Portugal: Minho & the Douro Valley

Your vacation is about to begin! Spend your first night aloft and arrive ready for an unforgettable trip.

A local representative or driver welcomes you on arrival at Porto Airport and arranges your complimentary car service to your centrally located hotel in Porto, approximately a 20-minute drive.

Upon arrival at the Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel, settle into one of the city’s most atmospheric settings. This elegant property occupies a collection of 16th–18th century townhouses on Porto’s picturesque Ribeira Square—a UNESCO World Heritage site overlooking the Douro River. Blending original stone façades and timber beams with contemporary design, the hotel captures the essence of Porto’s riverside charm, where centuries of history meet modern comfort.

Take a moment to relax in your stylish guest room, many of which offer views of the bustling waterfront and the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge. Official check-in time is 3:00 p.m.; if you arrive earlier, the hotel will gladly store your luggage so you can begin exploring.

Step outside into the heart of Porto’s lively Ribeira district, where narrow cobblestone streets lead to wine bars, artisan shops, and cafés clustered along the river. You might stroll the Cais da Ribeira promenade, take a scenic boat ride on the Douro, or cross the bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia to visit one of the famous Port wine cellars.

Lunch and dinner are on your own today. You’ll find plenty of inviting options—from riverside bistros serving petiscos (Portuguese tapas) to elegant restaurants that highlight fresh Atlantic seafood and specialties such as bacalhau à Brás or the indulgent francesinha sandwich. Your City Highlights provide additional recommendations for dining, sightseeing, and local experiences to help you make the most of your stay in Porto.

Walking Tour of Ponte de Lima; 1 hour, easy. Camino de Santiago: Ponte de Lima to Church of Santa Marinha de Arcozelo and Toca River Watermills; 2–4.8-mile options, easy

After enjoying an included breakfast at your hotel, your Country Walkers leaders will meet you at 9:00 a.m. in the lobby of the Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel. Dress for walking in comfortable, weather-appropriate attire with sturdy footwear, and bring a daypack to carry essentials such as rain gear and a filled water bottle.

From the meeting point in Porto, your adventure begins with a scenic drive north into Portugal’s lush Minho region, the first of three distinct regions you’ll explore on this journey. Known for its rolling green hills, terraced vineyards, and deep-rooted traditions, the Minho is often described as the birthplace of Portugal.

Travel along the picturesque Lima River to the storybook town of Ponte de Lima, one of Portugal’s oldest and most charming settlements. Named for its iconic Roman bridge, the town is a gem of cobbled streets, tiled façades, and leafy river promenades. Your Trip Leaders will guide you on a short walk through the historic center, pointing out traces of Roman, medieval, and Baroque heritage that shape its character.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where you’ll sample traditional northern Portuguese fare—perhaps savory codfish cakes, ham and cheese tapas, a fresh salad, or a comforting vegetable soup served with warm bread.

In the afternoon, lace up your walking shoes for your first experience of the Camino de Santiago, the legendary Way of St. James, known simply as the Camino. Your walk begins as you cross Ponte de Lima’s graceful bridge, whose original Roman arches have spanned the river for nearly two millennia. From here, follow a centuries-old path once walked by pilgrims seeking reflection and renewal. The landscape gradually opens into pastoral countryside dotted with farmhouses, grazing cattle, and the vineyards that produce Portugal’s famed Vinho Verde.

Your route concludes with a refreshing pause near the charming watermills of the Toca River, where your shuttle awaits to carry you deeper into the tranquil heart of Peneda-Gerês National Park.

Settle in for two nights at the Pousada Caniçada-Gerês, an elegant retreat perched high above the Caniçada Dam. Surrounded by sweeping mountain views and crystalline lake waters, this serene property showcases the natural beauty of Portugal’s only national park. Relax on the terrace with a glass of local wine before gathering with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner featuring regional specialties in the Pousada’s panoramic restaurant.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Peneda-Gerês National Park; 3 miles, easy to moderate. São Bento Sanctuary area optional walk; 2 miles, easy to moderate

Today, venture deep into Peneda-Gerês National Park, a protected wilderness of forested valleys, granite peaks, and mountain pastures in northern Portugal’s Minho region. As the country’s only national park, this extraordinary landscape preserves a way of life that has changed little over the centuries. Remote mountain villages seem frozen in time, their stone houses and cobbled lanes linked by ancient pathways once used by shepherds and pilgrims.

