Cycling tourism is one of the most popular and inexpensive types of active recreation. In this article, we will tell you everything we know about cycling tourism: its advantages, how to rent bike, and where to go if you are in Lisbon.
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ToggleFeatures of Cycling Tourism
Cycling tourism should not be confused with cycling; these are entirely different. You only need a desire and a bike to engage in cycling tourism. There is no severe physical exertion because you determine the route and duration of the walks. Therefore, absolutely any healthy person can go on a cycling tour.
Cycling Trips or Cycling Tourism?
Sport cycling tourism should be distinguished from cycling trips since it involves passing routes of different difficulty categories to obtain sports categories. For example, you can become a “master of sports” or “instructor of cycling trips” by submitting an application to the Federation of Sports Tourism of Portugal.
Cycling tourism as an active recreation allows you to combine sports and sightseeing of natural and cultural attractions.
Today, there are several types of cycling tourism โ cycling trips and cycling tours. The luggage of cycling tourists is transported in an accompanying car. During tours, cyclists eat in cafes and restaurants and stay overnight in campsites and hotels.
Participants in cycling trips are deprived of the above-mentioned benefits of civilisation since there are simply no food outlets in certain places along the route.
Advantages of Cycling Tourism
It should be noted that of all types of tourism, cycling tourism is the most profitable for several reasons:
- You can cover significant distances;
- Suitable for people of all ages;
- You create the route yourself, taking into account your interests;
- No need to buy fuel;
- It is an environmentally friendly type of transport.
And thanks to cycling trips, you can significantly strengthen the body:
- Normalise the work of the heart and respiratory system;
- Improve the functioning of the nervous system;
- Remove fat from the hips and buttocks;
- Reduce cellulite;
- Pump up the muscles of the legs, abdomen, and back.
If you want to lose weight by cycling, this article will help you. It reveals the secrets of losing weight during cycling workouts, gives advice on choosing a bike, and recommends convenient cycling routes.
When Going on a Bike Tour, Do Not Forget to Take Into Account Some Nuances:
- Bad weather can spoil the whole impression of the trip, so think over the length of the route, taking into account the weather forecast;
- Be prepared that the bike can break down or be stolen during a stop. Think in advance how you will continue the trip and what you will return home on;
- Do not forget about your safety โ follow the traffic rules.
How to Choose a Bike for Cycling Tourism?
There are no strict requirements for a bicycle for tourism since each traveller chooses a means of transportation, taking into account their preferences. But several recommendations have been tested during multiple bike rides:
- Reliable mountain bikes are suitable for mountain trips, and a bicycle with a steel frame is ideal for active bike rides over rough terrain.
- Adjust the height of the saddle to suit your height.
- Choose a wide handlebar with soft grips.
- The luggage rack should have strong mounts.
- It is worth buying wheels with double rims and strong spokes, protective fenders, flashing lights (front and rear), and a rear-view mirror for sports cycling.
Where to Go by Bike in Lisbon?
Many countries place significant emphasis on cycling tourism, and travel agency Bike&Ride organise special tours or rent bike for you in Cascais.
Lisbon is no exception.
This city is convenient for cycling. It has many well-maintained parks with bike parking, a developed network of bike paths along the picturesque embankments, and many historical places that every tourist dreams of visiting.
If you want to admire the sights of Lisbon during a bike ride but do not have time to search for suitable routes, this article will help you. For your convenience, we checked the city’s cycling infrastructure and compiled a list of relevant parks and historical places you will like!
Popular Cycling Destinations in Portugal:
- Lisbon โ Explore the city’s old streets, waterfronts, and cultural landmarks.
- Cascais โ Ride along the stunning coastline and enjoy the fresh ocean breeze.
- Sintra โ Cycle through the magical forests and visit breathtaking palaces.
- Douro Valley โ A scenic route through the famous wine region.