Family Adventure in the Heart of the Douro Valley

Scenic Routes and Olive Oil Treasures

Today was all about embracing the heart of the Douro Valley, venturing off the beaten path to discover its hidden gems. With Hans and Saoirse by my side, I set out to explore the region's stunning viewpoints and delve into its rich olive oil heritage. It's days like these that truly make a trip memorable, offering a blend of breathtaking scenery and authentic cultural experiences.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at A Ver O Douro. The views were, as the name suggests, something to behold. Sipping my coffee while gazing out over the Douro River was the perfect way to start the day. Saoirse was particularly taken with the local pastries, declaring them far superior to anything we'd find back in Berlin. I must admit, I agreed with her. It's amazing how a simple breakfast can become a cherished memory when shared in such a beautiful setting.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine with stunning views at A Ver O Douro in Marco de Canaveses.
Fueled up and ready to go, we hopped in our rental car and set off towards Miradouro da Foz do Tedo. The drive itself was an adventure, winding along narrow roads that hugged the hillsides. Every turn revealed another postcard-worthy vista of terraced vineyards stretching as far as the eye could see. The air was fresh and filled with the scent of wildflowers, a welcome change from the city air I'm accustomed to. We even saw evidence of the Douro Gran Fondo cycling event that took place a week ago. It’s inspiring to see athletes pushing their limits amidst such beauty.


Experience the awe-inspiring views of Douro River from Miradouro da Foz do Tedo, a must-visit viewpoint in Portugal's stunning vineyard landscape.
Reaching the Miradouro da Foz do Tedo, we were greeted with a panoramic view that simply took my breath away. The confluence of the Tedo and Douro rivers created a mesmerizing scene, framed by the rolling hills and verdant vineyards. It was the perfect spot for a family photo, capturing the essence of our Douro Valley adventure. Saoirse, ever the budding photographer, insisted on taking several shots herself, experimenting with different angles and filters. I have a feeling she's inherited my love for capturing beautiful moments.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After soaking in the views, we drove to D'Origem - Museu do Azeite, an olive oil museum that promised a fascinating glimpse into the region's olive oil production. As someone who values sustainable living and appreciates local traditions, I was particularly excited about this visit. The museum was located in a charming old mill, and the moment we stepped inside, we were transported back in time. The ancient machinery and tools on display told a story of generations dedicated to the craft of olive oil extraction. We learned about the traditional methods used to produce olive oil, from the stone grinding of the olives to the slow pressing process. It was amazing to see how much care and effort went into creating this liquid gold.


Discover the rich heritage of olive oil at D'Origem - Museu do Azeite, a cultural gem in the beautiful Douro Valley of Portugal.
Saoirse was surprisingly engaged, asking lots of questions about the process and even volunteering to help with a demonstration. She has a knack for getting involved in everything we do, which I absolutely adore. The museum also offered an olive oil tasting, which was a delightful experience. We sampled different varieties of olive oil, each with its own unique flavor profile. I never realized how complex and nuanced olive oil could be. We ended up buying a few bottles to take back home, a delicious reminder of our Douro Valley adventure. It was interesting to learn about the D'Origem's history; founded in 2001, they are dedicated to producing high-quality wines and olive oils. Their commitment to quality is evident in every product they offer.

Lunch was at Terraçu's Restaurant, a place recommended for its authentic cuisine and stunning views. The restaurant lived up to its reputation, offering a delightful culinary experience with a focus on local ingredients. We opted for the tasting menu, which allowed us to sample a variety of traditional Portuguese dishes. From the savory meat dishes to the delicious cheeses, every bite was a delight. The service was impeccable, and the staff made us feel right at home. And, of course, the views from the terrace were simply breathtaking. As we savored our meal, we couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a beautiful place.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Terraçu's Restaurant in the stunning Douro Valley.
As the afternoon wore on, we decided to indulge in a bit of relaxation at Petiscaria Douro Bar. This charming little bar offered a selection of local wines and tapas, perfect for a leisurely afternoon treat. We sat outside, soaking in the sun and enjoying the lively atmosphere. Saoirse, of course, opted for a refreshing juice, while Hans and I sampled some of the local wines. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. The Douro Valley is known for its petiscos, or snacks, and Petiscaria Douro Bar certainly delivered. The staff were friendly and welcoming, making us feel like locals. It's these small, authentic experiences that truly make a trip special.


Experience the essence of Portuguese cuisine with stunning river views at Petiscaria Douro Bar, the perfect stop in the Douro Valley.
For dinner, we ventured to Restaurante Da Azenha, a charming establishment known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine. Nestled in a cozy setting, the restaurant offered a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a family meal. We savored classic dishes like fresh seafood and hearty stews, each bursting with local flavors. The portions were generous, and the prices were reasonable, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying and authentic dining experience. It was the ideal way to end a day filled with exploration and culinary delights.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine with stunning river views at Restaurante Da Azenha in Ribadouro.
As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the Douro Valley, we made our way back to our accommodation. The day had been filled with breathtaking views, cultural discoveries, and delicious food. It was a day that I knew we would all cherish for years to come. As I reflected on our adventures, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share this beautiful place with my family. The Douro Valley has a way of capturing your heart, and I knew that we would be back again someday.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're planning to delve deeper into the region's wine culture with a visit to the Douro Museum and Quinta de Covela. I'm particularly excited about the museum, as I'm eager to learn more about the history and traditions of winemaking in the Douro Valley. And of course, a visit to a quinta is a must, allowing us to sample some of the region's finest wines and soak in the beauty of the vineyards. We'll also be having breakfast at Cozinha da Clara, lunch at SÃO LUIZ by Chef Vitor de Oliveira and dinner at Sabores do Douro. To round off the day, we'll visit Fonseca Port Wine Cellars. It promises to be another day filled with adventure and discovery, and I can't wait to share it with you all.

“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.” I feel richer every day on this trip, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Until then, saúde!