Your walk begins high in the park’s rugged uplands, where sweeping views stretch across rock-strewn hillsides and terraced fields. The trail you follow—once paved in sections by the Romans—has long served as a route for both pilgrims and herders moving between the highlands and the valley below. As you descend, the dramatic scenery unfolds: granite peaks rising sharply above you, pockets of forest providing welcome shade, and glimpses of the shimmering Homen River appearing in the distance.

Continue gradually downhill, pausing at scenic overlooks that reveal the grandeur of this protected landscape. At the base of the trail, your shuttle is waiting to bring you to the village of Campo do Gerês, a small gateway community at the edge of the national park.

Here, enjoy lunch on your own at one of the village cafés or taverns, where simple northern Portuguese dishes highlight local ingredients and everyday flavors. After lunch, you may choose to join an optional walk around the peaceful grounds of the São Bento Sanctuary or return directly to your hotel.

Back at the Pousada Caniçada-Gerês, a relaxing afternoon awaits. Perhaps unwind with a swim in the hilltop pool overlooking the Caniçada Reservoir, sip a glass of Vinho Verde on the terrace, or simply take in the sweeping mountain and lake views from the gardens. Dinner this evening is at your leisure in the Pousada’s inviting restaurant, where regional specialties—such as roasted veal, fresh trout, or hearty stews—are paired beautifully with northern Portuguese wines.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Guimarães; Provesende to Pinhão; 1.6–4-mile options, easy to moderate

After breakfast, depart your hotel and begin your journey toward Portugal’s celebrated Douro Valley, where steeply terraced vineyards line the banks of the sinuous Douro River. En route, pause in Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage city often called the birthplace of Portugal. It was here that Afonso Henriques, the nation’s first king, laid the groundwork for Portuguese independence in the 12th century.

With your Trip Leaders, enjoy a short stroll through Guimarães’s atmospheric center, where stone-paved lanes wind between medieval towers, arcaded squares, and graceful Renaissance façades. Then take some free time to explore or enjoy a light lunch at one of the cafés lining lively Largo da Oliveira.

Continuing east, arrive in Provesende, a charming hillside village in the county of Sabrosa—the birthplace of the great explorer Ferdinand Magellan. With its Moorish-era origins, stately manor houses, cobbled streets, and elegant Baroque church, Provesende feels beautifully removed from the modern world.

From the village, set out on foot toward the Douro. Your route descends gently through the heart of the wine region, one of the world’s oldest demarcated wine areas and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2001. Vineyards cling to terraced hillsides in precise geometric rows, creating a living tapestry of gold and green above the river. This historic route, once used by vineyard workers, is punctuated by occasional whitewashed quintas (wine estates) perched among the vines.

As you make your way downhill, enjoy sweeping views of the Douro River glinting below. The final section follows cobblestoned paths and short stretches of paved road before reaching the riverside town of Pinhão, your home for the next two nights.

Nestled in a wide bend of the Douro and surrounded on all sides by vineyards, Pinhão sits at the heart of Port wine country. Its tiled train station is decorated with exquisite blue azulejos depicting scenes of the grape harvest, and its small marina is lined with traditional wooden rabelo boats.

Your accommodations at The Vintage House Hotel offer a serene setting right on the riverbank. A converted 19th-century Port wine warehouse, the hotel blends historic charm with contemporary comfort, featuring manicured gardens, a riverside pool, and elegant rooms that open onto private terraces overlooking the water.

After settling in, perhaps enjoy a stroll along the river promenade or relax with a glass of Douro red on the terrace. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcoming dinner at the hotel, savoring refined regional cuisine and local wines.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Vineyard walk to Ferrão train station; 3–4-mile options, easy to moderate

After a satisfying breakfast, set out to explore the vineyard landscapes that have made the Douro Valley famous. A short morning shuttle brings you to a panoramic vantage point high above the river, where your walk begins.

