Start Point
ChavesFinish Point
FaroSupport Team
Fully Supported + Feed StationsStages
5 Fully GuidedLongest Stage
Stage 2: 175kmBiggest Climb Stage
Stage 2: 2,550m+Average Pace
14-19mph | 22-30kphPeloton Size: 20
Discover the ultimate Portuguese cycling challenge on the original N2 Challenge, an endurance bike ride designed to test your limits and provide an unparalleled cycling experience.
Prepare for five remarkable days riding through stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. Our fully guided and professionally supported cycling challenge ensures a unique journey from start to finish.
We take care of every detail, from carefully selected hotels, to airport and bike box transfers, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey. Each day begins with a buffet breakfast and a stage briefing, complete with an itinerary card and GPX maps to guide you through the day’s ride.
On each stage of this 738km journey, our qualified and experienced ride leaders will guide you through rugged mountaintops to serene valleys draped in vineyards, with support vehicles and the trusty Broom Wagon always at your service.
Team Volta’s dedicated support team ensure you are well stocked with energy bars and sports hydration as you immerse yourself in the charm and beauty of this captivating country.
Plus, our feed stations will help you recharge and refuel for the journey ahead.
In the evenings, indulge in a delicious dinner including wine. We even deliver your luggage to your room and provide kit laundry services to keep you fresh and ready for the next day’s adventure.
“It’s epic without being ridiculously savage, it’s as good as it gets.”
Yanto Barker : Founder Le Col
Are you ready for the ride of a lifetime?
What’s Included:
From airport transfers, support vehicles and feed stations to all accommodation and meals, we have you covered…
Stage Breakdown
1
PROLOGUE: TRANSFER PORTO AIRPORT
We will greet you at Porto Airport and transport you, along with your gear, to a historic hotel in the heart of Chaves. Post-assembly of your bikes, steal a moment to wander the town’s captivating historic center or spin your wheels with a brief ride.
As twilight beckons, gather for an informative safety briefing and team introduction, setting the stage for your upcoming adventures.
The evening will conclude with a delightful dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.
2
STAGE 1: CHAVES
175km | 2,550m+
108miles | 8300ft
Commence your remarkable journey from the iconic N2 0km marker stone in Chaves, traversing Portugal’s diverse landscapes.
These markers guide you through each kilometre, leading to Faro, where the N2 738km marker stone awaits.
Conquer the ascent of Col’ de Covelo before marveling at the UNESCO-listed Douro Valley. Brace yourself for the thrilling descent to the Douro River, followed by the challenging climb of Col’ de Lamego, boasting gradients of up to 14%.
After a day of adventure, find warmth and comfort in the medieval city of Viseu, where our handpicked hotel awaits your arrival.
3
STAGE 2: DÃO VALLEYS
160km | 2,400m+
100miles | 7800ft
Indulge in a hearty athlete’s breakfast, fueling up for a day of thrilling climbs and descents. Departing from Viseu’s cobbled streets, we navigate the N2’s winding route, passing charming villages and renowned Dão wineries.
Test your mettle at Col’ de Gois, tackling a challenging 16km ascent through fragrant mimosa forests, reaching 775m at its peak.
The exhilarating descent is matched only by the climactic ascent from the River Zezere gorge, offering a breathtaking vista of the majestic Cabril Reservoir.
Refresh your spirit, cool in the pool and replenish your energy at our carefully selected accommodations after an invigorating day on the road.
4
STAGE 3: RIBATEJO
125kms | 1,400+
77miles | 4600ft
Today’s stage offers a glimpse into a remote region where a solitary ascent leads to the captivating Geodesic Centre of Portugal.
Amidst the summer heat, frequent cafe stops and hydration stations ensure you stay refreshed. Traverse the evolving landscape as the N2 guides you into the vast expanse of Alentejo, revealing its timeless beauty.
Conclude your journey with a relaxing poolside finish or a rejuvenating dip in Montargil lake, offering the perfect respite after a day of exploration and adventure.
Experience the tranquillity of this region and savour every moment of your cycling journey through Portugal’s heartland.
5
STAGE 4: ALENTEJO
162km | 1,550+
100miles | 5100ft
Pedal through Alentejo’s timeless landscape, where ancient cork oaks punctuate the rolling plains, standing as sentinels of Portugal’s heartland.
As we set off in the morning and follow the N2 deep into this sparsely populated region, anticipate roads that are fast, straight, and smooth—a cyclist’s dream, as Dr. Hutch once described them, “devoid of traffic.”
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this untouched terrain, where the only sounds are the gentle hum of tires on tarmac and the rustle of leaves in the breeze.
Experience the sheer joy of cycling through Portugal’s pristine countryside.
6
STAGE 5: ALGARVE
120km | 1,300+
75miles | 4250ft
Following a serene night embraced by Alentejo, you’ll be poised for the grand finale.
Stage 5 transcends mere cycling; it’s a crescendo of a symphony, acclaimed by many as the pinnacle of the N2 Challenge.
Whether it’s the road’s seamless path, the solitude of the journey, or the pivotal climb into the Algarve that stirs your soul, Stage 5 leaves an unforgettable mark.
As the journey culminates, carry not just the pride of completion, but a tapestry of stories to share, making Stage 5 an indelible chapter in your cycling saga.
7
DEPARTURE: TRANSFER FARO AIRPORT
After a relaxing night in the heart of Faro, morning transfers to Faro Airport will bid you farewell, but not goodbye, as we anticipate your return for another exhilarating ride.
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James McCarthy
"The N2 Challenge is a must for any keen cyclist. You must be prepared for endurance, climbs and day after day 100mile stages. An experience of a lifetime..."
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Daniel Wright
"Five epic daily adventures all rolled into one magical week long tour..."
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Tony Crombie
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Robert Tagg
"Superb experience all round. I loved the route and the challenge. Great to ride with lots of different people. Support crew were amazing..."
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John Smith
"When you take on a challenge with 26 other riders from all corners of the earth, you might..."
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Rob Evans
"I wasn't sure what to expect, a few of us knew each other and soon we all knew one another. Relaxed..."
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Vince Bowshall
"This is the best multi-day event I've been on. Adriano and everyone at Volta Pro Tours are passionate..."
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Gary Lyons
"I have just spent the most enjoyable week with all the great people at Volta Pro Tours doing..."
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Tom Bass
"Not just the best cycling experience of my life but one of the best experiences all round..."
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Martin Miesi
"Great company. Well organised, great accommodation with a stunning route, which all creates an amazing experience."