Family Adventure in the Heart of the Douro Valley

Chasing Views and Vintage in the Douro Valley

Today was a day of sensory overload in the best possible way! The Douro Valley has a way of captivating you with its stunning landscapes and tantalizing flavors, and I'm thrilled to share our experiences with you. From panoramic viewpoints to exquisite wine tastings, every moment was a cherished memory in the making.

Our day began, as most do on vacation, with a relaxed breakfast at Writer's Place. It was a quaint spot, and though I'm not usually one for writing while traveling, I could see how the views of the Douro could inspire anyone. Saoirse was especially excited about the fresh pastries, a far cry from our usual Berlin breakfasts. Fuelled up, we set off to explore the valley, with Hans navigating the winding roads. I still marvel at how he manages these narrow, twisting routes with such confidence. I, on the other hand, was happy to just enjoy the views!


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine with stunning views at Writer's Place in Pinhao - a true gem along the Douro River.

Our first stop was the famed Miradouro da Estrada Nacional 222. I had read about this road being one of the most scenic in the world, and it did not disappoint. The viewpoint offered a breathtaking panorama of the valley, with its terraced vineyards cascading down to the Douro River. It was a photographer's dream, and I snapped away, trying to capture the essence of this magical place. Saoirse, always the curious one, peppered us with questions about the vineyards and the river. It's moments like these, sharing the beauty of the world with her, that make these family trips so special. I think it's important to her development to see and experience different places, and not just stick to what is familiar.


Discover breathtaking views of the Douro Valley at Miradouro da Estrada Nacional 222, a must-visit viewpoint for travelers to Portugal's scenic wine region.

The Douro Valley isn't just a feast for the eyes; it's a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

Next on our itinerary was Quinta do Vesúvio, a name that evokes images of grand estates and exceptional wines. The drive there was an adventure in itself, with hairpin turns and stunning vistas at every corner. As we approached the Quinta, we were struck by its imposing presence, perched high on a hill overlooking the Douro River. We opted for the tour, eager to learn about the estate's history and winemaking process. Our guide, a charming local with a wealth of knowledge, led us through the vineyards, explaining the unique terroir and the traditional methods used to cultivate the grapes. I found it fascinating to learn about the foot treading in granite lagares, a practice that has been preserved for centuries. The aroma of the cellars was intoxicating, a blend of oak, fruit, and history. Of course, no visit to a Quinta is complete without a tasting. We sampled a selection of Vesúvio's finest Douro DOC wines and Vintage Ports. Each sip was an explosion of flavors, a testament to the passion and dedication of the winemakers. I particularly enjoyed the Quinta do Vesuvio Red 2021. The children were treated to some grape juice and given a tour of the grounds, which they seemed to enjoy just as much as we enjoyed the wine. It was interesting to learn that the Symington family acquired the Quinta in 1989, and that they have British and Portuguese origins.


Experience the magic of Quinta do Vesúvio, a stunning winery in the Douro Valley, where rich traditions meet breathtaking landscapes and exceptional wines.

Lunch was at Val Moreira, and it was a delightful experience. The restaurant offered panoramic views of the valley, and the traditional Portuguese cuisine was simply divine. We savored dishes like *Bacalhau à Brás* and *Arroz de Marisco*, accompanied by a crisp Vinho Verde. Hans, ever the adventurous eater, even tried the *Tripas à Moda do Porto* (tripe stew), a local delicacy. Saoirse, though, stuck to the grilled fish, a safe choice that she thoroughly enjoyed. The service was impeccable, and the staff were warm and welcoming, making us feel right at home. We learned that the Vila Galé Douro Vineyards hotel has an exquisite restaurant, so this seems to be a popular place to dine.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Val Moreira in Armamar, where every dish tells a story amidst breathtaking landscapes.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to indulge in a bit of relaxation at Libatio, a local bar known for its tapas and wine selection. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and we enjoyed a few glasses of local wine while sampling some delicious *petiscos* (Portuguese snacks). The beautiful decor added to the charm, and it was the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. Nicole Paloux wrote a great review of Libatio, and said that they will return any time they are in the Douro Valley.


Experience the finest wines of the Douro Valley at Libatio, a cozy and elegant wine bar in Peso da Régua, Portugal.

Dinner was at Solar Douro, a restaurant recommended by several locals. The setting was idyllic, with a terrace overlooking the vineyards. The food was exceptional, a modern take on traditional Portuguese dishes. I opted for the *Polvo à Lagareiro* (octopus with potatoes), while Hans chose the *Leitão Assado* (roast suckling pig). Saoirse, again, went for the grilled fish, a testament to her unwavering preferences. The meal was a perfect ending to a perfect day, a celebration of the Douro Valley's culinary delights. We enjoyed hearing about the property description, with its elegant holiday home and year-round outdoor swimming pool.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine with stunning views at Solar Douro in Santa Cruz do Douro.

As the sun set, casting a golden glow over the valley, we made our way back to our accommodation, our hearts full of memories. The Douro Valley had exceeded all our expectations, a place of breathtaking beauty, exquisite wines, and warm hospitality. It's a destination that will stay with us long after we've left, a reminder of the simple pleasures in life: good food, good wine, and good company. I am so glad that I am able to share these experiences with my family. I am also glad that we are here in May, as the weather has been absolutely gorgeous.

Tomorrow, we're venturing into the Parque Natural do Douro Internacional, eager to explore the wilder side of this region. I've heard tales of stunning landscapes and unique wildlife, and I can't wait to share our adventures with you. We will have breakfast at Cantina de Ventozelo, lunch at Manjar do Douro, and dinner at Restaurante Vila Douro Régua. We will also be stopping by Loja Tradições to do some shopping. Until then, *adeus*!

I'm starting to consider what I might want to do when I retire. I'm not sure that I will want to continue to teach ESL. Perhaps I could do something with travel, seeing as I enjoy it so much.