Exploring the Vineyards and Scenery of Douro Valley

Whispers of the Ancients

Today was a day of delving deep into the past, a journey that took us back thousands of years to a time when early humans left their mark on the very rocks beneath our feet. It’s a humbling experience to stand where they stood, to see what they saw, and to try to understand what they were trying to communicate through their art. The Douro Valley continues to surprise and enchant, revealing layers of history and culture with each passing day.

The morning began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Da Azenha. It was a quaint, cozy spot. After fueling up for the day, we set off to explore the Parque Arqueológico do Vale do Côa. I was excited, and Ana was, too. I made sure to pack my camera to capture the ancient art. It's not every day you get to witness something that old.


Explore the stunning archaeological wonders of Parque Arqueológico do Vale do Côa, where ancient rock art meets breathtaking natural landscapes in Portugal.
As we drove, the landscape transformed, becoming more rugged and untamed. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of the wild vegetation that thrives in this region. The anticipation grew with every kilometer, a sense of excitement bubbling within me. I thought about Luka, and how much he would have loved to see the drawings. I promised myself I'd bring him back some day.

Finally, we arrived at the Parque Arqueológico do Vale do Côa, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Côa Valley is home to an extensive collection of Paleolithic rock art, and I was eager to see it with my own eyes. We met our guide, who was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the art and history of the valley. He led us to several different sites, each one containing unique and fascinating engravings.

The rock art was incredible. The engravings, depicting animals such as horses, deer, and bison, were remarkably well-preserved, considering they were created thousands of years ago. Our guide explained the various theories about the purpose and meaning of the art, offering insights into the lives and beliefs of the people who created them. It was fascinating to learn about the techniques they used, carving into the rock with primitive tools, and the stories they were trying to tell.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Standing before these ancient artworks, I felt a profound connection to the past. It was a reminder that humans have always been driven to create, to express themselves, and to leave their mark on the world. It was a humbling experience, one that made me reflect on my own place in the long arc of human history. I snapped a few photos, trying to capture the essence of the art, but I knew that no image could truly convey the feeling of standing there, surrounded by these ancient whispers.

After spending several hours exploring the rock art sites, we drove to Fraga do Cão - Açoreira, a viewpoint that offers stunning panoramic views of the Douro Valley. The view was breathtaking. The rolling hills, terraced vineyards, and winding river created a picturesque scene that seemed straight out of a painting. I took a few moments to simply soak it all in, appreciating the beauty and tranquility of the landscape. The Fraga do Cão itself, a rock formation resembling a dog, added a touch of whimsy to the already stunning vista.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and serene views at Fraga do Cão - Açoreira, a must-visit natural attraction in Portugal.
For lunch, we stopped at Writer's Place in Vila Nova de Foz Côa. I'd heard that it was a restaurant that serves local produce, and the chef changes the menu daily as per availability. It was a charming little restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. The food was delicious, showcasing the fresh, local ingredients of the region. I savored every bite, enjoying the flavors and textures that were so unique to this part of Portugal.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine with stunning views at Writer's Place in Pinhao - a true gem along the Douro River.
After lunch, we indulged in some local shopping at Aneto Wines. The Douro Valley is famous for its wine production, and I wanted to bring back a few bottles to share with friends and family. The staff was knowledgeable and helpful, guiding us through the selection process and offering tastings of various wines. I ended up purchasing a few bottles of red and white wine, as well as a bottle of port, a fortified wine that is a specialty of the region. The vineyard focuses on sustainable practices, avoiding synthetic products in both vineyards and winery. It was founded in 2001, so it's relatively new, which I found intriguing.


Explore the exquisite selection of local wines at Aneto Wines in Peso da Régua, where tradition meets exceptional taste in the heart of Portugal's wine country.
As the day drew to a close, we had dinner at Tasca da Quinta, also in Vila Nova de Foz Côa. This restaurant was a bit more traditional, serving hearty, rustic dishes that were full of flavor. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the food and company. I ordered a local specialty, a stew made with beans, vegetables, and various cuts of meat. It was rich, comforting, and the perfect way to end a day of exploring.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Tasca da Quinta in Peso da Régua - a must-visit culinary destination in Douro Valley.
Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the history and beauty of the Douro Valley. The Parque Arqueológico do Vale do Côa was a highlight, a reminder of the enduring power of art and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. The stunning views from Fraga do Cão, the delicious food, and the friendly people all contributed to a memorable day.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Douro Museum and the Viewpoint of São Leonardo de Galafura. I'm looking forward to learning more about the history and culture of the region, as well as taking in more of the breathtaking views. We'll also be having breakfast at Ruby Douro Cafe and Restaurant, lunch at Veladouro, and dinner at Douro In. I'm also keen to check out Adega Wine Bar in the evening.

As I sit here, writing this entry, I'm filled with a sense of contentment. The Douro Valley has a way of slowing things down, of making you appreciate the simple things in life. It's a place where you can connect with the past, savor the present, and look forward to the future. I'm grateful for this experience, for the opportunity to share it with Ana, and for the memories we are creating together. This trip has already become one of the highlights of our travels, and I know that it will stay with me long after we leave.

I am also happy I didn't forget any of the essentials today, especially my camera! I will need to make sure to buy a travel adapter and sunglasses soon, though.

I am eager to see what tomorrow will bring, and to continue exploring the wonders of the Douro Valley.

I am so excited to share these experiences with you all, and I hope that you are enjoying this journey through the Douro Valley with me. Until tomorrow!