Wine and Wanderlust in Douro Valley

Whispers of the Past, Visions of the Present

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey that took us from the ancient whispers etched into stone to the sweeping, vibrant vistas that define the Douro Valley. It’s amazing how a single day can hold so much history and beauty, leaving you with a sense of wonder and a deeper connection to this remarkable place.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at A Companhia - Museu do Douro. Located within the Douro Museum, it offered a delightful start to our explorations. Klaus and I enjoyed the regional Portuguese cuisine with a modern twist, setting the tone for a day of discovery. The restaurant's artistic ambiance added to the experience, making it a perfect spot to fuel up before delving into the region's rich history. I tried the grilled dourada with bacon and rosemary, while Klaus opted for the pork cheek with pea and ginger purée. Both were delicious and gave us a taste of the local flavors. It's funny, I always thought German breakfasts were the best, but Portugal is definitely giving Germany a run for its money! It's always great to start the day with a good meal, especially when you know you'll be doing a lot of walking.

With our bellies full, we set off to explore the Parque Arqueológico do Vale do Côa. This UNESCO World Heritage site is an open-air museum showcasing Paleolithic rock art, and it was truly a humbling experience. As a lover of history, I’ve always been fascinated by ancient civilizations, and to stand before these engravings, created thousands of years ago, was simply awe-inspiring. The park is home to over 80 sites with rock art and around 1,200 rocks engraved. The engravings, mostly of horses, aurochs, goats, and deer, offered a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of our ancestors.


Explore the stunning archaeological wonders of Parque Arqueológico do Vale do Côa, where ancient rock art meets breathtaking natural landscapes in Portugal.

Our guide explained that the art dates back 25,000 years, proving that early humans were not just concerned with survival but also had a creative impulse. It's incredible to think that these images have survived for so long, weathering the elements and the passage of time. As we walked through the park, I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to those who came before us. It made me realize that we are all part of a larger story, a story that stretches back through millennia. Klaus, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the geological aspects of the site, noting how the rock formations themselves contributed to the preservation of the art. He even pointed out some interesting patterns in the rock that he thought might have inspired some of the artists.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

After immersing ourselves in ancient history, we drove to Miradouro de Santa Marinha, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Douro Valley. And what a view it was! The landscape unfolded before us in all its glory – terraced vineyards clinging to the hillsides, the Douro River snaking through the valley, and charming villages dotting the landscape. It was the quintessential Douro Valley scene, the one you see on postcards, but even more breathtaking in person. I felt like I could stand there for hours, just soaking it all in. The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the occasional bird call. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature. Klaus, of course, brought his camera and spent a good hour trying to capture the perfect shot. He’s always striving for that perfect angle, the perfect light. I, on the other hand, was content to simply sit and admire the view.


Experience breathtaking views and serene surroundings at Miradouro de Santa Marinha, a must-visit tourist attraction in Portugal.

For lunch, we stopped at Douro In, a restaurant in Peso da Régua. The restaurant is known for its Portuguese cuisine, and we were eager to try some local specialties. I ordered the octopus, which was cooked to perfection, while Klaus opted for the cod. Both dishes were delicious, and the service was excellent. The beautiful decor and pleasant ambiance added to the experience, making it a truly memorable meal.


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

Before dinner, we did a little shopping at Douro Gourmet. I wanted to pick up some local delicacies to take back home to Heidelberg. I found some wonderful artisanal cheeses, olive oils, and, of course, port wine. Klaus, meanwhile, was on the hunt for some local crafts. He ended up buying a beautiful hand-painted ceramic tile, which he plans to use in one of his upcoming architectural projects. It's always fun to find unique souvenirs that remind you of your travels.


Explore Douro Gourmet: Discover unique gifts and local delicacies in Peso da Régua, a treasure trove for visitors to the beautiful Douro Valley.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Restaurante Vista do Douro for dinner. The restaurant, as the name suggests, offers stunning views of the Douro River, especially at sunset. We arrived just in time to watch the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant colors – oranges, pinks, and purples. It was the perfect backdrop for our final meal of the day. The food was excellent, and the service was impeccable. I ordered the lamb, which was tender and flavorful, while Klaus opted for the fish. We paired our meal with a local Douro wine, which was the perfect complement to the food and the view. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Miradouro Casal De Loivos and Quinta do Panascal - Fonseca Porto. I'm particularly excited about visiting the Quinta, as I'm eager to learn more about the port wine-making process. Klaus is looking forward to the Miradouro, as he's heard that it offers even more stunning views of the valley. We'll also be having breakfast at Bistro Terrace - Quinta do Tedo and dinner at Veladouro. And, of course, we'll be sure to stop by Petiscaria Douro Bar for a nightcap. It's going to be another day of exploration and discovery, and I can't wait!

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences I've had today. The Douro Valley is a truly special place, a place where history and beauty come together to create something magical. It's a place that I know I'll never forget.

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.