In spite of the area’s climbing appeal, it’s fairly very easy to obtain out of the ordinary in Douro. From tasting the popular prepared wines, to discovering the wineries, as well as loosening up on a cruise ship along the Douro River, we provide an uncommon consider the area’s sweetest delights for a best day in Douro.
Simply a few hrs far from Porto – the local large city – the Douro Valley has a spirit of its very own. Recognized for its impressive wine culture as well as breath-taking landscapes, which have actually gained it a UNESCO Globe Heritage listing, it has actually turned into one of one of the most amazing locations to check out in Portugal.
As well as like every terrific location, you’ll never ever lack points to do. Either on a 5-day experience or 7-day luxury tour, we’ll make certain you will not leave any kind of rock upturned. You’ll have the chance to remain at the most effective resorts, see one of the most characteristic vineyards and also dining establishments in the location, while going across some points off your pail checklist heading.
Start with a morning walk in the vineyards
Wine estates, vineyards and Port are part of Douro wine region’s story. A winery visit and Port tasting are easily two of the best things to do in Douro – and often the main reason for visiting.
After arrival in Pinhão, in the heart of the Alto Douro Wine Area, you’ll obtain close as well as individual with the stunning landscape from a really one-of-a-kind point of view with an assisted trip via the wineries at Quinta das Carval has. This is the most significant vineyard in the Douro Area, located on a fortunate setting forgeting the river. On this individually excursion, assisted by the internal farmer, you’ll have a truly distinct experience walking the wineries alongside with somebody that understands them by heart, finishing with a sampling of 4 wines as well as a cheese plate.
Below walkers could likewise delight in stunning tracks at Quinta Nova High-end Winery House. On-site are several of the area’s leading strolling tracks– the lengthiest which is 2 as well as a fifty percent hrs – which check out the ridgetop’s stunning wineries as well as cause also much better perspectives compared to those from the roadway.
When you’re taking a trip with among Europe’s premier wine areas, just how could the best day in Douro not consist of a crisp glass of wine? The Unique Tasting includes 4 barrel-aged table wines as well as one Vintage Port.
Take note: If you want to delve deeper into the local culture, traditions, and history, you might want to consider getting a private driver. A private driver will allow you to quickly move around – especially in a mainly rural, sparsely populated area, where roads are difficult to navigate – and leave yourself free to take in the beautiful scenery and fully enjoy the wine tasting.
In the kitchen
Located near Port wine town and cruise centre of Peso da Régua, Quinta da Pacheca was one of the first properties to bottle wine under its own label. You can take a vineyard tour here, enjoy a tasting, or – best yet – have a cooking class where you’ll learn traditional techniques while preparing your very own meal. Chef Carlos Pires serves regional cuisine with dishes such as Oven-Roasted Octopus or Cornbread Crusted Cod, all naturally paired with Quinta da Pacheca wines.
Slightly further upstream, is Rui Paula’s DOC. Built over the river at Folgosa, this creative and sophisticated spot lives up to the expectations surrounding the Michelin starred-Chef, with a colorful menu rooted in both tradition and modernity, smartly paired with a comprehensive wine list. It’s no wonder it took the 15th place in TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards for best restaurant in the world.
Take in the sights from the river
With full bellies, the next point of call is the dazzling Douro River. Catch the boat from the Folgosa Pier – just outside DOC Restaurant. Relax on board of a private sailing boat while cruising upriver and enjoy the vineyards and terraces leading down to the river.
River cruises can last from two hours to one or more days, with or without meals, and are a delightful way to enjoy the landscape. Whether you want to sit back and enjoy a sunset sail ride, an on-board picnic or dinner catered by DOC Restaurant itself, there are options for all.
You may also enjoy a full-day tour with stopovers at a couple wineries along the way for wine tasting and lunch, or maybe a night’s stay. These cruises will cater to all tastes and ensure that you experience the very best of this wonderful region.
At the chef’s table
Back on high ground, spend your final hours of the day at the gorgeous Six Senses Douro Valley. Perched on a mountain among the surrounding vines, the first European property of the Six Senses Group combines elegance with the region’s traditional heritage.
The hotel’s Vale Abraão Restaurant offers a range of dining options, including a chef’s table where you can enjoy an impressive ten-course meal – generously portioned and beautifully plated – as well as wine pairings. Nicely installed in the chef’s table, you will be able to accompany all the cooking of the tasted dishes under the attentive guidance of the restaurant staff. Everything is presented beautifully and a lot of the products come directly from the organic garden.
For an alternative Michelin-worthy dinner head to Quinta do Portal, located a 20-minute drive from Pinhão. Beautifully isolated in the middle of their own vineyards, it belongs to a century-old winemaking family, who has been here for hundreds of years. The estate houses an excellent restaurant, led by young and talented Chef Milton Ferreira, who uses locally-grown ingredients splendidly paired with in-house wines in a creative way.
No one knows better than you what you want. But our staff has the experience and knowledge to show what is available and what is possible.
