Read today's Portuguese stories delivered to your email Owned by the Durham Agrellos family, Quinta da Marka is a charming retreat on the right bank of the Douro River This exclusive estate offers award-winning wines and immersive agritourism experiences set against one of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. Quinta da Marka is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful escape amidst the beauty of the Douro Valley The Agrellos family’s connection to the Douro region began in the mid-18th century when Carlos Lopes Agrellos settled here the family produced and exported Port wine under the Casa Agrellos brand you can still find bottles of their 1870 Port wine the family has maintained their presence in the region purchased the property now known as Quinta da Marka they rebuilt the pre-existing house and winery transforming it into a modern facility capable of producing high-quality table wines Quinta da Marka is managed by Durham Agrellos (Vinhos) Lda. a partnership between José Carlos and his three sons they have built a reputation for producing exceptional Douro white and red wines including selected harvests and high-quality reserves is named in honor of Marjorie Kathleen Durham Agrellos whose vision played a key role in the project’s success the family entered a long-term joint venture with Quinta do Noval Vinhas da Marka Quinta do Noval terroir series was launched and has been widely praised Quinta da Marka is not just about exceptional wine; it’s a chance to connect with nature and experience the Douro Valley’s cultural heritage The estate’s picturesque location near the Douro River offers a perfect setting for relaxation Whether you’re sipping wine on the terrace relaxing by the swimming pool or exploring the surroundigs every moment spent at Quinta da Marka is a cherished memory The estate invites guests to disconnect from daily life and immerse themselves in the beauty of the Douro Valley It’s an ideal retreat for wine lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway While wine tastings and breathtaking views are central to Quinta da Marka there’s much more to explore in the neighbouring Douro Valley For those eager to learn more about this UNESCO World Heritage site the estate is always ready to propose activities to experience the region’s beauty Guests can also take a river cruise along the Douro River offering a unique view of the valley with terraced vineyards It’s the perfect way to relax and take in the stunning beauty of the region The accommodations at Quinta da Marka provide guests with maximum comfort and relaxation Charming rooms provide stunning views of the vineyards and Douro River Whether enjoying wine on one of the terraces or unwinding inside Sustainability is a core value at Quinta da Marka The family is committed to preserving the Douro Valley’s natural beauty ensuring that future generations can enjoy its remarkable landscape The estate follows organic viticulture practices to minimize environmental impact and protect local ecosystems This commitment extends to the estate’s accommodations and facilities Whether relaxing in the vineyard or exploring the surrounding hills guests can enjoy knowing that their visit supports an estate dedicated to preserving the Douro Valley Plan Your Visit Today and Embrace the Douro Valley Beauty Don’t miss the chance to experience the charm and beauty of Quinta da Marka Book your visit today and embark on a journey through the heart of the Douro Valley and tradition combine to create an unforgettable experience For more information, contact Quinta da Marka at (+351) 930 470 354 We appreciate that not everyone can afford to pay for our services but if you are able to we ask you to support The Portugal News by making a contribution – no matter how small You can change how much you give or cancel your contributions at any time Send us your comments or opinion on this article Reaching over 400,000 people a week with news about Portugal The Douro Historical Train is about to return to the rails with a commitment: to provide a truly authentic and unforgettable experience for passengers who want to embark on this emblematic journey back in time along the Douro River through the unique beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage landscape.This season and given the growing interest and demand for this different kind of historical experience CP - Comboios de Portugal has decided to increase the number of journeys A total of 51 journeys are planned between June and October The first trip takes place on 15 June and the last on 27 October.Those who decide to embrace this advnture will travel on a train made up of an iconic steam locomotive that is almost 100 years old - the CP 0186 - and five historical carriages which will cover the 36 kilometres between Régua and Tua stations (round trip with a stop in Pinhão).The Douro Historical Train transports history in a partnership with the municipalities of Alijó promote local products and enrich the railway tourism service making journeys even more attractive.The programme starts in Régua with an offer of a glass of Port - "Porto Ferreira" On each journey there will be regional entertainment on board as well as sweets typical of the region.There will also be a stop at Pinhão station on the outward and return journeys where participants can watch the steam locomotive being filled with water and admire the famous tile panels that decorate the station's walls There is also a visit to a "Wine House" where you can buy typical products from the region while the steam locomotive is being turned round Leslie Plimpton stands next to her piece “Jean Paul Gaultier” — a 30-by-24-inch dry-point etching with hand-tinting — on Aug 10 at XI Biennial International Printmaking Exhibition’s opening reception at the Régua Municipal Auditorium in Portugal “Alber Elbaz,” monotype by Leslie Plimpton who said: “Alber Elbaz was a fashion designer who sadly passed away from COVID He was previously the designer for the French fashion house Kismet struck Ojai Studio Artist Leslie Plimpton earlier this year when she was recruited via email to exhibit artwork in the XI Biennial International Printmaking Exhibition in Portugal’s Douro Valley this summer — a UNESCO-certified World Heritage Site which has now found a permanent home oceans away “The two pieces I sent to the exhibition are from my series ‘Portraits in Fashion,’ which is a series of portraits of famous fashion designers,” Plimpton said Both pieces will be donated to the Douro Museum’s printmaking collection in Peso da Régua “I was told by the curator (Nuno Canelas) that they have commissioners around the world that scout for artists and their artwork. I did some extensive research to make