Exploring the Vineyards and Scenery of Douro Valley

A Day Among the Vines

Today was a day of spectacular sights and delightful tastes, a true immersion into the heart of the Douro Valley. From the panoramic views that stretched as far as the eye could see to the rich, complex flavors of the local cuisine and wine, every moment felt like a celebration of this beautiful region. I'm excited to share the details of our adventures, as Ana and I explored some of the most remarkable spots the valley has to offer.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Manjar do Douro in Lamego. It was a quaint spot, and I enjoyed a traditional Portuguese breakfast – strong coffee and a ‘pão com manteiga’ (bread with butter). It's simple, but sets you up for a day of exploring. Fueled up, we set off for our first destination: Quinta do Vesúvio.


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

The drive to Quinta do Vesúvio was an experience in itself. The winding roads offered breathtaking views of the terraced vineyards clinging to the steep hillsides. As a software engineer, I usually deal with lines of code, but seeing this landscape, shaped by both nature and human hands, was a powerful reminder of the beauty that exists outside the digital world. I thought of Luka back home and how much he would have enjoyed running around the vineyards.

Quinta do Vesúvio is a name synonymous with quality in the Douro Valley. The Symington family, who also own renowned houses like Graham's and Dow's, ensures that the estate maintains its reputation for excellence. We opted for the Pombal do Vesúvio, and it was a delightful choice. The wine had a deep ruby color and an intense aroma, with hints of wild berries and a subtle smokiness from the oak aging. It was concentrated and opulent, yet balanced with elegance – a true representation of the Douro terroir. I appreciated the rockrose perfume, which reminded me of hiking in the Swiss Alps, a familiar scent from home.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are those that engage all your senses, leaving you with a feeling of complete harmony with your surroundings.

After our wine tasting, we headed to Miradouro de São Salvador do Mundo. This isn't just any viewpoint; it's a sanctuary perched high above the Douro, offering a panoramic vista that's truly awe-inspiring. The sanctuary itself is a collection of chapels, each with its own story and significance. As we climbed the hill, we passed several small chapels, each one a testament to the region's rich religious history. According to local lore, this site has been a place of human occupation since pre-Roman times. The panoramic view from the top was breathtaking. We could see the Douro River snaking through the valley, the terraced vineyards stretching as far as the eye could see, and the distant hills fading into the horizon. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to appreciate the grandeur of nature and the beauty of the Douro Valley. Ana was taking some amazing photos, she has a great eye for detail.


Explore the breathtaking views of Douro River Valley at Miradouro de São Salvador do Mundo, a must-visit scenic spot in Portugal.

For lunch, we made our way to Bistro Terrace at Quinta do Tedo. This restaurant is known for its sustainable approach, favoring small producers and combining fresh, local ingredients with the award-winning wines of Quinta do Tedo. The view from the terrace was stunning, overlooking the Tedo River and the surrounding vineyards. We started with the classic Portuguese savories, followed by the ‘Alheira’, potato, and egg starter. For the main course, I chose the Bísaro pork loin with apple purée and potato terrine, while Ana enjoyed the Corvina. Each dish was expertly prepared and beautifully presented. The pork was tender and flavorful, perfectly complemented by the sweetness of the apple purée, and the Corvina was fresh and delicate. The meal was harmonized with Quinta do Tedo Reserva wines, enhancing the flavors of the food and creating a truly memorable dining experience. The service was impeccable, and the staff were knowledgeable and passionate about the food and wine they served.


Discover exquisite Portuguese cuisine at Bistro Terrace - Quinta do Tedo, where breathtaking views meet delightful flavors in the heart of Douro Valley.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Douro à Mesa in Peso da Régua for dinner. This restaurant is known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine and warm, inviting atmosphere. We started with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, followed by the ‘Bacalhau à Brás’, a traditional codfish dish. For the main course, I chose the ‘Arroz de Marisco’, a seafood rice dish, while Ana opted for the ‘Carne de Porco à Alentejana’, pork with clams. Each dish was hearty and flavorful, showcasing the best of Portuguese cuisine. The seafood rice was rich and satisfying, and the pork with clams was tender and savory. The meal was accompanied by a local Douro wine, adding to the overall experience. I was reminded of my mother's cooking back in Slovenia, hearty and full of flavour. Ana and I shared stories and laughed, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and the delicious food.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Douro à Mesa, where local flavors meet breathtaking views in Peso da Régua.

To end the day, we decided to visit the Douro Sky Lounge for a nightcap. Perched atop the Vincci Porto Hotel, this rooftop bar offers stunning views of the Arrabida bridge and the Douro River. The atmosphere was lively yet relaxed, with comfortable lounge sofas and bar stools. We enjoyed a couple of cocktails, taking in the panoramic views and the cool night air. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and indulgence.


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

Reflecting on the day, I'm struck by the incredible diversity of experiences the Douro Valley has to offer. From the panoramic views and historic sites to the exquisite wines and delectable cuisine, every moment was a celebration of this beautiful region. As we prepare for tomorrow's adventures, which include a visit to Miradouro da Estrada Nacional 222 and Quinta da Foz, I'm filled with anticipation for what lies ahead. I'm also reminded of how fortunate I am to share these experiences with Ana, whose passion for travel and photography adds so much to our adventures.

I’m also thinking of Luka and how he would have enjoyed running around the vineyards. Perhaps next time we will bring him along. For now, I'll just have to share the stories and photos with him when we get back to Zurich. And maybe bring him a bottle of Pombal do Vesúvio to enjoy.

Until tomorrow!