Trails in Portugal
 

Does anyone have any information about trail riding in Portugal? In which areas can the most unsealed roads be found? Is it legal to ride them?

Thanks.

Hi Ian

Trail riding is excellent in Portugal. The whole country is full of trails which are mostly rideable as there is a 'right to roam' law due to the hunting lobby. Recently some restrictions have been imposed due to the problems with forest fires over the last few years but these only apply in high summer and only in certain areas.

I would say the best areas to ride are in the north around the Douro valley, central Portugal in the Serra de Estrella (near to where the Portugal HU meeting is being held) and the Alentejo. There is even good riding in the Algarve if you get away from the tourist resorts. I run a small trail riding company in the Alentejo - check out www.endurorepublic for more info.

Best Wishes

David

Hi Ian

I strongly recommend you put in contact with the portuguese club Nomad's. They have a forum here. You can ask them for routes in whole Portugal, from sandy to rocky trails. It's possible that you get some tracks or company to do it.

By the way, in september there is a HU meeting in Portugal. Interesting opportunity to go there.

Cheers
enrique