Exploring the Historic Vineyards of Douro Valley

A Valley of Views and Vintages

Today, Erika and I embarked on a journey that was as enriching as it was visually stunning. From exploring the legacy of olive oil production to wandering through sun-drenched vineyards and finally, enjoying the sunset with a glass of local wine, the Douro Valley continued to reveal its many layers. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to learn, and to share these experiences with you all.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Bistro Terrace - Quinta do Tedo. The Michelin-recommended Bistro Terrace offered privileged views overlooking vineyard terraces and the Tedo River. We sat on the terrace, the air crisp with the promise of a warm day, and enjoyed a simple yet satisfying meal. I had some eggs and Erika enjoyed fresh fruit and yogurt. The view of the vineyard cascading down to the river was the perfect backdrop to start our day. It's moments like these that make me appreciate the slower pace of life here in the Douro Valley. I made a mental note to try to replicate the tranquility of the morning back in my Heidelberg garden.


Discover exquisite Portuguese cuisine at Bistro Terrace - Quinta do Tedo, where breathtaking views meet delightful flavors in the heart of Douro Valley.

With our appetites sated and spirits lifted, we set off to Quinta das Carvalhas. As an antique shop owner, I appreciate history, and Quinta das Carvalhas has written references dating back to 1759. The estate occupies a prominent position on the left bank of the Douro River. The drive up to the quinta was an experience in itself, with a private road winding through vineyards and gardens. The views from the top of the hill were simply breathtaking – a 360-degree panorama of the Douro Valley. The vineyards planted on steep terraces facing the Douro and Torto rivers were a sight to behold. I could imagine the generations of families who had cultivated this land, their lives intertwined with the rhythm of the seasons. Erika and I took our time wandering through the vineyards, marveling at the old vines. I found myself particularly drawn to the traditional old vines, a complex blend of indigenous varieties. It was a living testament to the region's rich winemaking heritage.


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

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After Quinta das Carvalhas, we drove to D'Origem - Museu do Azeite. Nestled in Casal de Loivos, the museum beautifully blends cultural heritage with the region's stunning natural landscapes. I was eager to learn about the traditional methods of olive oil production, another important product of the Douro region. The museum itself was housed in a restored olive oil mill, complete with ancient presses and tools. I was fascinated by the intricate process of extracting oil from the olives, a method that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Erika, with her librarian's eye for detail, was engrossed in the historical documents and photographs on display. We learned about the different varieties of olives grown in the region and the unique characteristics of the resulting oil. Of course, no visit to an olive oil museum would be complete without a tasting. We sampled several different olive oils, each with its own distinct flavor profile. I was surprised by the complexity and nuance of the oils, a testament to the skill and care of the producers. We also had the opportunity to taste some of the D'Origem's wines, accompanied by local tapas, on the terrace overlooking the Douro Valley. The combination of the stunning view and the delicious food and wine was simply sublime.


Discover the rich heritage of olive oil at D'Origem - Museu do Azeite, a cultural gem in the beautiful Douro Valley of Portugal.

For lunch, we headed to Val Moreira. Located on the south bank of the Douro River, in Cima-Corgo, Quinta do Val Moreira was purchased by XVinus in 2018 and reclassified for wine tourism. The restaurant offered a breathtaking view over the Douro and Tedo rivers. The architecture combined modern elements with rustic touches, reflecting the essence of the Douro. We opted for a table on the terrace, wanting to soak up as much of the view as possible. I decided on the cachaço de porco bísaro, while Erika chose the polvo à lagareiro. Both dishes were prepared with precision and passion, highlighting the best of the local cuisine. The flavors were rich and satisfying, a perfect complement to the stunning surroundings.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Val Moreira in Armamar, where every dish tells a story amidst breathtaking landscapes.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Douro Sky Lounge for a drink. Located on top of the Vincci Porto hotel, the rooftop bar offered fantastic views over the Douro River and the Ponte da Arrábida. The outdoor terrace was the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. We settled into comfy lounge sofas and ordered a couple of cocktails. As the sun began to set, the sky was painted with vibrant colors, casting a golden glow over the river and the city. It was a magical moment, a perfect ending to a perfect day. Sipping my drink, I reflected on the day's experiences. From the olive groves to the vineyards, the Douro Valley had once again captivated me with its beauty and charm. I felt grateful for the opportunity to explore this remarkable region and to share my discoveries with you all. The Douro Sky Lounge is open daily from around noon to midnight.


Experience breathtaking views and exquisite cuisine at Douro Sky Lounge, Porto's premier rooftop destination for unforgettable moments.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Quinta de Covela and Miradouro do Imaginário [If Last Day Of Trip, Merge In “Trip End”]. I'm particularly looking forward to visiting Quinta de Covela, known for its stunning views and exceptional wines. And of course, a visit to the Douro wouldn't be complete without a stop at a port wine cellar. I'm looking forward to sharing those experiences with you all. Until then, saúde!

Tonight, we plan to have dinner at Writer's Place. I have heard that the views of the river and vineyards are exceptional.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine with stunning views at Writer's Place in Pinhao - a true gem along the Douro River.