Exploring the Scenic Douro Valley with Friends

Finding Paradise in the Douro: Views, Vines, and Vinho Verde

Today was a day of sensory overload in the best possible way. Imagine waking up to rolling hills covered in vineyards, the crisp morning air filled with the promise of exceptional wine and food, and panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. That's exactly what Lena and I experienced today, and I can't wait to share every detail.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cantina de Ventozelo. This restaurant is steeped in history, once serving meals to the farm workers of Quinta de Ventozelo. Now renovated, it maintains its commitment to local gastronomy and traditional recipes. We sat on the patio, enjoying the views of the Douro and the Ventozelo vineyards while we ate. I opted for the Folar de Vila Real, a traditional charcuterie cake from Vila Real, which is basically bread with pieces of pork baked into it. Lena enjoyed a selection of local cheeses and homemade bread. The coffee, strong and rich, was the perfect start to a day of exploration. The restaurant uses ingredients produced at the Quinta and from other regional producers, ensuring sustainability and a low ecological impact.

Fueled up and ready to go, our first stop was the Viewpoint Sebolido. The drive there was an adventure in itself, winding through narrow roads with stunning vistas at every turn. Located on a small natural hill, the viewpoint offers panoramic views over the Douro River. The landscape was breathtaking, with the river snaking through the valley and terraced vineyards climbing the hillsides. Even though it was a sunny day, there was a slight breeze, making the experience even more refreshing. We spent a good hour there, taking photos and simply soaking in the beauty. It's one of those places where you feel completely connected to nature, a world away from the hustle and bustle of Heidelberg.


Discover the stunning vistas at Viewpoint Sebolido in Portugal, a must-visit tourist attraction for breathtaking natural beauty and tranquility.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Next on the agenda was Quinta das Carvalhas, one of the Douro Valley's most iconic and spectacular properties. Written references to this vineyard date back to 1759. We opted for a guided tour of the vineyards, eager to learn more about the winemaking process. Our guide, Álvaro, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the Quinta, sharing stories and insights that brought the history of the estate to life. The tour took us through the vineyards, Mediterranean woodlands, and gardens, offering a direct connection with nature and the people who work the land.


Experience the rich flavors and breathtaking views at Quinta das Carvalhas, a premier winery in Portugal's beautiful countryside.

The highlight of the Quinta das Carvalhas visit was, of course, the wine tasting. We sampled a selection of their top wines, including a crisp white, a robust Tinta Francisca, and a complex Vinhas Velhas red. Each wine told a story of the land, the climate, and the dedication of the winemakers. The tasting was accompanied by a board of local cheeses and sausages, perfectly complementing the wines. And, of course, we ended with a glass of Port wine, a sweet and fortified wine that is the Douro Valley's signature.

After a morning of breathtaking views and exquisite wine, it was time for lunch. We headed to Douro In in Peso da Régua, a restaurant known for its traditional Douro cuisine and stunning views of the Douro River. The restaurant has a cozy and elegant ambiance, with a decor that reflects the region's history and culture. Lena and I shared several dishes, including the arroz malandro and the açorda, both made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The flavors were rich and authentic, a true taste of the Douro Valley. Of course, we paired our meal with a local wine, a crisp Vinho Verde that perfectly complemented the food.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Douro In, where local flavors meet stunning views in Peso da Régua.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to do some shopping at Loja Tradições. Though I was looking for a travel adapter, which I realized I'd forgotten to pack, I didn't find one. However, the shop was filled with unique souvenirs and local crafts, beautifully capturing the essence of Portugal's vibrant culture. I picked up a few small gifts for my family back in Canada, and Lena found a beautiful hand-painted tile to add to her collection. It's the perfect place to find something special to remember our trip by.


Explore Loja Tradições in Porto for unique souvenirs and local crafts that beautifully capture the essence of Portugal's vibrant culture.

For our final meal of the day, we chose Tasca da Quinta, a hidden gem in Peso da Régua. This small and cozy restaurant is known for its authentic Portuguese dishes and warm, welcoming atmosphere. We started with some tapas, including pimentos confitados com cavala and cogomelos com tomate cherry e queijo mozarela. For our main courses, I opted for the bacalhau à brás, while Lena chose the costelinhas em vinha d'alhos. The food was hearty and flavorful, a true taste of Portuguese home cooking. The sangria was a must-try, perfectly complementing the meal. As we savored our meal, we chatted with the friendly staff and soaked in the lively atmosphere.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Tasca da Quinta in Peso da Régua - a must-visit culinary destination in Douro Valley.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Gaia Residence, our hearts full of memories from the day. The Douro Valley had truly captured our senses, with its stunning landscapes, exquisite wines, and delicious food. It's a place that stays with you long after you leave, a reminder of the beauty and simplicity of life.


Discover comfort and convenience at Gaia Residence, located near Porto's vibrant attractions, featuring modern amenities and a serene atmosphere.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Miradouro de Santa Marinha and Quinta da Foz [sic], and end the day with drinks at Libatio [sic]. It's hard to believe we only have a couple of days left on this trip. I'm already dreading leaving this paradise, but I know we'll be back someday.

Before I end this entry, I have to say that I am glad that Lena and I decided to take this trip and that it has brought us closer together. It is easy for us to get stuck in our daily routines back in Germany, but this has given us time to be together and appreciate the beauty of the world.

Until tomorrow!