Riding with Sérgio: How I Discovered Portugal on a Motorcycle
Embarking on Portugal's Enchantment: A Chance Encounter Sparks a Dream.
In the fading glow of a BMW K 1600 Enthusiasts Facebook page, a serendipitous meeting with Sérgio in Lisbon set the wheels in motion for a journey that transcended the ordinary. This tale unfolds as a symphony of unexpected encounters, unveiling the hidden roads and captivating landscapes of Portugal. Join me as we navigate the twists of fate, ride through Sergio's playground, savor culinary delights, feel the magic of tailored rides, and ultimately, bask in the gratitude of a journey beyond expectations. This is not just a motorcycle tour; it's a captivating exploration of the heart and soul of Portugal with 2RidePortugal.
Left: Guy Myette. Right: Sérgio Lopes
How it started
About five and a half years ago we were planning a trip to Portugal . By chance one night I ran into a post on a motorcycle Face Book page, BMW K 1600 Enthusiasts. The guy was posting a sunset in Portugal and the bike in the picture was the same year and color as mine! So I commented that my wife and I were planning a trip to Portugal in September. He told me to look him up when we got to Lisbon. So I did and we met in the city one evening . He took us to a restaurant on a back street , off a back street, off a back street. A place where you or I on our own would probably never have found! During conversation at dinner Sergio expressed his desire to start a tour company. Immediately I raised my hand and told him I would like to be one of his clients! After (car)touring around Portugal for 2 weeks with my wife it crossed my mind several time how wonderful it would be to motorcycle tour here! I had planned to go back in a year but got caught up in other things, learned how to sail, and then Covid shut the world down. We just kind of sat out the next 3 years waiting for the world to return to somewhat normal. I stayed in touch with Sergio over that time via Facebook and messenger .
Finally! In May 2023, we were able to get back to Portugal. I left 6 days in advance of my wife and met Sérgio at my hotel. He took me to the rental place , LX Rent, in Lisbon where I picked up a 2022 BMW R1250 RT and off we went!
Sérgio's Playground: Exploring Portugal's Secrets
We headed north east about 3 hours to a small town named Cabeçadas where Sérgio has a house (and soon a biker B&B), this was base camp! The house was located near the Serra de Estrela mountains and the area became our personal playground for the next 3 and half days.
The roads were some of the most amazing roads I have ver been on. Twists and switch backs abounded . The actual quality of the pavement was superior to some of the oil slicked pavement in New England. Your tires seemed to grip better lending itself to use of the whole tire. The scenery and the vistas were nonstop with the turn of every curve and crest of the next hill or mountain top. We rode from early morning to late evening every day intermingled with stops to look at some ruins or eat lunch or just gaze at the mountain top views . One moment you could be standing in front of a 10th century christian church , the next looking at a 1st century old Roman arch to the next moment, standing amidst the 6000 years old megalithic ruins of the Dolmens! And Sérgio knew something about everything he showed us. He was quite well informed on multiple levels.
Culinary Delights: A Gastronomic Journey with Sérgio
In general , there is no bad wine or food in Portugal. Being with Sergio was next level due to the fact we were in his back yard. He knew the best places to hit for dining with the most authentic food and atmosphere. And because he knew the language ( in know Spanish, but Portuguese is not the same) he was able to help us navigate the menu and every meal was spectacular .
Through the Lens and the Ride: Sérgio's Unique Touring Alchemy
While riding, Sérgio tailored the trip based on our personal abilities and riding style. I personally tend to ride more aggressively and enjoy an “expeditious” pace most of the time, common sense prevailing. But at the same time , being a photographer, I find the need to strike a balance to stop and get that occasional shot. Sérgio always allowed time to do that!
In the evenings conversation rolled on through dinner and wine into the am hours of the morning . We covered all nature of topics from motorcycle, art , literature , culture, world events , personal relationships and on. I really began to know and understand this guy on other levels besides what his riding knowledge . He’s a real genuine human being who’s living a life of gratitude and compassion. And that passion certainly comes through with everything we did together.
Sérgio Lopes: Where Tours Transcend, and Expectations Ascend
If you’re looking for an intimate touring situation and you want all your expectations super sized , Sérgio Lopes is your Tour Guide!!! So thank you Sérgio Lopes and 2RidePortugal for a wonderful wonderful time. I am seriously looking forward to the next time I can come ride with you!
Echoes of Adventure: Gratitude Unleashed
In conclusion, my journey with 2RidePortugal unfolds as a symphony of gratitude. Each twist of the road, shared meal, and insightful conversation resonates in the melody of memories.
Thank you, Sérgio Lopes, for curating an unforgettable adventure through the soul-stirring landscapes of Portugal, leaving me eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this captivating tale.