sure their organization was legitimate. … It was pretty clear to me at that point that what they have done in the past was extensive and showcased the artists in a terrific way on their website: bienaldouro.com It turns out they have been doing this for 20 years,” Plimpton shared The 11th International Printmaking Biennial is showing work by 500 artists from 65 countries — a total of 800 works of art Seventy-one of the artists hail from the United States The exhibition is on display in 15 different venues around the Douro Valley where Plimpton’s work will be featured until Oct Additional receptions were held across Portugal at the Côa Museum the Library of Alijó and the Alijó Municipal Auditorium the artists were treated to a guided tour of 40,000-year-old rock etchings there will be another International Printmaking Exhibition in two years The curator has said he will be inviting me back for the next exhibition which really has me excited!” Plimpton enthused Plimpton will also be showcasing her local works on the Ojai Studio Artists tour from Saturday, Oct. 7, to Monday, Oct. 9. 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Sign up Explore our Food Tours → located near Peso da Régua in the heart of the Douro valley The current owners are the sixth-generation descendants of D a legendary visionary and businesswoman who is now leading the winemaking of this old estate which for years was dedicated exclusively to port and is now producing some great red and white wines Still in the middle of the busy harvest period Ferreira told us that at first he wasn’t very interested in the wine business of the family “My father was one of the managers of Porto Ferreira and then when I [finished my degree in] agricultural engineering he invited me to work here I always wanted to work in farming but not wine specifically Ferreira feels the inheritance and the responsibility of the Ferreira name and times were really hard in the Douro when she lived here.” He is confident that she would be proud of the work the family is doing With two of his own three offspring already interested in wine Ferreira manages Quinta do Vallado with his cousin Antónia and they are all part of the Douro Boys a group of five wine estates who joined forces to promote the wine production of the area with the goal of having standing equal to port which started a bit of a revolution in the Douro wines is that we live here and are 100 percent committed to these projects,” Ferreira said “These businesses used to be run from a distance Quinta do Vallado became known for its red wines with some excellent whites being produced as well And of course the fortified wines are where it all started Antónia almost 200 years ago for producing port and since then it has never left the family Quinta do Vallado started to produce under its own name and stopped focusing on port The family started its tourism operations in 2005 The family opened a wine hotel in another location “It’s an excellent way to transmit our wines and the food as well as our wine traditions,” explained Ferreira More than 30 acres of organic vineyards have been planted in the second estate the region that was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2001 Quinta do Vallado’s 70 hectares of vineyards are planted terraces with local grapes like the red varieties touriga nacional tinta roriz and tinta amarela and whites viosinho The long history of winemaking and widely appreciated production here is owed in part to the microclimate three months of hell”: September is still very hot and the harvest is not easy for those working in the vineyards Francisco Ferreira is enthusiastic about the wines being produced at Quinta do Vallado which have been recognized internationally: “Success comes from the knowledge we’ve collected Besides being endowed with a stunning landscape the Douro “produces some unique wines with local grapes – but at the same time [it can be] quite different according to altitude Ferreira asserts that the region is lucky to produce not only port but also other wines but we’re doing some very consistent [bottles].” Hard work and vision seem to run in the family loading map - please wait...Map could not be loaded - please enable Javascript!→ more information Latest UpdatesCountries Why Join?IL MagazineFree Daily E-LetterVideoOur ExpertsTestimonialsFAQsTopics Living overseas since 2011 Terry and her husband went on a housesitting assignment to Portugal in 2018 and they knew they’d found a place they wanted to call home There is the road less traveled that cuts through the center of the country for those looking for more adventure is the longest national road in Portugal at 739 kilometers One of the longest national roads in the world it is outdistanced only by Route 66 in the U.S below the Spanish border in the city of Chaves and ends at the city of Faro in the Algarve Driving the N2 without stopping along the way takes between six and seven hours but offers little to no enjoyment stopping briefly in some towns while lingering longer in others a charming city with a population of about 42,000 complemented by a medieval castle with gardens offering mountain views in the distance and restaurants dot the city while a well-preserved Roman bridge crosses the Tâmegariver Pick up an N2 passport at the nearby tourist office and have it stamped officially marking the start of this iconic road trip The passport book includes a map and suggests 35 stops along the route with indications of places to have the passport stamped as a nice keepsake Vidago and Pedras Salgadas are both known for their thermal waters and famous spas that date back to the 19th century Vidago has a former palace which has been turned into a pricey spa and hotel while Pedras Salgadas has an expansive park and natural area Since we found no free spots to access the thermal waters Vila Pouca de Aguiar was by far one of our favorite stops along the N2 one of the must-see’s here was a castle situated in the mountains we realized that the castle was nothing more than a small ruined tower and decided it was not worth hiking up to we stumbled upon a tiny village of granite homes where time had seemingly come to a standstill A small community of mostly elderly farmers lived in this village called “Castelo,” aptly named for the castle that once stood nearby we asked permission in Portuguese to take photographs has a population of 51,000 and is composed of stately old homes adorned with wrought-iron balconies A lively central plaza is lined with shops On the outskirts of the city is the House of Mateus a stately private mansion with extensive gardens open to the public by tour only The Mateus family has been producing quality wines for the past 75 years and the opulent house