The best motorcycle roads in Spain and Portugal
The short answer
The best motorcycle roads in Portugal are the N222 through the Douro Valley (27 km from Peso da Régua to Pinhão), the Serra da Estrela climb to Torre (1,993 m) and the N2, Portugal's longest road at about 739 km. In Spain, ride the Picos de Europa, the A-397 from Ronda to the coast, and the Pyrenees. Spring and autumn are best.
The Iberian peninsula has warm weather, empty mountain roads and a lot of great food at the end of each day.
At a glance
| Road | Country | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| N222, Peso da Régua to Pinhão | Portugal | 27 km of curves along the Douro river |
| Serra da Estrela to Torre | Portugal | Mainland Portugal's highest point |
| N2, Chaves to Faro | Portugal | The whole country, north to south |
| Picos de Europa | Spain | Gorges, green mountains, Desfiladero de la Hermida |
| A-397, Ronda to San Pedro de Alcántara | Spain | Mountain to the Mediterranean |
N222: the Douro Valley
The 27 km between Peso da Régua and Pinhão wind along the Douro river through terraced vineyards. It's often called one of the best driving roads in the world. Ride it slowly, and stop at a quinta for lunch.
Serra da Estrela
The road to Torre, the highest point in mainland Portugal at 1,993 m, climbs from Covilhã or Seia through granite and glacial valleys. Combine it with the N339 and the Zêzere valley.
The N2
Estrada Nacional 2 runs about 739 km from Chaves in the north to Faro on the Algarve, through the quiet interior. It's a two- to four-day ride, with kilometre stones to collect along the way.
Picos de Europa
In Spain's north, the Picos are green, steep and full of gorges. The Desfiladero de la Hermida follows a river through a narrow canyon, and the climb over San Glorio (1,609 m) is a favourite. The weather comes off the Atlantic, so pack rain gear.
Ronda and Andalucía
From Ronda, the A-397 drops to San Pedro de Alcántara on the coast through smooth, flowing bends. Add the roads through the Sierra de Grazalema for a full day in Andalucía's white villages.
Season
Spring and autumn are best. Summer inland regularly goes past 35 °C. The Picos and Pyrenees ride well in summer.
Questions riders ask
What is the N222 in Portugal?
A 27 km road along the Douro river between Peso da Régua and Pinhão, famous for its curves and vineyard views.
How long is the N2 in Portugal?
About 739 km, from Chaves in the north to Faro in the south.
When is the best time to ride in Spain?
April to June and September to October. July and August are very hot in the south and centre.