Family Adventure in the Heart of the Douro Valley

A Day Immersed in the Douro's Splendor

Today was a day of pure indulgence, a sensory feast that epitomized the Douro Valley's allure. From the sun-drenched vineyards to the exquisite local cuisine, every moment was a celebration of this remarkable region. It felt like stepping into a postcard, with each vista more breathtaking than the last.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at VOLTA DOURO. The reviews online were a mixed bag, but we decided to give it a try, and I'm so glad we did. The pastries were fresh, the coffee strong, and the views overlooking the Douro were the perfect way to start our day. It's amazing how a simple meal can be elevated by the ambiance. After breakfast, we set off for our first vineyard of the day, Quinta do Tedo.


Discover Volta Douro: A riverside gem in Porto offering authentic Portuguese cuisine and breathtaking views along the Douro River.

Quinta do Tedo was an experience that touched all the senses. As we drove through the winding roads leading to the Quinta, the landscape unfolded before us like a painting. The terraced vineyards cascaded down to the river, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of green. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blossoming vines and the earthy aroma of the soil. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the warm and welcoming staff, who immediately made us feel like part of the family. The Quinta itself was stunning, an 18th-century estate that had been lovingly restored. The blend of old-world charm and modern amenities was seamless, creating an atmosphere of relaxed elegance. Saoirse was particularly taken with the dogs and horses roaming freely on the grounds.

Our tour began with a walk through the vineyards, where we learned about the unique terroir of the Douro Valley and the traditional methods used to cultivate the vines. It was fascinating to hear about the different grape varietals and how they contribute to the distinct character of the region's wines. We even had the chance to taste a few grapes straight from the vine, a truly unforgettable experience. The Bouchard family, the French-American owners of Quinta do Tedo, are passionate about sustainable practices, which resonated deeply with me. They are committed to preserving the land for future generations, a philosophy that I admire and try to incorporate into my own life. The tour concluded with a wine tasting, where we sampled a selection of Quinta do Tedo's finest Ports and Douro DOC wines. Each sip was a revelation, a symphony of flavors that danced on the palate. I particularly enjoyed the 20-year Tawny Port, with its notes of caramel, cocoa, and dried red cherries. Hans, of course, appreciated the robust reds, while Saoirse enjoyed the freshly pressed olive oil.

The Douro Valley is more than just a destination; it's an immersive experience that awakens the senses and nourishes the soul.

Leaving Quinta do Tedo, we drove to Toca da Raposa for lunch. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The drive itself was an adventure, with hairpin turns and stunning vistas at every corner. Toca da Raposa is a charming, rustic restaurant that exudes warmth and hospitality. The staff were incredibly friendly, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. We started with the *Francesinha*, a local specialty that's essentially a massive, over-the-top sandwich. It was delicious, but definitely not for the faint of heart! I opted for the grilled octopus, which was cooked to perfection and served with a side of roasted vegetables. Hans enjoyed the pork cheeks, a tender and flavorful dish that melted in your mouth. Saoirse, ever the adventurous eater, tried the *queijada*, a traditional Portuguese cheese tart, and declared it a winner.


Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at Toca da Raposa in Douro Valley—where culinary excellence meets breathtaking views.

After a satisfying lunch, we continued our journey to Quinta da Foz. This family-run winery offered a more intimate and authentic experience. As we walked through the vineyards, we learned about the history of the Quinta and the traditional methods used to produce their wines. It was fascinating to see how they still make wine barefoot in the traditional winery. The tour guide was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, sharing stories and insights that brought the history of the Quinta to life. The wine tasting was a highlight, with a selection of their top dry wines, both red and white, and their extra virgin olive oil. I was particularly impressed with their *Reserva* red wine, a rich and complex blend of local varietals. Hans enjoyed the *Grande Reserva*, while Saoirse, again, enjoyed the olive oil.


Discover the exquisite wines and breathtaking views at Quinta da Foz, a premier winery in Pinhão, Portugal's stunning Douro Valley.

Before dinner, we stopped by In Douro Bar for a quick drink. It was a small, cozy spot with a great selection of local wines and beers. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. As the sun began to set, we made our way to Figurino do Douro for dinner. The restaurant is located in a beautiful setting, with stunning views of the Douro River. The ambiance was elegant and romantic, making it the perfect place to end our day. The food was exquisite, a modern take on traditional Portuguese cuisine. I started with the seafood soup, a flavorful and comforting dish that warmed me from the inside out. Hans opted for the roasted lamb, which was tender and succulent. Saoirse, surprisingly, chose the fish, and enjoyed every bite. The service was impeccable, attentive without being intrusive. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine with breathtaking views at Figurino do Douro in Melres.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude. The Douro Valley has a way of capturing your heart, of making you feel connected to something larger than yourself. It's a place where time slows down, where you can savor the simple pleasures of life: good food, good wine, and good company. I'm so grateful to be able to share this experience with my family, to create memories that will last a lifetime. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Miradouro do Imaginário for some breathtaking views and then explore Quinta do Jalloto. I'm also hoping to do some shopping at Kopke Wine House. Until then, *adeus*!

P.S. I almost forgot! I managed to misplace my sunglasses somewhere today. And Hans realized he left his portable phone charger back at Gaia Residence. Oh well, at least we have each other and the stunning views to keep us company! This trip has been amazing so far, and I can't wait to see what the next few days have in store for us.


Experience comfort and convenience at Gaia Residence, a 4-star hotel in Vila Nova de Gaia, close to Porto’s historic treasures and the Douro River.