The best road cycling routes around Pico
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(34)
703
riders
37
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Road cycling routes around Pico offer diverse terrain across a volcanic landscape, dominated by Mount Pico, Portugal's highest peak. The island features extensive lava fields, unique vineyard landscapes, and a long volcanic ridge with numerous lakes and ponds. Roads often wind through coastal areas, past basalt formations, and through areas with lush flora. These physical features provide varied challenges and scenic backdrops for road cyclists.
Best road cycling routes around Pico
- The most popular road cycling route is View of…
Last updated: July 4, 2026
54
riders
73.2km
03:49
1,370m
1,370m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
11
riders
121km
05:37
1,280m
1,280m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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11
riders
49.2km
02:22
550m
550m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
9
riders
47.0km
02:38
1,010m
1,010m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5
riders
24.0km
01:09
310m
310m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Tips from the Community
The Cathedral of Braga, the oldest archdiocese in Portugal
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The Cathedral of Braga (Portuguese: Sé de Braga) is one of the most important monuments in the city of Braga in the north of Portugal. As the seat of the Archbishop of Braga, it is the oldest cathedral in Portugal and is one of the most important buildings in the country due to its history and artistic significance[1]. It offers a rich mix of architectural and artistic styles.
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The Cathedral of Braga (Portuguese: Sé de Braga) is one of the most important monuments in the city of Braga in the north of Portugal. As the seat of the Archbishop of Braga, it is the oldest cathedral in Portugal and is one of the most important buildings in the country due to its history and artistic significance[1]. It offers a rich mix of architectural and artistic styles.
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One of the oldest bridges to cross the Cávado River. It can now only be crossed on foot or by bicycle.
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Braga Cathedral (Portuguese: Sé de Braga) is one of the most important architectural monuments in the city of Braga in northern Portugal. As the seat of the Archbishop of Braga, it is the oldest cathedral in Portugal and, due to its history and artistic significance, is one of the most important buildings in the country. It offers a rich blend of architectural and artistic styles. Source: Wikipedia
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Cafe in the Historic District
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According to tradition, the diocese of Braga dates back to the 3rd century, although historical confirmation dates back to 400. This makes it one of the oldest dioceses on the Iberian Peninsula. It is considered the center of the Christianization of Gallaecia, as the region in northwestern Spain and northern Portugal was called. When Rome's power was dismantled by invading Germanic tribes, Braga became the capital of the Kingdom of the Suebi from 409 to 584. Through the influence of Bishop Martin of Dumio, the Suebi converted to Catholicism around 550. Martin of Dumio had come to Gallaecia at this time and first founded a monastery in Dumio near Braga. He became Bishop of Dumio in 556 and finally Bishop of Braga in 562. However, the Suebi kingdom fell under Visigothic control and was incorporated into the Visigothic Empire in 585. Braga's importance subsequently declined. After the Moorish conquest of the Iberian Peninsula from 711 to 719, Braga lost its bishopric in 716. As a result of the Reconquista, the Christian reconquest, the Diocese of Braga was re-established around 1070. Bishop Dom Pedro, bishop of the diocese from 1071 to 1091 and the first archbishop, had a cathedral built, which was consecrated in 1089 by Bernard of Toledo. At that time, however, only the eastern chapels were finished. The present cathedral was built on the site of an older religious building, possibly an earlier cathedral. Despite the restoration of the Diocese of Braga, the city never managed to regain its former importance. Next to Toledo, which was declared the new metropolis by Urban II and was the residence of the Kingdom of Castile from 1087 and remained the capital of Spain until 1561, there was no room for Braga as a metropolis. Since Bishop Dom Pedro had himself awarded the pallium by Antipope Clement III in 1091, the former capital of Braga continued to decline in importance. Bishop Dom Pedro was deposed and banished to a monastery. From 1093 onwards, the County of Portugal was ruled by Count Henry of Burgundy, who, together with Bishop Geraldo de Moissac, persuaded the Pope to reinstate Braga as an archbishopric in 1107. Construction work on the cathedral resumed and continued until the mid-13th century. The building, constructed in the 12th century, was designed in the Burgundian Romanesque style of the Abbey Church of Cluny and influenced the construction of many churches and monasteries in Portugal. The cathedral was frequently altered in the following centuries. Today, it features a mixture of different architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Manueline. In 1905, Pope Pius X granted the cathedral the additional title of minor basilica. Source: Wikipedia
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The Sé de Braga Cathedral is one of the most important architectural monuments in the city of Bragal. As the seat of the Archbishop of Braga, it is the oldest cathedral in Portugal and is one of the most important buildings in the country due to its history and artistic significance. According to tradition, the diocese of Braga dates back to the 3rd century.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available on Pico Island?