Follow scenic paths and farm lanes as they wind through some of the region’s most storied vineyards, passing rows of gnarled vines, dry-stone terraces, and traditional whitewashed wine estates. Along the way, your Trip Leaders share insight into how the valley’s steep slopes, schist soil, and sun exposure combine to shape the distinctive character of Douro wines.

Your route descends gently toward the riverside Ferrão train station, where you’ll board a short, picturesque train ride that traces the riverbank back toward Pinhão. The track hugs the water’s edge, offering a memorable perspective on the terraced hillsides and quintas that rise above the Douro.

Today’s walk concludes at a beautiful vineyard estate nestled above the river. Here, you’ll be welcomed for a leisurely picnic lunch featuring a generous spread of regional specialties—artisan cheeses, charcuterie, savory tarts, local olives, fresh salads, and sweet pastries—paired with a tasting of fine estate wines and Ports.

After lunch, a short drive returns you to your hotel in Pinhão. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. You might visit the Wine House Museum to learn more about the valley’s viticultural traditions, wander through town and along the waterfront promenade, or simply unwind by the pool or on your private terrace at The Vintage House Hotel.

Later, take a brief shuttle to the D’Origem Olive Oil Museum in nearby Casal de Loivos. Discover the ancient craft of olive oil production—from stone presses to hand-harvesting—and sample freshly pressed oils paired with local tapas. Return to Pinhão for dinner on your own, choosing from inviting riverside restaurants or the hotel’s elegant dining room.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Freixo de Numão to Ruins of Prazo; 1.2–2-mile options, moderate

After breakfast, embark on a memorable river journey through the heart of the Douro. Step aboard a privately chartered wooden vessel modeled after the traditional rabelos that once transported barrels of Port wine downriver to Porto. As your boat glides along the calm waters, admire changing vistas of terraced vineyards, olive groves, and stone-walled estates rising steeply above the riverbanks.

Relax on deck as you savor a picnic-style lunch served on board, featuring fresh regional specialties that reflect the flavors of northern Portugal. A highlight of the voyage is passing through the Ferrão lock, an impressive engineering feat that lifts the vessel nearly 100 feet upstream—an unforgettable part of your Douro experience.

Disembark in the small riverside hamlet of Ferradosa, where you can either ride comfortably by shuttle to your accommodations or join a short but rewarding walk along the Rota das Aldeias Históricas (“Route of the Historical Villages”).

Those choosing to walk begin in the village of Freixo de Numão, following an ancient trail that once linked fortified frontier settlements. The route starts with a gentle uphill stretch on a cobblestone road, then descends briefly before ascending gradually toward the atmospheric Prazo archaeological site. Along the way, enjoy wide views over a landscape dotted with rocky forests, almond trees, and olive groves. Your walk culminates in a guided visit to the ruins, where evidence of human occupation spans from prehistory through the Roman period and into the Middle Ages—a true journey through time.

Rejoin your shuttle for the drive to the historic village of Marialva, where you’ll stay for the next two nights.

Your home is Casas do Côro, a beautifully restored cluster of stone houses tucked within the walls of Marialva’s ancient fortress. Combining rustic authenticity with modern comfort, this tranquil hideaway features gardens, terraces, and panoramic valley views. Guest rooms showcase natural materials and warm lighting, while amenities include a serene pool and a small wellness area—perfect for unwinding after a day outdoors.

This evening is at your leisure. You may choose to dine at the hotel’s refined restaurant, enjoy a lighter meal at the pool bar, or, for those who wish to venture out, take a short taxi ride to the nearby town of Mêda, where local cafés and taverns offer additional dining options.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Loop walk at Faia Brava Nature Reserve; 1.2–3-mile options, easy to moderate

After a leisurely breakfast in the tranquil setting of your hilltop retreat, depart for a short transfer to Faia Brava, Portugal’s first private nature reserve. Situated in a dramatic, rocky landscape above the Côa River, this protected area is at the forefront of Europe’s rewilding movement.

Your walk here is led by an official reserve guide, who will introduce you to the region’s unique flora and fauna as well as the pioneering conservation work underway. As you traverse the ravines and open hillsides, keep watch for birds of prey soaring overhead and semi-wild Garrano horses grazing among the scrub. You’ll also learn about the reserve’s sophisticated rewilding strategies, designed to restore natural ecosystems and support native species.

