RS Experiences by Ralfe & Siagh

Mar 84 min read

The guide to plan your visit to Douro Valley

The Douro Valley is world-renowned for its fantastic wines. It is here, in this region, that the famous Port wine is produced.

But anyone who believes that the Douro Valley is just about wine would be mistaken. There you will find stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine and historic cities and villages.

In this article we will leave you with the main tips and our recommendations so that your experience in the Douro Valley is unforgettable.

The first question that arises is how to get to the Douro Valley?

The easiest way is by car. However, think carefully before renting a car. Most of the roads in the Douro Valley are tight, with blind curves and many swerves. We advise you to consider your experience and expertise in driving in these conditions. Remember that driving in Portugal under the influence of alcohol is prohibited.

In addition to driving, you can also reach the Douro Valley by train or boat, however, in the Douro Valley there is no Uber/Bolt service, which will make it difficult for you to move between places.

If you're not thinking about renting a car and don't want to worry about constantly calling taxis, then the best option is to take a transfer and hire a driver. We can help, just get in touch with us.

Another no less important issue is choosing a good hotel.

Here we leave our recommendations for hotels that you should take into consideration.

Six Senses Douro Valley
Lamego Hotel & Life
The Wine House - Quinta da Pacheca
Quinta Nova Winery House - Relais & Chateaux
Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa
The Vintage House Douro
Douro Palace Hotel Resort & Spa
Douro Castelo Signature Hotel & Spa
Douro Scala
Quinta de Ventozelo
Quinta de São Bernardo
Casa das Pipas - Quinta do Portal
Vila Galé Collection Douro
Casa Quinta Santa Cruz
Casal dos Cepelinhos Douro

At the heart of Douro's gastronomy are dishes that reflect the region's agricultural heritage, with ingredients sourced from its terraced vineyards, olive groves, and orchards. Fresh fish from the Douro River, succulent meats, hearty stews, and artisanal cheeses are staples of the local diet. Olive oil, almonds, and chestnuts are also prominently featured in many dishes, adding depth and richness to the flavors.

From rustic taverns serving traditional fare to upscale restaurants showcasing innovative interpretations of classic dishes, Douro's culinary scene caters to every palate. Whether savoring a leisurely meal overlooking the picturesque vineyards or enjoying a simple picnic by the river, every dining experience in the Douro Valley is infused with a sense of history, passion, and the warmth of Portuguese hospitality.

The typical gastronomy of the Douro Valley will not disappoint you.

Here is our restaurant list recommendations.

Vale de Abraão - Six Senses
The River
DOC
Rabelo - The Vintage House
Terraçu's - Quinta Nova
Castas e Pratos
Toca da Raposa
Cantina de Ventozelo - Quinta de Ventozelo
Cais da Ferradosa
Quinta da Pacheca
Quinta do Portal
Bomfim 1896
Cêpa Torta
Cozinha da Clara - Quinta de La Rosa

The wines of the Douro Valley are renowned worldwide for their exceptional quality, rich history, and unique terroir. This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Portugal is famous primarily for its production of port wine, a fortified wine with centuries-old traditions. However, the Douro Valley also produces a diverse range of high-quality table wines that are gaining increasing recognition on the international stage.

The region's rugged terrain, characterized by steep slopes and schist soils, creates a challenging yet ideal environment for grape cultivation. Indigenous grape varieties such as Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo), and Tinta Barroca thrive in this unique microclimate, yielding grapes with intense flavors and complexity.

Winemaking in the Douro Valley is a blend of tradition and innovation, with many quintas (wine estates) combining age-old techniques with modern technology to craft exceptional wines. From rich and robust reds to elegant whites and refreshing rosés, the wines of the Douro Valley showcase the diversity and versatility of the region's terroir.

Visitors to the Douro Valley have the opportunity to explore its vineyards, visit historic wineries, and participate in wine tastings that offer a sensory journey through the flavors and aromas of the region. Whether enjoying a glass of port wine in a traditional quinta or discovering a hidden gem among the valley's boutique producers, experiencing the wines of the Douro Valley is an unforgettable journey into the heart of Portuguese winemaking excellence.

Where to do wine tastings on the Douro Valley?

Here's a list with our recommendations.