attests to their success Discover why we love a slower pace of life Portugal and info on other European countries in our daily postcard e-letter Simply enter your email address below and we’ll send you a FREE REPORT – Explore the Old World in Laidback Portugal The city of Porto is a popular destination for those who desire to see the spectacular views of the Douro Valley and river by the same name the lesser-known area called the Alto Douro sits virtually unnoticed in the center of the country Tourists here can take day trips along the Douro River Some offer round-trip voyages while others offer train rides back from Porto This was another favorite stop on our road trip Breathtaking views of lush vineyards climbing the impressive hills that surrounded the area Jaw-dropping scenery as far as our eyes could see I could almost taste the fragrant wines that filled the air but that indulgence would need to wait until later a city of 17,000 that sits alongside the Douro River The city once served as a vital component in the country’s wine production and the sale of port wine It was here that the wine was put into barrels and shipped to Vila Nova de Gaia Today the area is dotted with elegant mansions perched on hills terraced vineyards bearing signs with the names of the families who own them sits nestled among the terraced vineyards of the Douro rocky streets leading up to its medieval castle A few handsome churches still exist nearby while locals mingle with friends at nearby cafes The stunning Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedios is where tourists climb the imposing baroque staircase (which has 686 steps) Those who make it to the top are rewarded with a panoramic view overlooking the area Castro Daire is a small village with a cobbled old town and a handful of churches and historic buildings to see historic town center that offers stately fountains and historic buildings A bustling cafe culture offers an animated mix of tourists and locals Not far from the city center is a large university that gives the city a youthful An adorable wooden bridge crossed the river as we watched ducks float by from the wooden walkway The streets were lined with traditional granite houses where locals peered out from open-shuttered windows wondering who the strangers in the neighborhood were Góis is a sleepy village offering a swimming area along the river surrounded by a nice family-friendly green space A riverfront cafe offers cold drinks or a place to chill on a hot summer afternoon Penacova features a family-friendly natural area and beach along the Mondego River Nearby windmills offer a picturesque remembrance of the past are hidden communities in the mountains where homes are constructed from schist a type of flat rock commonly found in the area Although there are 27 schist villages in Portugal We took a brief detour off the N2 to visit a few of these magical gems Some offered lodging for hikers passing through the area on marked trails but most did not offer anything in the way of restaurants or shopping Abrantes is a working-class Portuguese city of about 40,000 that sits on the hillside of the River Tagus Although the city has a castle and some historic remnants livable city with a large shopping mall and a modern vibe Penedo Furado is an area known for its river beach with a waterfall surrounded by green hills and mountains We passed through and moved on to our next destination Água Formosa was a pleasant surprise that took us away from the N2 for a short detour here locals live off the land as they did so long ago Geodesic Center of Portugal is a museum and monument that denotes the center of Portugal Nothing more than a quick stop—this is one of those touristy spots in which to stop and take a photo to prove we have been there Sertã is a municipality in the Castelo Branco district that sits along the Zêzere River this typical Portuguese city has an unusual five-cornered castle that offers views of the Serra da Estrela mountains Another favorite stop along the N2 is the city of Évora in the Alentejo region of Portugal the city of 56,000 has a charming old town the best-preserved Roman temple on the Iberian Peninsula an extensive wall that once served to protect it Évora has a youthful feel because of its large university was a jaw-dropping experience and certainly one of our favorite stops Step back in time and stroll along the streets of this medieval village and just imagine what life was like easily walkable road to see the remains of a castle and even a jail surrounded by breathtaking views of the Alentejo Our trip to Beja was a slight detour off the N2 to find accommodations for the night and to explore this other liveable city in the Alentejo region the city is surrounded by extensive plains of nothing as far as the eye can see Ferreira do Alentejo is a sleepy little village with a few shops and restaurants Right on the main street of the village is a small Aljustrel is another stop in the Alentejo region that was well worth the stop The town is famous for the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus which has 577 zig-zagging steps with 17 landings adorned with elaborate statues Upon closer look we found a road that reached most of the way and offered some of the most stunning views of the Alentejo region we had ever seen has a traditional cobbled town center with a few shops The 18th-century Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição has a stunning interior with a golden altar that serves as a contrast to the blue- and white-tiled walls that surround it Almodôvar is a peaceful little village with a Roman bridge former Chinese-style palace in the center of town it was time to pass from the expansive plains of the Alentejo to the Atlantic coastline of the Algarve But first we would need to tackle the 365 curves of the Serra do Caldeirão a mountain pass which was not nearly as bad as we first thought This area offers nothing in the way of stops for breaks or food Algarvian village with a tiny town center with a church and park A handful of cafes and shops line the streets Faro is a traditional working-class city with less of a touristy feel than the rest of the Algarve it features a small marina surrounded by restaurants The large town center offers an array of cobbled streets lined with shops My final thoughts about the N2 are as follows: Because the N2 is an older road we often had to detour to larger towns to find food and lodging for the night While there are some rural accommodations along the way that provide a room in someone’s home These are not places visited by most tourists so we often found there was no English spoken and had to rely on our Portuguese For travelers with no knowledge of the language Even though