The loop walk begins with a gentle downhill stretch on a natural path, then descends briefly before ascending gradually toward a scenic cliffside viewpoint. From here, the trail descends again and continues with rolling terrain back toward the starting point. Underfoot, the path alternates between dirt and uneven stones; although the climbs are modest, the terrain can feel rugged in places.

Return by bus to Marialva and enjoy an included lunch at a local village restaurant. Here you can meet residents and savor typical regional dishes that reflect the area’s rural heritage.

In the afternoon, set out on foot to explore Marialva, one of Portugal’s most evocative historic villages. With roots reaching back to the 6th century BCE and a royal charter granted in 1179, Marialva once served as a powerful frontier fortress guarding the kingdom’s borders. Granite houses, winding lanes, and fortified walls appear almost sculpted into the hillside, preserving centuries of history in their weathered stone.

A guided walk leads you up to the castle ruins, where sweeping views reveal the rugged terrain that once defined this strategic stronghold. Along the way, your guide will share stories of ancient settlers, Moorish influences, and the families who have kept this village alive through the ages.

You’ll then have free time to explore at your own pace—perhaps strolling among terraced fields, stone walls, vineyards, and fruit trees surrounding the village, or simply relaxing on the pool terrace at Casas do Côro, with views stretching over the rolling countryside.

This evening, gather one final time for a farewell dinner at your hotel. The menu features cherished family recipes lovingly passed down to the owners of Casas do Côro, celebrating the authenticity and warmth of Portuguese country cooking—a fitting finale to your unforgettable journey through the landscapes, flavors, and traditions of northern Portugal.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Shortly after breakfast, depart by private shuttle for the approximately four-hour journey to Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital. Along the way, you’ll make a few brief stops to stretch your legs and freshen up. There will also be an opportunity to enjoy a light lunch (at your own expense) before continuing through Portugal’s scenic heartland toward the coast.

The tour officially concludes at approximately 1:30 p.m., upon arrival at the Post-Tour hotel, Sofitel Lisbon Liberdade.

After being dropped off directly at the Sofitel Lisbon Liberdade, settle in and enjoy your final evening in Portugal at this elegant five-star retreat in the heart of Lisbon. Ideally located on the prestigious Avenida da Liberdade, the hotel places you within easy walking distance of grand squares, designer boutiques, historic neighborhoods, and lively cafés.

Blending contemporary French sophistication with Portuguese charm, Sofitel Lisbon Liberdade features inviting guest rooms with plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and thoughtful touches such as Nespresso coffee and luxury amenities. You might relax with a cocktail in the chic bar or savor creative Portuguese-French fusion cuisine at the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant, Matiz Lisboa.

Once you’re ready to explore, stroll down the boulevard toward Rossio Square and the Baixa district, or visit the upper platform of the Elevador de Santa Justa for panoramic city views. Nearby, you’ll find the atmospheric ruins of the Convento do Carmo and the stylish Chiado neighborhood, known for its shops, galleries, and cafés—perfect for enjoying a classic pastel de nata.

Lunch and dinner are on your own today. Lisbon’s dining scene offers everything from refined seafood restaurants along the riverfront to cozy tascas serving traditional dishes such as bacalhau à Brás or caldo verde.

Your City Highlights provide additional suggestions for sightseeing, dining, and cultural experiences to help you make the most of your stay.

Included Meals: Breakfast

After an included breakfast, complimentary transportation will be provided to Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport (approximately a 30-minute drive), based on your departing flight time.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Walking Tour of Ponte de Lima; 1 hour, easy. Camino de Santiago: Ponte de Lima to Church of Santa Marinha de Arcozelo and Toca River Watermills; 2–4.8-mile options, easy

Meet your Trip Leaders at 9:00 a.m. in the lobby of the Pre-Tour hotel, the Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel in Porto. Dress for walking in comfortable, weather-appropriate attire with sturdy footwear, and bring a daypack to carry essentials such as rain gear and a filled water bottle.

