The best road cycling routes around Ordem

The komoot community has mapped over 90 road cycling routes around Ordem. These routes cater to various skill levels, from moderate loops to more challenging long-distance rides.

Road cycling around Ordem, near Lousada in Portugal, features a diverse landscape. You'll encounter rolling hills, picturesque river valleys, and agricultural areas, including vineyards. The terrain offers a mix of flatter sections, particularly along rivers, and more challenging climbs through the hills.

Yes, Ordem offers routes suitable for various abilities. While many routes involve some ascents, there are moderate options available. For example, the Senhor dos Aflitos Chapel – Bust of Miguel Sousa Tavares loop from Lousada is a moderate 19.9-mile path with a mix of ascents and descents through local communities, which could be a good option for those looking for a less strenuous ride.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Ordem are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the challenging Parish Church – Sousa River Mouth loop from Figueiró and the moderate Senhor dos Aflitos Chapel – Vizela Castle loop from Cernadelo e Lousada (São Miguel e Santa Margarida).

The region offers several points of interest. You might encounter historical sites like Vizela Castle or the Monastery of Santa Maria de Pombeiro. Routes often follow river valleys, providing scenic views, and you can also explore natural areas like Vizela Thermal Park or the Rio Vizela Boardwalks.

The region around Porto, including Ordem, generally experiences mild winters and warm, dry summers. Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) are often considered ideal for road cycling, offering pleasant temperatures and less rainfall. Summers can be hot, especially inland, while winters are mild but can be wetter.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Ordem offers routes with significant elevation gains. The Parish Church – Sousa River Mouth loop from Figueiró is a difficult 67.9-mile route with over 1400 meters of elevation gain, following the Sousa River and offering varied terrain. Another challenging option is the Tower of the Alcoforados – Aqueduto dos Arcos loop from Plaina, a 65.2-kilometer difficult route with over 900 meters of climbing.

The road cycling routes in Ordem are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 23 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscape, which includes rolling hills, river valleys, and rural villages, providing a varied and engaging riding experience.

As routes often traverse through rural villages and local communities, you will likely find opportunities for refreshments in towns like Lousada. For accommodation, the wider region around Porto offers numerous options, from guesthouses in smaller towns to hotels in larger centers, catering to various budgets and preferences for cyclists.

While Ordem itself offers routes up to 67.9 miles, the broader Porto region is a hub for longer cycling adventures. You can connect to established routes like the Atlantic Ring Route or plan multi-day journeys traversing rural landscapes and river valleys towards other cities in Portugal.

Several routes pass by historical landmarks. The Senhor dos Aflitos Chapel – Vizela Castle loop from Cernadelo e Lousada (São Miguel e Santa Margarida), for instance, leads directly past Vizela Castle. You might also encounter other religious buildings and historical structures characteristic of the region's rich heritage.

Yes, river valleys are a defining feature of the landscape around Ordem. The Parish Church – Sousa River Mouth loop from Figueiró is a prime example, following the Sousa River and offering scenic views and varied terrain along its banks.