it uses the Brazilian version of Portuguese The good news is that even the smallest towns in Portugal have grocery stores and most have a cafe where you can stop for a quick meal they serve as the perfect place to pick up snacks Taking the road less traveled is quite often a rewarding experience and the scenery—from both our travels and the interactions we had with the people who are always warm and wonderful The Best Places to Live in Portugal From $1,600 a Month Portugal Itinerary: How to Spend 7 Days in Portugal Is Portugal a Safe Place to Live? co-founding multiple wine businesses and educating wine lovers about Portugal He was the Portugal contributor to Hugh Johnson\u2019s Pocket Wine Book AVIN (an ISBN for Wine) and the #Winelover Community as well as a Knight of the Port Wine Brotherhood escaping Porto to see the Douro Valley landscape unravel in front of your eyes for the first time is a truly memorable experience As the Douro River navigates its way between steep mountain slopes thousands of intertwined vines and traditional stone terraces form a tapestry of rare natural beauty it has never been easier to reach the valley In a little over an hour’s drive by car you can reach its heart leaving from São Bento train station in Porto is the most scenic way; while neither the fastest nor the most comfortable A premium helicopter service from Porto is also available A visit to one of the Port wine houses is an excellent way to start discovering the Douro and the world of fortified wine. Quinta do Bomfim, a Symington family property, is an estate famous for making Dow’s which has recently opened a modern visitor’s centre with programmes including vineyard visits and tastings. Quinta do Panascal was one of the first visitor centres in the Douro For a more boutique approach, Quinta do Noval is a historic house with some of the most well-preserved terraced vineyards and a manor open for tastings. At Quinta de Nápoles you can witness firsthand how the Niepoort family creates some of the most revered Ports and Douro table wines Visit the Douro Valley during harvest time so that you can join the locals in a 100-year old tradition of foot-treading in stone lagares Contact a few producers before you go to check availability With the region’s long winding roads and spectacular views set enough time to visit each winery and enjoy a relaxed wine tasting The beginning of autumn is the ideal time to visit For the ultimate luxury, stay at the Six Senses Douro Valley and enjoy the views and the pool overlooking the river. For solitude and silence, try Quinta Nova Luxury Winery House an award-winning luxury boutique hotel with only 11 rooms and breathtaking panoramic views over the vineyards make the time to grab a glass of slightly chilled vintage Port sit outside on a hill above the river on a hot night and enjoy the pleasure of the Douro’s famous fortified wines André Ribeirinho is a Portuguese food and wine entrepreneur who founded online wine platform Adegga.com Portugal’s Douro region is famous for its port Sat 21 May 2016 08.00 CESTLast modified on Wed 15 Jan 2025 16.00 CETShareThe Douro river is wild and tamed soul and life force of the region she gives her name to The Douro region is about the size of Suffolk but dizzying mountain slopes are creased and folded and combed with the millions of vines that make those juicy Douro table wines and its celebrated ports Visitors have been welcomed here for centuries but it’s taken until just now for the Dourense region to cotton on to eno-tourism that happy marriage between travel and tippling Though frequented mostly by cashmere-and-smart-slacks travellers the Douro is also a fine destination for the thirsty but thrifty Duplo-like affairs into which you’re tightly packaged and drably excursioned It’s better by far to take the train to Pocinho This is one of the world’s great train rides and soaring riverine views for much of its three-hour route The bus network from here on is sketchy; to get the most out of your visit But be warned: these roads are for confident drivers only Cliffs must be tightly hugged and other vehicles may well be kissed Heroic cyclists with Hoy-like thighs might enjoy the suffering these roads provide tough hours of manual work have gone into terracing and training these great hills of schist into vineyards The visual effect is mesmerising even before the first drinking – sorry these sessions sail along smoothly to begin with Baixo Corgo is westernmost and mostly produces ports to be drunk young Aerial view of vineyard terraces and the Douro river in the Alto Douro region Photograph: Alex Robinson/Getty ImagesThe posh section of the Douro is Cima Corgo whose classy quintas are run by a manicured handful of intermarried wine dynasties often with British and Dutch names and/or branches on their French-polished family trees visitors who stray one vineyard away from the main routes will boggle most locals simply by being foreign sleepy Pinhão with its gorgeous blue-tiled station It also has the fewest people: the only town of any size is Vila Nova de Foz Côa where €7.50 buys me entrance and a schooner of port The museum also provides intensive wine tastings for the unwary and unwise visitor Now needing a sugar hit, outside the train station I spot two aproned ladies with wicker baskets selling paper-twisted rebuçadas, the Douro version of barley sugar. These fuel my two-minute dignified stagger down Avenida José Vasques Osório to Castas e Pratos (+351 254 323 290) It’s a young-ish and stylish food and drinks hangout in an upcycled railway shed its wine list is exciting and affordable (three courses from €30) Castas e Pratos in Peso da RéguaBut I’m feeling more dishevelled than chic so lunch instead at the down-home A Velha Tendinha (around €15 a head It’s a wonderful almost-riverfront grill joint and my octopus grelhado is a charry tangle of spectacular tentacles The rest of the day is spent traversing the sheer breadth of wine styles produced by the Douro’s sheer slopes This is a tiny fumeiro (smokery) where butcher Fernando – part black-clad ninja part naturopath – retails a magical selection of fresh and smoked meats I assemble the picnic hamper of champions and head for the Chapel of São Salvador do Mundo (off EN222-3) a miradouro (viewpoint) that makes the heart soar like the Bonelli’s eagles wheeling below Luis’s other miradouro tip is a stunner as well also has an in-season cafe that serves excellent and sustaining snacks and lunches built like a gin palace over the river at Folgosa Posh nosh at DOC restaurantOn 25-26 June this year, the Douro Boys will hold their annual Feira do Douro, this year at Niepoort where €10 buys you entrance (and a free Riedel glass) plus tastings (natch) and a farmers’ market Dinner is at Dirk’s “secret” tip: 16-seat Papas Zaide (1 Largo de Praça snoozing in the pretty hill village of Provesende Here you eat olives dipped in honey (weird sheep’s cheese and great knuckles of melting meat tinkling the goat bell on your table for cook Graça to bring – yes In the square below is the never-modernised 1940s Fatima bakery where craft baker Antonio José bakes only 180 impeccable sourdough loaves a day In the same square is the bonkers Café Arado (no phone drinks and swims in elegant aristo splendour here There are loads of river excursions offered in both Régua and Pinhão. Most are in the now-motorised vessels that once carried port “pipes” (barrels) down to Porto for maturing. To feel less of a tourist, book a trip on Pipadouro (from €35 +351 939 196 262) which runs two beautifully restored 1950s wooden launches from the pier at Pinhão now bookable for a cosseted night’s stay aboard Drinks flow on board until I no longer know my port from my starboard Sampling wine at the annual Feira do DouroBack in Pinhão, Quinta de Bonfim (+351 254 730 370) has just started offering guided tours ineffable charm – gently insists that I swing up to the two-street town of Favaios small Museum of Bread and Wine is on Rua Direita where the €1.50 entry also scores a tumbler of sweet moscatel that smooths out any wrinkles remaining in my morning ugly modern house with a car park on the right is Padaria Queirós (+351 259 949 514) where Fernanda and her two cousins bake good bread and a stupendous bolo de carne which is what every meat pie wants to be when it grows up And so to wilder, empty Douro Superior. Unlike Cima, Superior has little traffic, though its roads are hardly less tortuous. I drive up to the dog-and-donkey village of Parambos near Carrazeda de Ansíäes, where svelte, sprite-like Puri at Doces da Puri (30 Beco de Jaime) produces extraordinary jams The fruit comes from her heavenly organic garden next door and her tomato-and-port preserve deserves a DOC status of its own Puri’s generosity and energy are matchless she directs me to Taberna da Helena (Avenida Aquilino Ribeira – below the church in Carrazeda) for a sit-down with a platter of chops and a mountain of chips in company with local cattle farmers guided three-hour dusk/night tour of the art in the valley below is a snip at €17 Outside Foz, a small and unlikely turning takes me down (and, worryingly, further down) a steep, twisty, schisty track. My trust is rewarded when it delivers me to Casa do Rio (from €190 a night B&B/wine-hotel) where dynamic Douro Boy João Ribeiro of Quinta do Vallado has built a bridge over a dip in his vineyard Here I join what feels like the Douro’s most chic house party: Danish rosewood Trains run from Porto to Pocinho (€13 each way each way, cp.pt); the really pretty bit starts at Régua. Flights were provided by easyJet, which flies to Porto from Bristol, Gatwick, Luton and Manchester from around £52 return. Car hire was provided by Holiday Autos The famous steam locomotive 0186, the illustrious historic Douro train, is back in operation and you can experience an unforgettable journey along the Douro River, from Régua to Tua, from July to November 2023. Every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday the train whistles its way along the Douro riverside, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wikimedia commonsThe Alto Douro Vinhateiro region caught the attention of UNESCO and in 2001, 24,600 hectares of the region were classified as a World Heritage Site. Among the 13 municipalities included in the area is Peso da Régua- exactly the point where the historic Douro train begins its journey.  The Douro region has fabulous landscapes that will be engraved on your memory. Peso da Régua, also known as Régua, is a city in Trás-os-Montes and the birthplace of the famous and much-loved Port wine. After the creation of the Real Companhia Geral da Agricultura das Vinhas do Alto Douro it became the first demarcated region to distribute wine worldwide. Wikimedia commonsIn Peso da Régua there are several spectacular viewpoints from where you can enjoy the magnificent Serra do Marão, churches and chapels that embrace many believers and the famous Casa do Douro, known for its stained glass windows that tell the story of the wine region.  When you get on the train you automatically feel the thrill and excitement of an unprecedented journey about to begin. The train starts, the charm of Régua is left behind (but never forgotten) and we continue the journey to the next stop. This journey along the banks of the river marks a mixture of emotions and intensity, in the beautiful fashion of Porto.  PixabayInevitably a land of wines, Pinhão is a parish in the municipality of Alijó in the heart of the Douro Vinhateiro, the oldest Demarcated wine Region of the Douro (of Portugal and the world!) and is famous for the terraced landscape of the Douro vineyards and the farms with many stories to tell. Wikimedia commonsPinhão: the first stopThe locomotive refuels at Pinhão station and there you will have the opportunity to admire the tiles that decorate the walls of the station, installed in 1937, and which tell the interesting story of the stages of wine production. Let yourself be absorbed by the power of the green hills that surround you and inhale the pure northern air.  The journey continues on the century old train and the panorama only improves: mountains, plateaus, valleys, small hills... the landscape divides and multiplies in beauty and grandeur when we reach the Tua region. The unique landscapes are due to the particular geography of the area, with quartzite ridges and low-relief plateau areas. It is a naturally beautiful place with little human intervention and great impact. Wikimedia commonsHistoric Douro train: how much does a journey cost?Tickets for a trip on the historic Douro train are €49 for adults (€46 if you're in a group) and €25 for children aged 4 to 12. On board this train you not only enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Douro line, a traditional music group will also entertain you, you can taste the sweets of Régua and savour the famous Porto Ferreira, which has been doing justice to good Port wine since 1751.  