From the meeting point in Porto, your adventure begins with a scenic drive north into Portugal’s lush Minho region, the first of three distinct regions you’ll explore on this journey. Known for its rolling green hills, terraced vineyards, and deep-rooted traditions, the Minho is often described as the birthplace of Portugal.

Travel along the picturesque Lima River to the storybook town of Ponte de Lima, one of Portugal’s oldest and most charming settlements. Named for its iconic Roman bridge, the town is a gem of cobbled streets, tiled façades, and leafy river promenades. Your Trip Leaders will guide you on a short walk through the historic center, pointing out traces of Roman, medieval, and Baroque heritage that shape its character.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where you’ll sample traditional northern Portuguese fare—perhaps savory codfish cakes, ham and cheese tapas, a fresh salad, or a comforting vegetable soup served with warm bread.

In the afternoon, lace up your walking shoes for your first experience of the Camino de Santiago, the legendary Way of St. James, known simply as the Camino. Your walk begins as you cross Ponte de Lima’s graceful bridge, whose original Roman arches have spanned the river for nearly two millennia. From here, follow a centuries-old path once walked by pilgrims seeking reflection and renewal. The landscape gradually opens into pastoral countryside dotted with farmhouses, grazing cattle, and the vineyards that produce Portugal’s famed Vinho Verde.

Your route concludes with a refreshing pause near the charming watermills of the Toca River, where your shuttle awaits to carry you deeper into the tranquil heart of Peneda-Gerês National Park.

Settle in for two nights at the Pousada Caniçada-Gerês, an elegant retreat perched high above the Caniçada Dam. Surrounded by sweeping mountain views and crystalline lake waters, this serene property showcases the natural beauty of Portugal’s only national park. Relax on the terrace with a glass of local wine before gathering with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner featuring regional specialties in the Pousada’s panoramic restaurant.

Included Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Peneda-Gerês National Park; 3 miles, easy to moderate. São Bento Sanctuary area optional walk; 2 miles, easy to moderate

Today, venture deep into Peneda-Gerês National Park, a protected wilderness of forested valleys, granite peaks, and mountain pastures in northern Portugal’s Minho region. As the country’s only national park, this extraordinary landscape preserves a way of life that has changed little over the centuries. Remote mountain villages seem frozen in time, their stone houses and cobbled lanes linked by ancient pathways once used by shepherds and pilgrims.

Your walk begins high in the park’s rugged uplands, where sweeping views stretch across rock-strewn hillsides and terraced fields. The trail you follow—once paved in sections by the Romans—has long served as a route for both pilgrims and herders moving between the highlands and the valley below. As you descend, the dramatic scenery unfolds: granite peaks rising sharply above you, pockets of forest providing welcome shade, and glimpses of the shimmering Homen River appearing in the distance.

Continue gradually downhill, pausing at scenic overlooks that reveal the grandeur of this protected landscape. At the base of the trail, your shuttle is waiting to bring you to the village of Campo do Gerês, a small gateway community at the edge of the national park.

Here, enjoy lunch on your own at one of the village cafés or taverns, where simple northern Portuguese dishes highlight local ingredients and everyday flavors. After lunch, you may choose to join an optional walk around the peaceful grounds of the São Bento Sanctuary or return directly to your hotel.

Back at the Pousada Caniçada-Gerês, a relaxing afternoon awaits. Perhaps unwind with a swim in the hilltop pool overlooking the Caniçada Reservoir, sip a glass of Vinho Verde on the terrace, or simply take in the sweeping mountain and lake views from the gardens. Dinner this evening is at your leisure in the Pousada’s inviting restaurant, where regional specialties—such as roasted veal, fresh trout, or hearty stews—are paired beautifully with northern Portuguese wines.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Guimarães; Provesende to Pinhão; 1.6–4-mile options, easy to moderate

After breakfast, depart your hotel and begin your journey toward Portugal’s celebrated Douro Valley, where steeply terraced vineyards line the banks of the sinuous Douro River. En route, pause in Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage city often called the birthplace of Portugal. It was here that Afonso Henriques, the nation’s first king, laid the groundwork for Portuguese independence in the 12th century.

With your Trip Leaders, enjoy a short stroll through Guimarães’s atmospheric center, where stone-paved lanes wind between medieval towers, arcaded squares, and graceful Renaissance façades. Then take some free time to explore or enjoy a light lunch at one of the cafés lining lively Largo da Oliveira.

