The best cycling routes around Nordeste

Nordeste offers incredibly diverse terrain for touring cyclists. You'll find thousands of kilometers of varied coastline with white sandy beaches, colorful cliffs, and natural pools. Inland, the landscape transitions to arid backlands, dramatic mountains, and unique ecosystems like vast sand dunes and freshwater lagoons. This variety means routes can range from flat coastal paths to challenging mountain climbs.

Yes, there are circular routes available. One popular option is the Povoação Harbor – Povoação loop from Furnas, which is 18.8 miles (30.2 km) long and takes about 2 hours 33 minutes to complete. Another loop is the Seven Arches Bridge – Historic Center of Nordeste loop from Nordeste, covering 42 km.

Many routes in Nordeste are considered difficult due to significant elevation gains. For example, the From Nordeste to Maia route is 52.4 miles (84.3 km) with substantial climbing, and the From Nordeste to Lagoa de Furnas route is 55.5 miles (89.3 km) with over 2,200 meters of ascent.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can encounter stunning features like the Prego Waterfall, the serene Blue Pool, and the unique Terra Nostra Thermal Pool. The Furnas Calderas and Hot Springs are also notable natural monuments to explore.

Yes, beyond natural sites, you can find cultural landmarks. The Sanguinho Village offers a glimpse into local life, and the Ponta do Arnel Lighthouse is a picturesque man-made monument with historical significance.

The Nordeste region experiences a rainy season from January to June, which is when the thousands of crystal-clear freshwater lagoons appear in areas like Lençóis Maranhenses. For touring cycling, the drier months outside of this period might offer more consistent weather, though the coastal areas generally have pleasant temperatures year-round. Always check local weather forecasts before your trip.

While many routes in Nordeste are rated as difficult, there is at least one moderate option: the Wonderful Beach – Ribeira Quente loop from Furnas. This route is 17.5 km long with a more manageable elevation gain, making it suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 1 review. Cyclists often praise the diverse coastlines, dramatic mountains, and unique dune and lagoon systems that define the region's routes, offering a wide range of experiences for all abilities.

Absolutely. The Nordeste region is famous for its otherworldly landscapes, particularly the vast white sand dunes and freshwater lagoons found in areas like Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. While direct cycling within the deepest dunes can be challenging, surrounding areas offer unique riding opportunities to experience these breathtaking scenes.

The Nordeste boasts thousands of kilometers of diverse coastline. Cyclists can traverse stretches of white sandy beaches, encounter colorful cliffs, and discover natural pools. Popular bikepacking trips span significant portions of the coast, taking you through charming old towns and past beautiful beaches. Some coastal roads even feature well-maintained cycle paths.

Yes, the varied terrain of Nordeste includes opportunities for off-road cycling. Routes in Bahia, such as those from Itacaré to Camamu, offer hilly and partly off-road experiences. The region around Natal is also known for its dunes and beaches, which can be suitable for off-road exploration.