Portugal’s iconic Colcurinho bike vanishes under heavy snow as storm cripples region
Storm Ingrid has blanketed parts of central Portugal in snow, leaving the famous bike at Colcurinho buried under a thick layer. The district of Coimbra remains on high alert, with authorities warning of treacherous conditions until Saturday morning. Residents have been urged to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.
The iconic metal bicycle, a well-known landmark near Oliveira do Hospital, now stands surrounded by deep snow. This same structure survived a devastating wildfire just last August. From its position, visitors usually enjoy sweeping views of the Serra da Estrela and Serra do Açor mountain ranges—but today, those vistas are hidden behind heavy winter storm.
Local officials have issued repeated warnings about the dangers of travel. A Facebook post from a community source in Oliveira do Hospital stressed extreme caution, highlighting icy roads and poor visibility. The alert specifically advised against non-essential journeys, especially in higher-altitude zones where conditions are most severe. The entire district of Coimbra remains under an orange weather warning until 9:00 AM on Saturday. Emergency services are on standby as temperatures stay below freezing, increasing the risk of accidents on untreated roads.
The snow-covered bicycle at Colcurinho has become a stark symbol of the storm’s impact. With the orange alert still in place, travel restrictions and safety measures will likely continue until conditions improve. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely as the region waits for temperatures to rise.