Continuing east, arrive in Provesende, a charming hillside village in the county of Sabrosa—the birthplace of the great explorer Ferdinand Magellan. With its Moorish-era origins, stately manor houses, cobbled streets, and elegant Baroque church, Provesende feels beautifully removed from the modern world.

From the village, set out on foot toward the Douro. Your route descends gently through the heart of the wine region, one of the world’s oldest demarcated wine areas and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2001. Vineyards cling to terraced hillsides in precise geometric rows, creating a living tapestry of gold and green above the river. This historic route, once used by vineyard workers, is punctuated by occasional whitewashed quintas (wine estates) perched among the vines.

As you make your way downhill, enjoy sweeping views of the Douro River glinting below. The final section follows cobblestoned paths and short stretches of paved road before reaching the riverside town of Pinhão, your home for the next two nights.

Nestled in a wide bend of the Douro and surrounded on all sides by vineyards, Pinhão sits at the heart of Port wine country. Its tiled train station is decorated with exquisite blue azulejos depicting scenes of the grape harvest, and its small marina is lined with traditional wooden rabelo boats.

Your accommodations at The Vintage House Hotel offer a serene setting right on the riverbank. A converted 19th-century Port wine warehouse, the hotel blends historic charm with contemporary comfort, featuring manicured gardens, a riverside pool, and elegant rooms that open onto private terraces overlooking the water.

After settling in, perhaps enjoy a stroll along the river promenade or relax with a glass of Douro red on the terrace. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcoming dinner at the hotel, savoring refined regional cuisine and local wines.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Vineyard walk to Ferrão train station; 3–4-mile options, easy to moderate

After a satisfying breakfast, set out to explore the vineyard landscapes that have made the Douro Valley famous. A short morning shuttle brings you to a panoramic vantage point high above the river, where your walk begins.

Follow scenic paths and farm lanes as they wind through some of the region’s most storied vineyards, passing rows of gnarled vines, dry-stone terraces, and traditional whitewashed wine estates. Along the way, your Trip Leaders share insight into how the valley’s steep slopes, schist soil, and sun exposure combine to shape the distinctive character of Douro wines.

Your route descends gently toward the riverside Ferrão train station, where you’ll board a short, picturesque train ride that traces the riverbank back toward Pinhão. The track hugs the water’s edge, offering a memorable perspective on the terraced hillsides and quintas that rise above the Douro.

Today’s walk concludes at a beautiful vineyard estate nestled above the river. Here, you’ll be welcomed for a leisurely picnic lunch featuring a generous spread of regional specialties—artisan cheeses, charcuterie, savory tarts, local olives, fresh salads, and sweet pastries—paired with a tasting of fine estate wines and Ports.

After lunch, a short drive returns you to your hotel in Pinhão. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. You might visit the Wine House Museum to learn more about the valley’s viticultural traditions, wander through town and along the waterfront promenade, or simply unwind by the pool or on your private terrace at The Vintage House Hotel.

Later, take a brief shuttle to the D’Origem Olive Oil Museum in nearby Casal de Loivos. Discover the ancient craft of olive oil production—from stone presses to hand-harvesting—and sample freshly pressed oils paired with local tapas. Return to Pinhão for dinner on your own, choosing from inviting riverside restaurants or the hotel’s elegant dining room.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Freixo de Numão to Ruins of Prazo; 1.2–2-mile options, moderate

After breakfast, embark on a memorable river journey through the heart of the Douro. Step aboard a privately chartered wooden vessel modeled after the traditional rabelos that once transported barrels of Port wine downriver to Porto. As your boat glides along the calm waters, admire changing vistas of terraced vineyards, olive groves, and stone-walled estates rising steeply above the riverbanks.

Relax on deck as you savor a picnic-style lunch served on board, featuring fresh regional specialties that reflect the flavors of northern Portugal. A highlight of the voyage is passing through the Ferrão lock, an impressive engineering feat that lifts the vessel nearly 100 feet upstream—an unforgettable part of your Douro experience.

