The Douro Valley is a wine region that lovers of the occasional tipple must explore, and it is not far from the old seaside city of Porto. If you don’t drink much or are traveling with children, this northern region of Portugal’s sun-drenched country still has a lot of other sights and noises to take in. If you are wondering exactly what the main highlights of this scenic area are, here are unique things about the Magnificent Douro Valley as a wine-tasting destination.
1. Douro Valley’s famous terraced vineyards
The terraced vineyards that make up the Douro Valley are a sight to behold, whether you enjoy wine or not. Get your fill of Instagram-worthy photos at locations like the Miradouro de So Leonardo da Galafura if you are interested in actually stepping outside and taking in the scenery the valley has to offer. On a clear day, you can see for kilometers in all directions from this location, which is the highest point in the valley.2. The Douro River
A boat excursion along the Douro River is unquestionably one of the most memorable ways to experience the valley if you know that the only way to get your holiday kicks is with a little time in the Sun while on the water. There are several options available, ranging from a full-day cruise departing from Porto that makes stops in significant cities and famed wine regions to a brief, romantic wine-tasting visit for two. However, this tour may not be favorable for children.3. Tasty traditional cuisine
Although Portugal’s coastal cities are renowned for their seafood, inland areas like the Douro Valley also serve up some delectable cuisine. Traditional delicacies like Feijoada, a hearty stew prepared with beans, pork, or mushrooms, are served at many of the region’s wineries and hamlet tascas (casual cafes). However, because you are on vacation, it’s definitely time to spoil yourself. And the Douro Valley offers you the possibility to really go all out by making a reservation at one of the region’s chic, contemporary restaurants, such as the Michelin-starred DOC – Chef Rui Paula just next to the river in Folgosa.4. The Parque Natural do Douro Internacional
It would be a shame not to take a leisurely trek while you are visiting the Douro Valley with the stunning scenery around. Making a beeline for the Parque Natural do Douro Internacional is the best way to burn it off. It is one of Portugal’s thirteen national parks and is situated at the valley’s easternmost point, just across the Spanish border. More than 100 endangered bird species call it home, including Egyptian vultures and golden eagles, and the area’s stunning canyon terrain resembles something out of the Wild West.5. A spectacularly scenic drive
The Douro Valley is the ideal destination for a road trip with its meandering roads surrounded by backdrops of stunning mountains, wonderful National Parks, and lovely vineyards. The N222 between Régua and Pinho is one of the best routes for breathtaking views of the picturesque landscape. If you want to stop off to sample some Port or eat a leisurely lunch, the road runs just south of the river and through a few Quintas.6. The Douro region’s medieval villages
Countless traditional towns in the Douro Valley almost seem to be frozen in time. There are six significant wine villages to explore, all of which have close ties to the region’s winemaking history, in addition to larger communities like Régua. Visit charming Provesende to see its historic homes, stately mansions, and cobblestone town square, where you will discover a charming 80-year-old bakery that makes some of the best bread outside of Lisbon. There are our six reasons why you should look into the Magnificent Douro Valley as a wine-tasting destination.Want to read more? Try these books!
