“Exploring Portugal by motorcycle is a true feast for the senses. The smell of the earth, the heat of the asphalt, the wind on your face, and the freedom to stop whenever and wherever you like.”
That’s how Rafaela describes her unforgettable journey along Portugal’s National Road 2
(shortened to EN2). It's a 738 km ribbon of asphalt stretching from Chaves in the far north to Faro on the southern coast. Known as Portugal’s answer to Route 66, the EN2 crosses 35 municipalities and 11 mountain ranges, offering a slow, immersive way to see the country.
For Rafaela, this wasn’t just a road trip. It was a ride through history, food, landscapes, and culture—and, like many riders who tackle the EN2, she made it even more special by embracing one beloved tradition: the EN2 Passport.
THE MAGIC OF THE EN2 PASSPORT
Before setting off, Rafaela stopped in Chaves to pick up her official EN2 Passport at the tourist office. Along the way, she stamped it at local cafés, scenic landmarks, museums, and even biker clubs—each mark a memory of the towns and people she encountered.
“This passport serves as a visual diary of the adventure and is almost like a medal for those who complete it.”
And she added her own personal touch along the way with a custom sticker, left at one of the many EN2 milestone markers, joining the colorful collection of travelers who’ve passed before her. It’s a small, symbolic gesture, but it connects you to a community of riders who’ve shared the same road.
FROM ROMAN BRIDGES TO MOUNTAIN TRAILS
Rafaela’s journey began in Chaves, near the Spanish border. Before rolling south, she crossed the Roman Trajan Bridge and treated herself to the city’s famous savory pastry—a flaky puff pastry filled with meat, a local specialty.
From there, the road curved dramatically through the Douro Valley near Vila Real, with breathtaking views over the terraced vineyards. She recommends making a route addition by riding the famous EN222, which runs east and west, and is known as one of the World's Best Driving Roads.
One of her favorite stops was Góis, known as the biker heart of the EN2. Nestled in the Serra da Lousã mountains, it’s home to the Moto Clube de Góis and Portugal’s biggest motorcycle rally. For any rider, it’s a place where the spirit of the road truly comes alive.
A TRUE TASTE OF PORTUGAL
Of course, no trip through Portugal is complete without incredible food. Rafaela made sure to savor the local specialties along the way:
- Maranhos and lamb stew in Sertã
- Tigelada Beirã, a traditional sweet dessert
- Rustic migas with pork ribs in Montemor-o-Novo
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And finally, fresh seafood cataplana and grilled fish in the Algarve
“If there’s one great thing in Portugal, it’s the food!”
Each dish was more than just a meal—it was a taste of the culture, the land, and the hospitality of the people she met along the way.
THE GEODETIC CENTER OF PORTUGAL
Midway through the EN2, Rafaela reached Vila de Rei, the exact geodetic center of Portugal. At Km 369, the journey’s halfway point, she climbed up to Picoto da Melriça for sweeping views over the heart of the country.
There’s even a small geodetic museum there, but the real highlight is standing at that spot and realizing you are equally distant from both ends of the road—a moment of quiet perspective before continuing south.
INTO THE ALENTEJO AND BEYOND
As she rode further south, the rugged mountains gave way to the golden plains of the Alentejo, where white-painted trees lined the road like something from a storybook.
This was the calmest part of the journey—long, straight roads bordered by cork oaks and olive trees.
Eventually, the road twisted once more through the Serra do Caldeirão before descending toward the Algarve coast. The final stop was Faro, where the last milestone at Km 738 marks the official end of the EN2. There, Rafaela celebrated with a cold beer and a final stamp in her passport—mission accomplished.
WHY HIGHTAIL MAKES A DIFFERENCE
Long rides like Rafaela’s mean hours in the sun, wind, and the heat of the asphalt, with plenty of spontaneous stops along the way.
For journeys like the EN2, Hightail is a small but essential companion. It clips easily to your helmet, protecting your hair from tangles, sun damage, and the elements, so you can focus on what really matters: the road, the scenery, and the experience.
WANT THE FULL RIDE?
Rafaela’s diary is filled with even more details—like the infamous Km 666 milestone, hidden river beaches perfect for a quick swim, unexpected friendships made along the way, and dozens of stunning photos that bring the EN2 to life. She also shares her recommendations for accommodations and best places to eat.
This article is just a glimpse into her adventure.
