Entering the Douro Valley is embarking on a journey of unparalleled enchantment. It’s as if nature itself decided to overflow in forms and colors, transforming every bend of the river into a geological masterpiece of beauty. Here, you don’t just observe a panorama; you immerse yourself in a universe of grandeur where every detail invites admiration. It’s as if the Douro, in its exuberance, weaves a living poem, intertwining mountains, vineyards, and waters in a symphony of perfection. A beauty that transcends the ordinary, revealing itself as an eloquent testament to the magnificence of creation.
This private tour will start and end in the city of Porto. For any questions, feel free to contact us.
The Alto Douro Wine Region is a treasure rooted in history, shaped by the intimate collaboration between man and nature over centuries. Here, where the Douro River carved deep valleys, and the schist mountains were transformed into fertile vineyard land, each season is a symphony of colors and aromas. It’s the legacy of generations, carefully woven into each terraced slope to capture the sun’s kisses and provide the necessary warmth to nurture grapes into world-renowned wines.
Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2001, the Alto Douro Wine Region encompasses about 24,000 hectares, including the picturesque municipalities that guard its essence. The terraces that adorn the landscape, built with technique and wisdom, bear witness to the harmony between human intervention and natural beauty. By joining our Douro Valley Tour, we invite you to discover the secrets and charms of this unique region, where tradition and landscape merge into an unforgettable experience.
Itinerary
Marão, the mountain range that leads us to Amarante, where São Gonçalo de Amarante awaits our prayers. In the historic center, Romanesque architecture and medieval buildings captivate visitors. Crossing the São Gonçalo Bridge, we find the imposing Church and Convent, as well as the Amadeu de Souza-Cardoso Museum. On weekends, the São Gonçalo pastry stalls, known as “quilhõezinhos,” spark curiosity and laughter, in a tradition that dates back to the city’s June festivities.
Entering the Alto Douro Wine Region, we encounter Peso da Régua, known as the world’s wine capital. In bygone times, Rabelo boats would set sail from here in February, laden with Port wine, navigating the Douro River to the Gaia docks in Porto. A journey rooted in history and tradition, where every sip reveals centuries of winemaking culture.
About 20 kilometers away, along the N222 road, voted the best road in the world in 2015, we arrive at Pinhão, a jewel on the banks of the Douro River. One of the most stunning attractions is the train station, adorned with 24 tile panels depicting wine production, including Port wine. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2001, this region is a true cultural treasure. Here, we also find a variety of typical restaurants offering irresistible lunch options. For an unforgettable experience, one can opt for a boat ride along the river, which lasts about 50 minutes.
Considering the efficient management of our time during the Douro Valley Tour, one option to consider is enjoying a Rabelo boat ride, lasting approximately one hour. This ride, though not included in the tour price, offers a unique and enriching experience, allowing us to explore the river’s beauty and take in the stunning landscapes of this special region.
And now, we arrive at the main reason for our visit to the Douro Valley: exploring a winery, included in this tour. Here, we will have the opportunity to understand the entire process involved in wine production, from vine cultivation, through pruning and harvesting, to the much-anticipated final product. I’m confident that by the end of this experience, we will all share the same appreciation for the hard work and dedication required to produce quality wine. And, of course, after so much discussion and learning, the long-awaited moment of tasting the results will arrive.
The choice of winery for this visit is exclusively made by Walkborder. However, if you wish to include a winery of your choice, this can be arranged as long as the change does not alter the tour’s duration or distance. In this case, the additional cost for the visit to the winery chosen by the client will be borne by them.
We will also have time to enjoy a breathtaking view at the Casal de Loivos Viewpoint, where mountains and valleys intertwine in harmony with nature. This moment will offer a unique perspective on the stunning landscape of the Douro Valley, which is truly a masterpiece created by the hand of man in harmony with Mother Nature.
Another option for our tour is a visit to Mateus Palace, where we can admire one of the most beautiful Baroque palaces in Portugal. Also known as Solar de Mateus, this palace is the birthplace of the famous Mateus Rosé wine. A masterpiece of 18th-century Baroque architecture, it was designed by Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni, being one of the most elegant mansions in Europe of its time.
One of the most impressive attractions of Mateus Palace is its fanciful garden, adorned with geometric hedge formations, sculpted statues, and a serene cypress walkway. This visit promises to enchant our senses, offering a unique experience of immersion in Portugal’s history and artistic beauty. Tickets for this visit are not included in the tour.