Pico Island offers a diverse network of over 35 road cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, from moderate loops to challenging ascents, allowing cyclists to explore the island's unique volcanic terrain, coastal roads, and vineyard landscapes.
What is the best time of year for road cycling on Pico Island?
The ideal seasons for road cycling on Pico Island are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). During these periods, you'll experience mild temperatures and minimal rainfall, creating perfect conditions for exploring the island's scenic routes.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or less experienced riders on Pico?
Yes, Pico Island has options for all skill levels. While many routes are challenging, there are 3 easy routes and 15 moderate routes available. These offer a great way to experience the island's beauty without overly demanding climbs.
What kind of scenery can I expect while road cycling on Pico Island?
Pico's road cycling routes offer breathtaking and diverse scenery. You'll ride through extensive lava fields, locally known as lajidos, and unique UNESCO World Heritage vineyard landscapes with their distinctive basalt stone corrals. Expect dramatic coastal views with dark grey basalt cliffs, crystal blue waters, and roads often flanked by vibrant hydrangeas and Japanese cedars. The towering Mount Pico provides a constant, majestic backdrop.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. Pico is known for its challenging terrain, with 20 difficult routes available. These often feature significant elevation changes and extensive distances. For example, the View of the Caniçada Dam – Ponte do Porto loop from Bico is a difficult 45.3-mile route with over 1,300 meters of elevation gain, offering a demanding experience.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling on Pico Island?
The road cycling experience on Pico is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the island's varied terrain, the stunning volcanic and coastal scenery, and the unique cultural landscapes like the vineyards. The diverse routes offer something for every cyclist, from scenic coastal rides to challenging mountain ascents.
Can I find loop trails for road cycling on Pico Island?
Yes, many of Pico's road cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Eiffel Bridge – View of Esposende loop from Ponte, a challenging 75.3-mile route, or the more moderate Ecovia do Rio Este – Bridge over the Labriosque River loop from Vila Verde, which is 30.3 miles long.
What interesting places can I see along the road cycling routes on Pico Island?
While cycling, you can encounter various points of interest. Some routes might pass near historical sites like the Roman Milestone XVIII on the Via Romana XVIII (Geira) or offer views of natural monuments such as the Eucalyptus of Moure. You might also cycle past charming bridges like Ponte do Porto or along the Ecovia of the Lima River: Ponte de Barca.
Are there any natural attractions or landmarks to explore near the cycling routes?
Beyond the routes themselves, Pico offers several natural attractions. The island features a long volcanic ridge with numerous lakes and ponds, such as Lagoa do Capitão, offering panoramic views of Mount Pico. You can also find natural bathing sites and the impressive Gruta das Torres, one of the longest lava tubes in the Azores and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Can I find routes that offer a mix of coastal and inland scenery?
Yes, many routes on Pico seamlessly blend coastal and inland landscapes. You can start with a ride along the dramatic coastline, then venture inland through the unique vineyard landscapes and past volcanic formations. The island's compact size and diverse topography make it easy to experience both the rugged coast and the lush interior on a single ride.
What are the typical distances and elevation gains for road cycling routes on Pico?
The routes on Pico vary significantly in distance and elevation. You can find shorter, moderate rides like the Poça longa – Poça das Regadas loop from Ponte, which is about 29 miles (47 km) with over 1,000 meters of elevation gain. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Guia Park – Ponte da Barca Bridge loop from Ponte, can span over 60 miles (98 km) with more than 1,300 meters of climbing.
Most popular routes around Pico
Most popular attractions around Pico
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