Mountain Bike : Spectacular Adventure From Summit To Sea

CaboVerdeGreen can take care of bringing you to the starting point of the excursion. Please contact us to receive a quote.

From Pedra Rachada at about 1.500 meters of altitude, the ride begins on a dry, rocky mountain landscape typical of the highlands of Santo Antão. The first kilometers follow a dirt track that crosses the upper plateau, weaving between small clusters of pine trees, patches of volcanic basalt and open ridgelines that offer wide views toward the Paul valley and the island’s central mountains. The terrain is irregular but generally rideable, with gentle rises and dips that help you settle into a rhythm before the long descent. As the route bends east and then south, it approaches the upper edge of the Ribeira da Torre, and the track gradually narrows, becoming a traditional basalt cobblestone mule path with stone steps, uneven slabs and tight switchbacks. This marks the beginning of the true descent: a long, technical downhill where good control and attention are essential. As you lose altitude, the scenery transforms quickly. The bare mountain rock and sparse vegetation give way to the first terraced fields, dry-stone walls and scattered palm trees that signal the entrance into the great valley. The towering cliffs of the Ribeira da Torre rise dramatically on both sides, creating one of the most impressive natural corridors on the island. As the trail continues, it winds through small clusters of houses and agricultural terraces before reaching the village of Xôxô, a picturesque settlement nestled deep within the gorge. Here the air becomes more humid, the valley narrows, and tropical vegetation flourishes: mango trees, papaya plants and dense banana fields accompany the ride. The trail surface becomes more varied, alternating between short cemented sections on steep slopes, compact dirt on quieter stretches, and small stone bridges that cross the stream. As the descent continues, the path gradually broadens into a smoother track, perfect for letting the bike flow. The long downhill offers constant views of daily rural life on the terraces and the dramatic valley walls. Nearing the bottom, houses become more frequent, children play along the roadside, and the landscape shifts toward a semi-urban environment. Once on the valley floor, the route joins the main paved road leading directly to Ribeira Grande. The final kilometers are relaxed and easy, following the riverbed through small neighborhoods until the town finally opens up around you. Entering the center of Ribeira Grande marks the end of the journey: a lively coastal town with squares, historic buildings, cafés and the gentle sound of the ocean nearby. This roughly 25-kilometer route offers a continuous and seamless transition from high mountain scenery to tropical valley and finally to coastal town—one of the most varied and captivating mountain-bike descents in all of Santo Antão.

From the age of 9 + only ( kids require previous experience).

Highlights 

• Start at 1.500 mt with sweeping views over the high plateau.

• Ride across basalt highlands, pine patches and wide ridgelines.

• Enter a long, technical descent on old stone mule paths.

• Drop into the dramatic gorge of Ribeira da Torre with towering cliffs.

• Pass through the charming village of Xôxô surrounded by tropical crops.

• Experience varied terrain: dirt, basalt cobbles, small bridges and cemented slopes.

• Enjoy a fast, flowing lower-valley section perfect for speed.

• Finish in Ribeira Grande, the cultural hub of the northern coast.

🌿 Green Note 

• Stay on marked trails to protect fragile terraces and endemic plants.

• Reduce speed near villages and avoid disturbing livestock and local residents.

• Carry out all waste; rural valleys have limited waste-management facilities.

• Support small local shops along the route to contribute to the valley’s economy.