Portugal: Walking & Wine - Premium Adventure

All breakfasts, two lunches, three dinners and three wine tastings are included.

Porto and the Douro Valley are known for their excellent wines and the delicious regional cuisine which makes use of the natural resources found here. All meals have strong links with the land and sea, often prepared following old traditional recipes. Local specialities include caldo verde, a cabbage soup that originated here thanks to the fertile green fields. Portugal also has some of the best fish in the world, and in this region a lot of the fish comes from the Douro River. The Douro region is also well-known for an endless number of meat dishes, including roasted goat with rice and potatoes, wild boar stew, posta mirandes (veal steak) and cozido à portuguesa (boiled meat, sausages and cabbage). The francesinha is unmissable – a multi-layered sandwich comprising cheese, ham, steak and sausage, topped with a fried egg and coated in a spicy tomato sauce.

Although meat and fish dishes are typically the focal point of Portuguese cuisine, vegetarian and vegan options have become more widely available in recent years, particularly in cosmopolitan cities such as Lisbon and Porto. Please let us know of any dietary requirements in advance so we can best accommodate your request.

The Douro Valley, birthplace of port, is one of the oldest and most beautiful wine regions in the world. Considering the importance of the Alto Douro Wine Region, Unesco recognised it as a World Heritage site in 2001. Port is a fortified wine produced under particular and unique conditions. It is still produced in the traditional way, during which the fermentation process is stopped by adding spirits distilled from wine, and the blending of wines and aging still play a vital role. Port wines can be red, white or rosé and during the trip there will be plenty of opportunities to try the different varieties. Vinho verde is also an excellent wine produced in this area. Naturally light and fresh, it is fruity, easy to drink, great as an aperitif or served with light meals.

Transport from and to the airport is by minibus. Other transport mentioned in the itinerary as an integral part of the guided walks is also included and is by private vehicle.

Accommodation on your Portugal: Walking and Wine – Premium Adventure has been selected for its style, location and excellent service. We have chosen unique properties that give a sense of the history and culture of the region, while offering the ultimate comfort and hospitality. The properties vary between departure dates – please see below for more details.

Douro Valley, three nights

Hotel Régua Douro 

Riverside property with an outdoor pool, restaurant and games room

In the heart of Régua town with local amenities on the doorstep

Classically designed, spacious rooms

Basto region, three nights

Água Hotels Mondim de Basto 

Contemporary feel throughout the hotel

Outdoor infinity pool, indoor pool and extensive spa facilities

Excellent views of the surrounding mountains and River Tâmega

Porto, one night

Neya Hotel 

Located on the banks of the Douro River

A converted convent – many original features preserved during its restoration

The Skybar provides views for miles over the city and river

Named tour leader, chosen for their expertise

All listed activities

Tipping for all hotel staff, local staff and drivers

Well-marked trails and paths