Disembark in the small riverside hamlet of Ferradosa, where you can either ride comfortably by shuttle to your accommodations or join a short but rewarding walk along the Rota das Aldeias Históricas (“Route of the Historical Villages”).

Those choosing to walk begin in the village of Freixo de Numão, following an ancient trail that once linked fortified frontier settlements. The route starts with a gentle uphill stretch on a cobblestone road, then descends briefly before ascending gradually toward the atmospheric Prazo archaeological site. Along the way, enjoy wide views over a landscape dotted with rocky forests, almond trees, and olive groves. Your walk culminates in a guided visit to the ruins, where evidence of human occupation spans from prehistory through the Roman period and into the Middle Ages—a true journey through time.

Rejoin your shuttle for the drive to the historic village of Marialva, where you’ll stay for the next two nights.

Your home is Casas do Côro, a beautifully restored cluster of stone houses tucked within the walls of Marialva’s ancient fortress. Combining rustic authenticity with modern comfort, this tranquil hideaway features gardens, terraces, and panoramic valley views. Guest rooms showcase natural materials and warm lighting, while amenities include a serene pool and a small wellness area—perfect for unwinding after a day outdoors.

This evening is at your leisure. You may choose to dine at the hotel’s refined restaurant, enjoy a lighter meal at the pool bar, or, for those who wish to venture out, take a short taxi ride to the nearby town of Mêda, where local cafés and taverns offer additional dining options.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Loop walk at Faia Brava Nature Reserve; 1.2–3-mile options, easy to moderate

After a leisurely breakfast in the tranquil setting of your hilltop retreat, depart for a short transfer to Faia Brava, Portugal’s first private nature reserve. Situated in a dramatic, rocky landscape above the Côa River, this protected area is at the forefront of Europe’s rewilding movement.

Your walk here is led by an official reserve guide, who will introduce you to the region’s unique flora and fauna as well as the pioneering conservation work underway. As you traverse the ravines and open hillsides, keep watch for birds of prey soaring overhead and semi-wild Garrano horses grazing among the scrub. You’ll also learn about the reserve’s sophisticated rewilding strategies, designed to restore natural ecosystems and support native species.

The loop walk begins with a gentle downhill stretch on a natural path, then descends briefly before ascending gradually toward a scenic cliffside viewpoint. From here, the trail descends again and continues with rolling terrain back toward the starting point. Underfoot, the path alternates between dirt and uneven stones; although the climbs are modest, the terrain can feel rugged in places.

Return by bus to Marialva and enjoy an included lunch at a local village restaurant. Here you can meet residents and savor typical regional dishes that reflect the area’s rural heritage.

In the afternoon, set out on foot to explore Marialva, one of Portugal’s most evocative historic villages. With roots reaching back to the 6th century BCE and a royal charter granted in 1179, Marialva once served as a powerful frontier fortress guarding the kingdom’s borders. Granite houses, winding lanes, and fortified walls appear almost sculpted into the hillside, preserving centuries of history in their weathered stone.

A guided walk leads you up to the castle ruins, where sweeping views reveal the rugged terrain that once defined this strategic stronghold. Along the way, your guide will share stories of ancient settlers, Moorish influences, and the families who have kept this village alive through the ages.

You’ll then have free time to explore at your own pace—perhaps strolling among terraced fields, stone walls, vineyards, and fruit trees surrounding the village, or simply relaxing on the pool terrace at Casas do Côro, with views stretching over the rolling countryside.

This evening, gather one final time for a farewell dinner at your hotel. The menu features cherished family recipes lovingly passed down to the owners of Casas do Côro, celebrating the authenticity and warmth of Portuguese country cooking—a fitting finale to your unforgettable journey through the landscapes, flavors, and traditions of northern Portugal.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Shortly after breakfast, depart by private shuttle for the approximately four-hour journey to Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital. Along the way, you’ll make a few brief stops to stretch your legs and freshen up. There will also be an opportunity to enjoy a light lunch (at your own expense) before continuing through Portugal’s scenic heartland toward the coast.

The tour officially concludes at approximately 1:30 p.m., upon arrival at the Post-Tour hotel, Sofitel Lisbon Liberdade in Lisbon.

Included Meals: Breakfast