Cycling from Lisbon to Merida then VDLP

I am cycling VDLP starting mid April. I have hired a bike from Bike Iberia in Lisbon. (I have hired from them before and recommend them). Rather than starting out in Seville, I plan to cycle from Lisbon to Merida and join VDLP there. My wife is walking from a Lisbon to Santiago, so that is why I plan to start in Lisbon.
Does anyone have experience/suggestions on routings/roads from Lisbon to Merida. I will be on a hybrid bike. Thank you for any information.