If travelling by train already had a special taste, the historic Douro train takes the experience to the next level. we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links Portugal’s picturesque coastline stretches languorously along the Atlantic inviting throngs of sun-seeking tourists to crowd its shores every year Unquestionably one of Europe’s most coveted summer travel destinations the high season unfolds in a crescendo of packed beaches and fierce competition for a seat at one of the many seaside tascas But as the frenetic energy of summer gradually yields to the mellow beauty of autumn No matter where your travels take you—from the endless golden plains of Alentejo to the sparkling southern shores of the Algarve to the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley heavy with the fruits of the harvest—you’ll find a range of intimate design-forward hotels that embody the country’s old world charm and endearing hospitality find the very best hotels and unique stays to book for your fall getaway Courtesy of Quinta do ValladoBuilt in 1716, Quinta do Vallado is one of Portugal’s oldest and most famous wine estates The original 18th-century manor offers five rooms resplendent with antique furnishings and a sense of history the contemporary hotel designed by architect Francisco Vieira de Campos The 158-acre property sits right on the bank of Rio Corgo and offers stunning views of terraced hillsides guests can participate in picking and stomping the grapes Courtesy of Duas PortasWith gorgeous views of the Douro River and marina, Foz do Douro is the charming seaside neighborhood where Duas Portas resides This family-owned townhouse is an oasis of peace amid Porto’s bustling streets the wife of Pritzker Prize-winning architect Eduardo Souto de Moura their daughter Luísa runs the place and welcomes guests like long-lost friends this spot feels like a true home away from home or hop on the tram right outside the door and journey into Porto’s historic center home to Mercado do Bolhão and the iconic blue-and-white tiled Chapel of Souls Courtesy of Casa de São LourençoThe scenic drive to reach Casa de São Lourenço is a harrowing journey along the winding roads of Serra da Estrela But it’s well worth the effort to experience the five-star luxury and panoramic views which become even more astonishing as the leaves paint the landscape in shades of amber and crimson Amenities include the glass-walled São Lourenço Restaurant which serves contemporary interpretations of local fare Furniture by Portuguese modernist designer Maria Keil along with the many snug fireplaces scattered throughout the property lend it the feeling of a modern mountain getaway while Areias do Seixo Villas offers 19 spacious villas The hotel’s commitment to eco-conscious practices is apparent at every turn and recycled materials and reclaimed wood blend seamlessly with the interior decor creating an inviting and earthy atmosphere that echoes the property’s sustainable ethos Set upon a protected stretch of coastline in Santa Cruz Areias do Seixo offers guests access to pristine beaches where the golden sands meet the Atlantic's azure waters and elaborate tilework—is inspired by famed 19th-century explorers Roberto Ivens and Hermenegildo Capelo and pays homage to Portugal's Golden Age of Discovery Courtesy of Hotel das AmoreirasTucked away in the lush garden square of Jardim das Amoreiras, Hotel das Amoreiras is a boutique getaway that radiates a sophisticated yet cozy ambiance Owners Pedro Oliveira and his wife Alicia Valero lovingly restored the once-neglected buildings into a “small grand hotel” with 17 refined rooms from the Portuguese marble in the bathrooms to the plush velvet upholstery in the dining area Views span the verdant Amoreiras gardens—especially striking in the fall—and the iconic Águas Livres Aqueduct the city’s best shopping and dining are just steps away Courtesy of São Lourenço do BarrocalNestled among ancient cork trees and flourishing olive groves, São Lourenço do Barrocal was once a bustling farming village in the 19th century whose family had owned the property for over two centuries enlisted the talents of the renowned Pritzker Prize-winning architect Eduardo Souto de Moura to give the 780-acre estate new life after it fell into disrepair The renovation transformed the old stone farm buildings into a delightful collection of rooms which includes an exquisite meal cooked over the grill featuring vegetables fresh from the garden the farm’s delicious certified organic veal the hotel encompasses three levels that elegantly surround a garden conceptualized by landscape designer Louis Benech Hand-painted frescoes and opulent wood floors meld with a captivating blend of North African and European antiques color-rich home than a hospitality project; adding to that feel is the fact that no two rooms are the same Courtesy of Companhia das CulturasAgritourism boutique hotel Companhia das Culturas sits on 100 sprawling acres of cork oaks and apricot and fig orchards in the Castro Marim Nature Reserve in southern Portugal just a short drive from the delightful coastal town of Tavira The memorable breakfast spread includes freshly picked apricots homemade bread with olive oil and fig preserves and cheese and butter from a neighboring farmstead A marble Turkish hammam is a welcome addition to the rural property and perfectly rounds out the commitment to relaxation Indulge in a massage using products from the hotel’s 8950 line all produced from essential oils and featuring plant extracts native to the surrounding ecosystem Courtesy of Casa MãeA sunny, beachside five-star oasis founded on an unwavering belief in sustainability, creativity, and local sourcing, Casa Mãe is located in the historic coastal town of Lagos including five sophisticated suites in the restored 19th-century estate The restaurant relies heavily on the hotel’s vegetable gardens and thoughtfully selected local producers to round out the menu Local sourcing isn’t limited to the fare: more than 90% of the decor and amenities at Casa Mãe are made in Portugal and most are exclusively handmade just for the hotel The Danish Home Lighting Trend That Can Improve Your Mental Health In America’s Cities, Saunas Are Becoming the Hottest Social Spot Millie Bobby Brown Shares Her Favorite Paella Recipe—and Details About Her Wedding to Jake Bongiovi A Day-by-Day Guide to Hiking the Legendary Nakasendo Trail in Japan Never miss a Vogue moment and get unlimited digital access for just $2 $1 per month also known as “Dia de Portugal” or “Portugal Day.” This day is marked by various celebrations taking place worldwide in the Portuguese diaspora The significance of June 10th commemorates the death of Luís de Camões a renowned Portuguese poet and author of “Os Lusíadas,”  Portugal’s national epic and honors the Portuguese communities abroad The official program of events for 2023 began on June 5th in South Africa where a delegation headed by the President of Portugal visited the expatriate community of 300 thousand Portuguese and their descendants The official visiting delegation included Prime Minister António Costa Minister of Foreign Affairs João Gomes Cravinho The official celebrations will conclude in Peso da Régua and Minister of Foreign