Exploring the Scenic Douro Valley with Friends

Douro Valley Delights: A Day of Views and Vines

Today was a day of pure sensory overload in the Douro Valley. From stunning vistas that stretched as far as the eye could see to the rich, complex flavors of local wines, every moment felt like a postcard come to life. It’s days like these that remind me why I traded my predictable office life in Kelowna for the unpredictable, yet infinitely rewarding, life of a travel blogger based in Heidelberg.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Vista do Douro. The views were, as the name suggests, incredible. I enjoyed a traditional Portuguese breakfast while overlooking the Douro River, the sun casting a golden glow on the terraced vineyards. It was the perfect way to start a day dedicated to exploring the beauty of this region. The 'vista bonita' certainly lived up to its reputation, setting a positive tone for the day ahead.


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

Our first stop was the Miradouro da Estrada Nacional 222. Lena and I had heard so much about this viewpoint, often hailed as one of the most scenic in Portugal, and it did not disappoint. As we drove along the winding road, each turn revealed a more breathtaking panorama than the last. When we finally arrived, the view was simply mesmerizing. The Douro River snaked through the valley below, framed by rolling hills covered in vineyards. The vibrant colors of the landscape were a feast for the eyes, and I couldn't resist snapping dozens of photos. I even managed to get a few good shots of Lena, who was equally captivated by the scenery. It was one of those moments where you feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty.


Discover breathtaking views of the Douro Valley at Miradouro da Estrada Nacional 222, a must-visit viewpoint for travelers to Portugal's scenic wine region.

Sometimes, the most breathtaking views are found not at the destination, but along the journey.

After soaking in the views, we made our way to Quinta de Covela, a winery known for its organic practices and high-quality wines. The drive itself was an experience, as we passed through charming villages and more of those picturesque vineyards. Upon arriving at Quinta de Covela, we were greeted by the staff and immediately felt welcomed. The estate is beautiful, with terraced vineyards and stunning views of the Douro River.


Explore the beauty and flavors of Quinta de Covela, a must-visit vineyard in São Tomé de Covelas offering exquisite wines and breathtaking scenery.

We opted for a wine tasting tour, eager to learn more about the winemaking process and sample some of the local flavors. Our guide, Orlando, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about wine. He explained the unique characteristics of the Avesso grape, one of Portugal's iconic white varietals, and how Quinta de Covela is committed to organic farming to foster biodiversity. It was fascinating to hear about the estate's history and their dedication to sustainability.

The tasting itself was a delight. We sampled a variety of white and rosé wines, each with its own distinct flavor profile. I particularly enjoyed the Covela Escolha, a blend of Chardonnay and Avesso with a lovely texture and hints of pear and lychee. Lena, who typically prefers red wines, was pleasantly surprised by the rosé. As we sipped our wine, we wandered through the vineyards, taking in the serene atmosphere and enjoying the warm September sun. It was a perfect blend of education and relaxation, and I left with a newfound appreciation for Portuguese wines.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurante Da Azenha, a charming riverside spot known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine. The restaurant had a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. We ordered the *cozido à portuguesa*, a hearty stew with various meats and vegetables, and it was absolutely delicious. It was the perfect comfort food after a morning of exploring. Lena particularly enjoyed the *mel com nozes* for dessert, a simple yet satisfying combination of honey and walnuts. The prices were reasonable, and the service was excellent, making it a great value for money.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine with stunning river views at Restaurante Da Azenha in Ribadouro.

After lunch, we decided to do a bit of shopping at Time By Wine in Pinhão. I was hoping to find a special bottle to take back to Heidelberg for my next brewing session. The shop had a wide selection of wines from all over Portugal, not just the Douro Valley, which was great. I ended up purchasing a bottle of Quinta da Pedra Alta Douro Reserva Branco 2019, recommended by the knowledgeable staff. They even shared a bit about the history of Armando da Gama, the owner, and his passion for bringing the best of Portuguese wines to the world.


Experience the heart of Portuguese winemaking at Time By Wine, a charming store and bar in scenic Pinhão, offering exquisite tastings and local delicacies.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Solar Douro for dinner. This restaurant is known for its Mediterranean and Portuguese cuisines, and it had received great reviews for its service and ambiance. We started with the octopus, which was cooked to perfection, followed by the veal cheeks and veal steak. The food was excellent, and the service was attentive without being intrusive. The cozy ambiance and fancy decor added to the overall experience. We finished our meal with a delicious chocolate mousse, paired with a glass of house wine. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine with stunning views at Solar Douro in Santa Cruz do Douro.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I'm excited to explore Pinhão Douro Vinhateiro, Miradouro da Foz do Tedo, and Quinta do Jalloto – Family vineyards. I'm also looking forward to unwinding at the Douro Sky Lounge in the evening.

Today was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about experiencing new things. The Douro Valley has a way of captivating your senses and leaving you feeling refreshed and inspired. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

I'm also grateful that Lena is here with me, experiencing all of this. It’s always better to share these moments with someone you love, and her perspective adds so much to our adventures. Plus, she’s a great photographer, so I know I’ll have plenty of amazing photos to share on the blog!

As I sit here tonight, sipping a glass of the wine I purchased earlier, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. The Douro Valley has exceeded all of my expectations, and I'm already looking forward to the adventures that await us tomorrow.