Wine and Wanderlust in Douro Valley

Adieu, Douro Valley!

As our week-long journey through the Douro Valley draws to a close, I find myself filled with a bittersweet blend of contentment and nostalgia. This enchanting region has captivated Klaus and me with its breathtaking landscapes, exquisite wines, and the warmth of its people. It's hard to believe our adventure is already coming to an end, but the memories we've created here will undoubtedly linger for a lifetime.

Our final day began with a delightful breakfast at A Ver O Douro. We enjoyed the most delicious pastries and coffee, while overlooking the river. It was the perfect way to start our day, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere one last time.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine with stunning views at A Ver O Douro in Marco de Canaveses.

From there, we set off to explore the Fundação da Casa de Mateus, a place that had been high on my list since planning this trip. The Casa de Mateus is a stunning example of baroque architecture, and is considered a national monument since 1910. As we approached the estate, the palace emerged in the distance. The gardens were immaculate, showcasing a formal design that perfectly complemented the grandeur of the palace. We strolled through the grounds, admiring the meticulously manicured hedges, vibrant flowerbeds, and ancient trees. It felt like stepping back in time. I learned that the Casa de Mateus Foundation has a vast archive and library, and hosts many cultural events throughout the year.


Explore Casa de Mateus in the Douro Valley—an exquisite blend of baroque architecture, serene gardens, and rich Portuguese history.

The beauty of the Douro Valley lies not only in its landscapes, but also in the way it invites you to slow down and savor every moment.

Inside the palace, we were transported to another era. The opulent rooms were filled with antique furniture, priceless artwork, and historical artifacts. I was particularly fascinated by the intricate details of the woodwork and the stories behind each piece. Klaus, with his architect's eye, was especially impressed by the structural design and the way the palace seamlessly blended with its natural surroundings. I was hoping to attend one of the concerts that sometimes take place there, but unfortunately there wasn't one scheduled for today.

After a morning immersed in history and beauty, we drove to Quinta da Pacheca for a wine tasting experience. The drive itself was a treat, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the vineyards and the Douro River. Quinta da Pacheca is one of the Douro Valley's most well-known estates. As we arrived, we were greeted by the sight of rolling hills covered in vines, stretching as far as the eye could see. The estate itself exuded charm, with its traditional buildings and welcoming atmosphere.


Discover the serene beauty and rich winemaking tradition of Quinta da Pacheca in Portugal's stunning Douro Valley, a perfect retreat for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Our tour began with a walk through the vineyards, where we learned about the different grape varietals and the winemaking process. The guide explained the unique terroir of the Douro Valley and how it contributes to the distinctive flavors of the wines. I found it fascinating to hear about the traditional methods still used in some parts of the winemaking process, such as treading the grapes by foot.

Next, we moved on to the winery, where we saw the modern equipment used to produce Quinta da Pacheca's award-winning wines. The highlight of our visit was, of course, the wine tasting. We sampled a selection of their finest wines, including both Douro DOC wines and Port wines. Each wine had its own unique character, from the crisp and fruity whites to the rich and complex reds. The Port wines were especially memorable, with their intense flavors and smooth finish.

For lunch, we headed to Restaurante Da Azenha, a highly recommended spot known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a rustic charm that made us feel right at home. Klaus ordered the roasted lamb, while I opted for the grilled cod, a Portuguese classic. Both dishes were cooked to perfection, bursting with flavor and showcasing the region's culinary heritage. It was the perfect way to refuel after a busy day of exploring.


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

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Adega Wine Bar in Vila Nova de Gaia for a final toast to the Douro Valley. Located on the 11th floor of the Hotel Vincci Ponte de Ferro, the bar offered panoramic views of Porto and the Douro River. We sipped on local Portuguese wines, including a crisp Vinho Verde, as we watched the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant colors. The atmosphere was relaxed and sophisticated, making it the perfect place to reflect on our incredible journey.


Discover the exquisite wines and stunning views at Adega Wine Bar in Vila Nova de Gaia, a must-visit for wine lovers and tourists alike.

For our final dinner, we chose VOLTA DOURO, enticed by its promise of traditional Portuguese flavors. While some reviews mentioned mixed experiences, we decided to give it a try, hoping for a memorable last meal in the Douro. The restaurant had a lovely view of the Douro River, which added to the ambiance. Klaus chose a steak, while I decided on the fish. While the food was okay, the service was slow. Despite this, we enjoyed the lively atmosphere and the chance to savor Portuguese cuisine one last time.


Discover Volta Douro: A riverside gem in Porto offering authentic Portuguese cuisine and breathtaking views along the Douro River.

As our Douro Valley adventure comes to an end, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we've shared. From the stunning vineyards to the charming villages, this region has captured our hearts and souls. The memories we've made here will undoubtedly stay with us forever. I raise my glass to the Douro Valley, a place of timeless beauty and unforgettable moments.

Although our time in the Douro Valley is ending, our travels are far from over. We will be flying back to Frankfurt tomorrow, ready to return to our cozy home in Heidelberg. I'm already looking forward to sharing more travel stories and tips with you all soon!

Bis bald (see you soon),
Michelle