Affairs João Gomes Cravinho will preside over the national ceremonies Portugal Day is being celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout the month of June Major festivities and cultural events are taking place from coast to coast consult the list of events of your community The city of New York is honoring June 10th by illuminating the Governor Mario M the longest bridge in the state of New York with the colors of the Portuguese national flag was promoted by the association “New York Portuguese American Leadership Conference” (NYPALC) The Vice-President of the Government of the Azores on behalf of the President of the Government to be present at the sessions of the proclamation of the Day of the Azores in the Assembly and Senate of the State of California as well as in the ceremonies of the Day of Portugal the month of June is celebrated as “Portuguese Heritage Month” to honor the heritage of half a million Luso-Canadians with many events showcasing the Portuguese rich history Google Doodle has also joined in the celebration by adding June 10th to its list of dates to commemorate the Google Doodle honors the Portuguese style of “azulejo,” which is a form of decorative ceramic tilework Google Doodles are known for their decorative changes to the Google logo that celebrate holidays and the lives of famous artists and scientists In 2021, Congressman Jim Costa (D-CA) introduced a resolution to the 117th Congress supporting the designation of June as “Portuguese National Heritage Month.” The resolution co-sponsored by Congressman David Valadao (R-CA) and significant contributions Portuguese Americans have made to the United States the Day of Portugal has been officially celebrated in Portugal and in different locations with only a symbolic ceremony at the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon the 10th of June was celebrated in Madeira the June 10th celebrations in Portugal and abroad honor Portuguese heritage and culture through concerts These initiatives also pay tribute to Portuguese artists and their contributions Camões is celebrated for having composed The Lusiads, Portugal’s national epic poem celebrating the country’s historic achievements The poem is considered to be the most important piece of Portuguese literature and has become a symbol of national pride.  The celebrations involve various military ceremonies and an awards ceremony by the President of the Portuguese Republic the President chooses a city to host the official celebrations For the Portuguese people living abroad, Portugal Day is the time to display their heritage and ethnic pride. It is estimated that over 5 million Portuguese nationals live abroad, about 1.4 million living in the United States with a large percentage coming from the Azores there are sizable Portuguese American communities in Massachusetts This article was published more than 6 years ago The A24 motorway towers over the Douro River in northern-central Spain with the N2 below.douglas Firby/The Globe and Mail there is no such thing as the perfect road Science has found something very close to perfection in a 27-kilometre stretch of two-lane excitement in Portugal’s Douro Valley Route N-222 cuts through the heart of the country’s famous Douro wine-producing region This short drive has everything a driver craves speedy straights and jaw-dropping scenery as it tracks the southern bank of the winding Douro River hundreds of exciting roads around the world it feels as though the mischievous spirits who plotted these serpentine trails had heart-stopping thrills in mind has the elements as beautifully balanced as N-222 a quantum physicist at Britain’s University of Warwick There are stone walls where there should be shoulders and speed limits that are largely ignored by drivers as we zip past the turnoff for Quinta Das Caldas winery.douglas Firby/The Globe and Mail was looking for a way to get people excited about renting sporty cars The company wanted to get drivers out of Puntos and into Porches they began the search for not only the very best road Finding that One Great Road is this big ol’ world is tougher than finding a Lada that doesn’t belch blue smoke yet three experts embraced the challenge: Hermann Tilke a Formula 1 track designer and retired racing driver; John Wardley a roller-coaster designer; and the scientist the team identified four criteria for a great drive: bends The best roads strike a balance between the adrenaline rush of speed and acceleration the skill of cornering and short stretches of straight that allow the driver to enjoy the scenery Hadley spent a track day at Rockingham Motor Speedway with Tilke and then visited Britain’s Alton Towers amusement park with Wardley The team concluded that the ideal driving ratio is 10:1 – 10 seconds on a straight with one second spent on a bend they started sifting through recommended roads from around the world “I got my protractor and starting moving around,” Hadley said in a telephone interview from his home in Warwick Terraced hillsides where old vines grow on the north bank of the Douro River constantly compete for the driver’s attention.douglas Firby/The Globe and Mail Hadley has never driven the road he identified as the best He can’t even say how many of the Top 25 roads he has driven And the experience was not what we expected The full Route N-222 is actually much longer than the award-winning stretch It starts in the Atlantic port city of Porto and wends south and east through hilly terrain before it arrives two hours later at the town of Peso da Regua stomach-churning and exhausting drive through tiny villages that conceal surprises at every corner The area past Pinhao is similar – climbing up steep hills as it twists its way toward the eastern edge of the country do poorly on the ADR because the emphasis is almost entirely on cornering via a motorway.) The stretch of N-222 from Peso da Regua east to Pinhao is walk in the park – unless you push well beyond posted speed limits There are no steep climbs up hills near precipitous cliffs and no single-lane squeeze points a beautiful blend of driving experience and the scenery of terraced vineyards rising above the gently flowing river there are sections where you zip within a metre of concrete retaining walls as you navigate bends with unpredictable radii – sometimes way tighter than you expect Route N-222 cuts through the heart of the country's famous Douro wine-producing region from Peso da RŽgua east to Pinho.douglas Firby/The Globe and Mail terraced hills of vines rise above the Douro River basking gold and red in the late-October sun The road sits practically on the edge of the river before stopping for wine and lunch at the Quinta de Tedo The tightest bends are near the eastern