Lisbon by Bike

Here's an introductory cycle guide to Lisbon as told by our in-house bike fanatic, Stephen Latchem...

Famously the city of seven hills, cycling in Lisbon is not for the faint hearted… but, for those of you who have the calf capacity and psychological scope to battle the beastly inclines, we introduce Stephen Latchem, our Graphic Designer at Synopsis Practice and resident bicycle enthusiast. Freshly docked in Lisbon, Stephen has been getting to know the city on two wheels and already has lots to share in light of how to get your cycle legs in such a rolling region. We managed to track him down and stop him in his spin for just long enough to hear about the improved cycling infrastructure and most satisfying routes here.

Before anything else,would you tell us about what you’ve been riding here in Lisbon?

Well, I toyed with the idea of bringing my bike along with me from home but decided against it for a number of reasons. Mainly, I thought I’d take the opportunity to have a look around at a new array of Portuguese bikes. I’m really happy I did as I’ve ended up with this Orbita, a classic steel Portuguese model from the 1970’s which more accurately reflects an authentic experience of cycling in Portuguese terrain. I found it in Parque das Nações which is also a great spot for a cycle by the river.

What are your favourite routes to cycle?…             

Down next to the Tagus river there are loads of new cycle paths which run all the way from Parque das Nações through Belém and towards Cascais. That route in particular is one I would recommend to anyone as it’s a smooth ride, hugging the water throughout. For something more challenging and diverse, I’ve really enjoyed taking the green route which winds through the city and upwards to Monsanto Ecological Park. With that one, it's a challenge on the way up but worth it for the views and to whiz down through the greenery in Monsanto. In general, it's a great place to get lost in on a bike as there are so many hidden corners that you find whilst enjoying the sensation of smooth tarmac alternating with the more old school feel of cobbled roads.

What can you tell usabout the expansion of the cycling networks in Lisbon?

You can feel being here that it’s a city which eagerly encourages cyclists and proactively seeks to improve their experience. They already have 100km of cycle path in the city with more on the way. The access to city bikes is also great here which encourages even those without their own equipment to travel by bike and, hopefully, be sold on it as the best method of transport!

Thanks for the chat Stephen and enjoy the rest of your time on the road!