The N2 Route in Portugal: An Epic Ride from North to South

738 km of soul-stirring cycling across the length of Portugal

Often compared to the legendary Route 66, Portugal’s N2 – Estrada Nacional 2 – is a dream ride. Stretching from the spa town of Chaves in the north to the coastal hub of Faro in the Algarve, it crosses the country from top to bottom in one seamless, unforgettable line.

This is more than just a road. It’s a living atlas of Portugal’s landscapes, traditions and regional identities, connecting the rugged Trás-os-Montes highlands, the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley, the ochre plains of the Alentejo, and the sun-drenched hills of the Algarve.

If you’re looking for a cycling experience that’s rich in heritage, physically rewarding, and emotionally unforgettable – the N2 delivers.

Also read: Faro to Lisbon by bike – the coast-to-capital experience

What makes the N2 so special?

Unlike many loop-based cycling holidays, the N2 is a point-to-point linear adventure. Every day, you move forward. Every region brings a new atmosphere, a new flavour, a new rhythm.

Highlights along the N2:

• The remote mountains of Trás-os-Montes, wild and majestic
• The UNESCO-listed Douro Valley, where every bend brings a new postcard
• The rugged interior ranges of central Portugal – perfect for climbers
• The sunbaked serenity of the Alentejo, dotted with whitewashed villages
• The descent into the Algarve, where hills meet the Atlantic breeze

It’s not just a route – it’s a narrative on two wheels.

Fully customisable, for all levels and styles

At Baroudeur Cycling, we believe a legendary route should be open to every passionate rider – no matter their fitness level or cycling background.

That’s why we don’t offer fixed itineraries. Instead, we design your N2 journey with you, adjusting:

• Number of stages
• Daily distances
• Elevation gain
• Support level (guided, semi-guided or self-supported)
• Accommodation style
• Use of e-bike if needed

Most riders complete the route in 6 to 10 days, depending on pace and style. You can go lean and fast, or take your time to soak it all in. E-bikes are welcome, especially if you want to focus on scenery and culture without worrying about gradients.

Related: Tailor-made cycling holidays – your route, your rhythm, our local expertise

What you get with Baroudeur Cycling

• Flawless logistics: luggage transfers, tech support, mechanical assistance
• Elite-level guidance: experienced, multilingual cycling pros who know the terrain
• Curated routes: quiet, scenic segments of the N2 handpicked for cyclists
• Detailed GPS & roadbooks, with our signature “Emma-style” pre-ride checklists
• Top-tier accommodation: hand-selected, rider-friendly, and well placed
• Pro-level ride feel: you pedal, we handle the rest

Everything is built to maximise freedom, focus and flow on the bike.

The real power of the N2: a sensory and human journey

Cycling the N2 is more than a physical feat. It’s about:

• The scent of eucalyptus after the morning rain
• The sound of silence in an Alentejo village
• The first espresso of the day in a sleepy café
• The shared stories around the table after a long day in the saddle
• The satisfaction of feeling the entire country beneath your tyres

Bonus: you’ll collect stamps in your N2 Passport – one for each of the 35 towns you cross. A tangible, soulful memento of your journey across Portugal.

Ready to ride the full length of Portugal?

Join Baroudeur Cycling UK and let us craft a once-in-a-lifetime experience on the N2. Whether you're chasing personal challenge, slow adventure, or cultural immersion, we'll shape the journey that fits your ambition — and exceed it.

👉 Contact us to build your custom N2 itinerary
👉 Or explore our other iconic routes across Portugal

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