will be spending the next few days in the sleepy fishing village of Alvor.

Day Five: Alvor

B&B included
Once settled, we will explore the local area and take a trip to Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, commonly referred to as Portimao Race Circuit, said to be one of the best racing circuits in Europe, in a wonderful setting at the base of the Monchique Hills. Then enjoy the rest of the day sightseeing, taking in places like ‘The End of the World’ (Cape St Vincent) before heading up the West Coast overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, where surfers head in their droves to catch the waves on this rugged coastline.

Day Six: Alvor (Free Day)

B&B included
On this day, you can opt to spend some time on the beach, do a bit of sightseeing or alternatively have a free day to ride around the Algarve putting into practise some of the techniques you will have learnt.

Day Seven: Alvor

B&B included
Start from the picturesque fishing village of Alvor to ride inland through the beautiful scenery of ‘The Monchique Hills’ where you will almost be transported back in time.  The twisty roads are a joy to ride as you work your way to one of the finest restaurants in the hills for an amazing local dish of chicken piri-piri for lunch. Finish the day basking by the pool in preparation for the ride home.

Day Eight: Alvor to Guarda (350 miles)

B&B included
Travelling North through the plains of the Alentejo, covered with olive trees and vineyards, you will once again see the beauty of the region. Lunch will be taken at one of the local Alentejo restaurants where the food can only be described as “delicioso”. Our route continues north until we reach Guarda for the second time.

Day Nine: Guarda to Santander (350 miles)

Overnight ferry crossing sharing twin cabin accommodation included.
The last part of the tour is the fast road back from Guarda which takes you through some breathtaking views over the Cantabrian Mountain range in Spain. You will arrive at the Port of Santander and sample the flavours of the Spanish food before boarding the ferry for the overnight crossing back to Portsmouth. Whilst on the ferry you will have your final appraisal and de-brief for your future training and development. You will also receive advice on booking an advanced test when back in the UK, if you so wish.

Day Ten: Arrive back in Portsmouth

You can decide to ride back home either with the group or at your leisure.

The Cost

Single Rider £1,299
Deposit required at time of booking (non refundable) £300.
Prices are subject to change.

The price includes:

• Advanced Rider Training
• Return ferry crossing
• Twin cabin accommodation on both crossings
• 7 nights B&B or apartment accommodation
• Radio equipment available for hire (recommended)
• Guided tours around the Algarve
• Restaurants booked for you at destinations

You will need additional money for lunch, dinner, fuel or anything else you would like to purchase whilst away. Please check with your insurance company that you are covered for riding in Europe, it is prudent to have breakdown and medical cover.

The tour is limited to a maximum of ten people, so please book early to avoid disappointment. A full itinerary, course training programme and routes will be issued once you enrol.