Family Adventure in the Heart of the Douro Valley

A Day Among the Vines

Today was everything I imagined the Douro Valley to be: sun-drenched vineyards, the gentle flow of the Douro River, and the rich, intoxicating aroma of port wine. It was a day of exploration, indulgence, and creating memories with my family amidst some of the most stunning landscapes Portugal has to offer. After a delightful day of wine tasting and vineyard exploration, I'm excited to share all the details with you.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Vista do Douro. The restaurant lived up to its name, offering panoramic views of the Douro River as it snaked through the valley. The kids were captivated by the scenery, and even Hans, ever the pragmatist, was impressed. I savored my *galão* and a *pastel de nata*, feeling the warmth of the coffee and the sweetness of the custard tart energize me for the day ahead. Saoirse enjoyed some fresh fruit, excited for the day ahead.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine with stunning views at Restaurante Vista do Douro in Peso da Régua.

After breakfast, we drove to Pinhão Douro Vinhateiro. The drive itself was an experience, with winding roads offering glimpses of terraced vineyards cascading down to the riverbanks. The landscape was dotted with colorful wildflowers, adding to the picturesque scene. It was easy to see why this region is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The weather was lovely with scattered clouds.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Pinhão Douro Vinhateiro, a picturesque village in the heart of Portugal's famed wine region, ideal for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Our first stop was Quinta do Bomfim. This estate, managed by the Symington family for five generations, is steeped in history and tradition. We opted for a tour that included a walk through the vineyards and a tasting of their renowned port wines. The vineyard walk was particularly enjoyable. Saoirse was full of questions, and our guide, Marta, was incredibly knowledgeable, explaining the different grape varietals and the unique terroir of the Douro Valley. I was impressed with the organization of their walking paths.


Experience the breathtaking landscapes and exquisite Port wines at Quinta do Bomfim, a must-visit vineyard in the heart of the Douro Valley.

The Douro Valley isn't just about wine; it's about the stories, the families, and the traditions that have shaped this land for centuries.

The views from the Quinta were breathtaking. The terraced vineyards stretched as far as the eye could see, creating a tapestry of green and gold. It was a sight that truly captured the essence of the Douro Valley. We learned that Quinta do Bomfim takes its name from Vale do Bomfim, meaning “the well-placed valley,” which refers to the region around Pinhão.

Following our vineyard tour, we indulged in a tasting of Quinta do Bomfim's port wines. Even Saoirse enjoyed a taste of grape juice. I savored the rich, complex flavors of the vintage ports, while Hans, surprisingly, found a new appreciation for the fortified wine. We learned about the unique process of making port wine, from the hand-picking of the grapes to the aging in oak barrels. The tasting room was lovely, with beautiful wood beam ceilings and lots of natural light. I was impressed that Quinta do Bomfim is the global winner of the Best of Wine Tourism 2024 award.

For lunch, we had reservations at DOC - Chef Rui Paula. This modern restaurant, situated on the banks of the Douro River, offered stunning views and innovative cuisine. Chef Rui Paula is a renowned figure in Portuguese gastronomy, known for his Michelin-starred restaurants and creative dishes. Although DOC does not have a Michelin star, there are several fine dining options in the Douro Valley. The restaurant's setting was beautiful, right on the Douro River between Régua and Pinhão.


Experience culinary excellence with stunning river views at DOC - Chef Rui Paula in Portugal's enchanting Douro Valley.

The menu at DOC was a celebration of Portuguese flavors, with a modern twist. I opted for the roasted octopus, while Hans chose the veal tenderloin. Saoirse enjoyed a simple pasta dish, which the chef kindly prepared for her. The food was exquisite, each dish a work of art, and the service was impeccable. It was indeed a sensory and cultural experience.

In the late afternoon, we took a relaxing boat trip along the Douro River. We boarded at the Pinhão pier. The boat meandered along the calm waters, offering a different perspective of the vineyards and quintas that lined the riverbanks. The sun began to dip towards the horizon, casting a golden glow over the landscape. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to visit Douro Sky Lounge for a pre-dinner drink. Located on the rooftop of the Vincci Porto Hotel , this stylish lounge offered panoramic views of the Douro River and the surrounding hills. We ordered cocktails and tapas, savoring the last moments of daylight as we watched the sunset over the valley. Saoirse enjoyed a refreshing lemonade, while Hans and I toasted to another unforgettable day in Portugal. The Douro Sky Lounge has an eclectic mix of bar stools and sofa lounges.


Experience breathtaking views and exquisite cuisine at Douro Sky Lounge, Porto's premier rooftop destination for unforgettable moments.

Dinner was at Douro Velho, a charming restaurant in Pinhão. This restaurant offered a more traditional Portuguese dining experience, with hearty dishes and local wines. I chose the *cozido à portuguesa*, a traditional stew with various meats and vegetables, while Hans opted for the grilled cod. Saoirse enjoyed some delicious pasta. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the food was comforting and delicious. The staff was very friendly.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Douro Velho with stunning river views and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for any dining occasion.

As we drove back to our accommodation, I reflected on the day's adventures. From the vineyard walks to the wine tastings, from the gourmet lunch to the relaxing boat trip, every moment was filled with beauty and joy. The Douro Valley had truly captured my heart, and I knew that this was a place I would never forget. It was the perfect family escape.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Miradouro Casal De Loivos for more breathtaking views and Quinta do Panascal - Fonseca Porto for another wine experience. I'm already looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery in this magical region of Portugal. Good night!