Douro Valley is one of those places that you've probably never heard of, and then all of a sudden you google it or come across it somewhere in a travel blog, and you can't even imagine seeing a place more beautiful and scenic than this one. It is the very definition of majestic - a place that you've only envisioned in your dreams or seen in the movies. The Douro Valley is the primary wine growing region of Northern Portugal - the wine capital, if you will. The beautiful terraced vineyards and green-brown mountains swoop down into the glassy blue waters of the the Douro Valley, making it an absolute stunning sight to see. And this wasn't just the view in certain fortunate areas, this was the view everywhere! I don't have enough amazing things to say about this place. Even with its sleepy charm, you won't have any trouble discovering spectacular vistas, delectable cuisine, and memorable wines - if you know where to go. getting to douro valleyThere are numerous ways to reach this destination - by car, by train, and by boat. The train route through the Douro Valley is actually known as one of the most beautiful train journeys in Europe, but it isn't the only option. Car: If you don't have your own car, then renting a car for the weekend would be highly recommended. Driving definitely gives you the most flexibility when it comes to exploring the Douro Valley, and there is so much you won't be able to see and do if you are limited by boat or train. The scenic drive from Porto to Pinhao takes about four hours. The N222 between Pinhao and Regua was voted the World's Best Drive in 2015. This was easily the most gorgeous section of our entire road trip, and highly recommended. Train: Driving a car along the narrow, winding roads that make their way up the dizzyingly steep slopes is not for everyone - so why not let the train take the strain? A direct line runs up the valley, starting from Porto's São Bento station in the city centre and ending near the Spanish border at Pocinho. The towns of Régua and Pinhão making good stopping off points along the way. No need to make reservations, trains leave regularly and tickets are reasonably priced (the trip from Porto to the end of the line at Pocinho costs less than €14 one way). Boat: Douro river cruises can last from an hour to one or more days, with or without meals and vineyard visits. I haven't yet experienced one of the boat cruise journeys but I've heard nothing but amazing things about them. Some of the Douro day tours from Porto combine rail and river so you go one way by boat and return by train. Or vice versa. Note that longer cruises only operate between April and October and even the shorter ones will be weather dependent in winter. These boat rides usually take about 10 hours or so and the prices vary by company. accomodation in douro valleyThere are a plethora of Quinta's located throughout the valley, it really just depends on your preference as to where to stay. Most of them, if not all of them, provide a breakfast option for an additional cost. We stayed at Quinta Da Cumieira, which was rather hard to find, however, the place was absolutely beautiful and provided more than enough activities on site for the duration of our stay. QUINTA DA CUMIEIRA Location: Quinta da Cumieira Cumieira, S.Nicolau, 4860-136 Cabeceiras de Basto, Portugal Cost: 1 bedroom - $67.00 per night (priceline.com) Hours: 2:00 p.m. check in time / 12:00 p.m. check out time Website: www.quintadacumieira.eu/en/bed-breakfast-2/ TOP PLACES TO EAT IN douro valley'When it comes to food, Portugal has some of the tastiest meals I've ever encountered in any country I've visited. Not only are they famous for their port wines, but they also offer a delicious variety of seafood options in almost every restaurant you come in contact with. Most of the places you will find to eat at are located within the Quinta's. If you are lucky enough to stay at a place that has a fully equipped kitchen, then cooking your own meals would be of preference. There are a few grocery stores located in the city that can be accessed with a car. I personally did not eat at any of these restaurants provided below, however, they are highly rated and recommended from other travel bloggers. TOP THINGS TO DO & SEE in douro valleyKnown primarily for its wine tastings and vineyards, Douro Valley also provides other types of attractions and activities to participate in. You will need to travel a little bit in order to get to these places, but I can assure you, it's not too far. Everything around Douro Valley is no more than 30 minutes by car.
Whether you are looking to indulge in some wine and cheese tastings, gaze out at the spectacular views, or take a ferry down the river, you will find it all here. The village of Lamego is fairly close as well, and offers restaurants, shops, and some popular tourist attractions.
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AuthorWest Coast blogger with a love for traveling and adventure seeking. Archives
July 2018
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