Gran Diagonal

GranDiagonal takes riders on a 1,000 km journey across Portugal, connecting Caminha in the northwest with Vila Real de Santo António in the southeast. The route crosses the country from one Atlantic coastline to the other, passing through a remarkable variety of landscapes, from the mountainous north and central highlands to the open plains of the Alentejo and the warmer southern coast.

The course covers 1,000 km with approximately 16,500 metres of elevation gain. It follows predominantly secondary roads with relatively little traffic, favouring scenic routes through rural villages, mountain regions and open countryside. The changing terrain makes this more than a straightforward coast-to-coast crossing, with demanding climbs giving way to long stretches across Portugal’s interior.

Starting in Caminha, close to the Spanish border, riders travel south through the country’s diverse regions before reaching Vila Real de Santo António on the Algarve’s eastern edge. Along the way, the route showcases the contrasts between Portugal’s green northern landscapes, central mountain ranges and the expansive plains of the south.

GranDiagonal is designed for ultra-cyclists and bikepackers looking for a long-distance challenge across Portugal. The event combines endurance riding with the freedom to experience the country at a slower pace, following quieter roads far from the main tourist routes.

Distance: 1,000 km
Elevation gain: 16,500 m
Start: Caminha, Portugal
Finish: Vila Real de Santo António, Portugal
Direction: Northwest to southeast
Terrain: Predominantly paved secondary roads
Format: Ultra-distance road cycling / bikepacking adventure