Zicasso Travel Stories: Unexpected Beauty in Portugal's Douro Valley

“Portugal is full of stunning scenery with incredible views and fantastic panoramas,” shared Brian. “The interior of Portugal takes you off the beaten path and is quite atmospheric.”

And amongst all the scenic places in Portugal, the Douro Valley stood out as the most impressive for Brian and Yuchun.

Whether admiring one vista after another, especially of the beautiful vineyards set in terraces, or tracing the sharp curves of the Douro River, it's easy to see how the Douro Valley quickly became Brian and Yuchun’s favorite wine region.

Brian shared a moment during a “picnic with a view” as the group of friends discovered the local culinary and oenophilic traditions.

“Everything was seamlessly organized, logistics meticulously planned, the picnic already set up,” said Brian, after arriving at the lookout on private property. “This place wouldn’t have been possible to visit without our travel specialist’s connection to the vineyard owner.”

While the Douro Valley is famous for its wines and has the oldest demarcation of wine-growing boundaries in the world, visiting reveals something more profound than the wine, focusing on the small celebrations of simple pleasures.

With a delicate attention to gentility and captivating scenery, it is easy to find joy around the flavorful food and wine, whether when visiting a vineyard or following a scenic trail.

“Within our group, it was great to see those more serious about their wine enjoy the tasting experience and flavors equally as much as those new to the valley’s selections,” Brian said. “And, even if you’re not a wine drinker nor a foodie, go there for the unique, spectacular scenery!”

Throughout the region, food and wine are an important pair, with grapes and wine production dating back nearly two millennia. Even the stunning country estates support incredible flavors from vintages that have their own histories stretching up to three centuries.

Brian and Yuchun stayed at a hotel right on the river with a view from the lobby and an unobstructed view of the sailboats and terraced mountains from their room’s window.

“The river is huge and winds beneath the texture of mountains adding extra color and a more serene atmosphere,“ Brian said. “In the evening, we walked right outside and stepped onto the private boat for a sailing experience.”

“Every notable wine region has incredible beauty, but these terraces and stunning hilltop views along the river have moved the Douro Valley to the top of our list,” Brian shared.

The Douro Valley has gained prominence and fame for its historical wine production and celebrated flavors, but whether you prefer to sample the wine or bask in the region’s natural splendor, the Douro Valley encourages you to embrace the pace of life.

“Our travel specialists are destination experts, and you can count on yours to design an experience perfect for you,” says Brian.

Like Brian and Yuchun’s group, you can discover the Douro Valley and beyond with the help of a local travel specialist to guide you away from the crowds, uncover more meaningful encounters, or connect you to unforgettable boutique properties along the way.

Find inspiration for your time in the Douro Valley and beyond with our Portugal tours and vacations, or enjoy discovering more information on when to visit and where to go with our Portugal travel guide.