end of the drive as you navigate a hairpin just before landing in Pinhao You can drive the entire stretch in less than half an hour – much less It is a road that virtually cries out for you to break the law But Hadley insists the idea is not to speed – the thrill is in the scenery because he has been through the valley on a train that traces the north shore of the river a 25-year-old Iveco truck – a five-tonne monstrosity built and sold in Europe speedy straights and jaw-dropping scenery as it tracks the southern bank of the winding Douro River.douglas Firby/The Globe and Mail Driving enthusiasts also tend to be adrenaline-junkies the “world’s best road” may prove to be a disappointment which saw a jump in sport-car rentals after it announced this road in 2015 curious that not one of Canada’s great driving roads made the shortlist – especially when the tedious Overseas Highway from Long Point Key to Florida Keys snuck in at number 25 Hadley says that road’s unique scenery earned it a place on the list It appears they will remain our secret treasures It might come as a shock to Canadians that not one of our great driving roads made it into the Top 25 of this list Here are the Avis’ experts picks for the world’s best driving roads 10 seconds on a straight compared with one second spent on a bend California: Highway 1 from Castroville to Big Sur UK: A535 from Holmes Chapel to Alderley Edge Switzerland: Flüela Pass from Davos to Susch Germany: Titisee to Bad Krozingen via L126 Australia: Great Ocean Road from The Twelve Apostles to Apollo Bay Spain: San José (Almería) to Cabo de Gata via the ALP-822 Germany: S165 from Hohnstein to Bad Schandau Spain: Escalona to Rios Bellosvia the HU-631 Portugal: N267 São Marcos da Serra to Monchique Japan: Nihon Romantic Highway from Chugushi to the 120 road split France: D81 from Piana to Porto in Corsica Italy: Portofino (GE) to Portofino Vetta (GE) Argentina: Ruta 40 from Cuesta de Miranda to the La Rioja/San Juan province borderline Florida: Overseas Highway from Long Point Key Report an editorial error Report a technical issue Editorial code of conduct Welcome to The Globe and Mail’s comment community. This is a space where subscribers can engage with each other and Globe staff. Non-subscribers can read and sort comments but will not be able to engage with them in any way. Click here to subscribe If you would like to write a letter to the editor, please forward it to letters@globeandmail.com. Readers can also interact with The Globe on Facebook and Twitter Welcome to The Globe and Mail’s comment community This is a space where subscribers can engage with each other and Globe staff We aim to create a safe and valuable space for discussion and debate If you do not see your comment posted immediately it is being reviewed by the moderation team and may appear shortly We aim to have all comments reviewed in a timely manner Comments that violate our community guidelines will not be posted UPDATED: Read our community guidelines here We have closed comments on this story for legal reasons or for abuse. For more information on our commenting policies and how our community-based moderation works, please read our Community Guidelines and our Terms and Conditions The Douro Wine City event, from the 8th to 11th of June in Peso da Régua will see 100 wine producers participating and aims to promote wines produced in the region it represents The project is part of the Douro European Wine City 2023 program and takes place on the same weekend that Peso da Régua The 3rd edition of Douro Wine City is organised by peso da Régua’s council with support from Essência do Vinho and has about a hundred producers of wine from Porto and the Douro taking part over the four days of the event the public can watch various concerts take part in show cookings by chefs like Hernâni Ermida or watch “Conversations about Wine” with Manuel Moreira a wine taster and wine critic for Wine Magazine These “Conversations” will go over topics such as “The freshness of Altitude Douro,” “At the table with Douro wine,” “Port Wine tradition and palate mastery,” “Old Vineyards diving in a universe of emotion,” “How does the National Touriga of the Douro taste?” “The right food for Port Wine,” “Tasting wines without a secret” and “Variety or blend “Ferreirinha” and “Barão de Forrester,” interpreted by actors from the Theatre Group of Peso da Régua Senior University will feature at the opening ceremony on June 8th accompanied by Tovatas do Rancho Folclórico e Recreativo de Godim and the Rancho Folclórico de Loureiro which will together perform three themes related to the Douro with acts planned from Chulada da Ponte Velha Paulo Gomes Duo and Funk Flamenco Quarteto finishing with a concert by the Armed Forces Mixed Band on the exterior stage of the Régua auditorium a prize-giving ceremony will happen for the 3rd Douro Wine Competition Douro Wine City is part of the European Wine City program which in 2023 placed the spotlight on the whole Douro region and the 19 municipalities that make it up The European Wine City programme includes more than 600 activities over the year Gees when will they finish this bloody film I bet there are lots of furious commuters out there lol www.endurogp.com June 16-19 Red Bull Erzbergrodeo - Austria www.iridehardenduro.com www.fim-isde.com September 29-October 2 Santiago do Cacém, Portugal  www.fim-moto.com www.gnccracing.com www.superenduro.org www.italianoenduro.com www.nationalenduro.com February 12 – 13 South of the Border MX www.ussprintenduro.com www.endurocross.com www.americanmotorcyclist.com www.fastedddyracing.com www.acu.org.uk www.enduro-european.org www.fim-europe.com www.aorc.org.au www.finkedesertrace.com.au www.rfme.com www.rfme.com www.enduro-france.fr www.endurosm.se March 19-20 85 Päijänteen Ympäriajo (infamous Lake Päijänne 2 Day race) July 23-24 Sipoo (European Enduro Championship round) www.grassrootsenduro.com.au www.hardenduro-germany.de www.enduro-dm.de www.worldrallyraidchampionship.com Alestrem Extreme Enduro, Ales, France January 22-23 www.24mx-alestrem.com Bassella Race 1, Bassella, Spain, February 11-13 www.bassella.com Enduropale de Touquet Pas-de-Calais, France, February 25-27 www.enduropaledutouquet.fr Extreme XL Lagares, Porto, Portugal, May 6-8 www.extremelagares.com The Tough 100, Berwyn Leisure Park near Llanarmon, North Wales, June 25-26 www.worevents.com Edgeberg Extreme, Kilburn, Yorkshire June 25 www.edgeoffroad.events Sea-to-Sky Extreme Enduro, Kemur, Turkey, October 19-22 www.seatosky.com.tr Gotland Grand National, Gotland, Sweden, October 28-29 www.gotlandgrandnational.se Africa Eco Race, Morocco to Senegal, October 15-30 www.theracetodakar.com Create a personal Enduro21 account to access our new forum receive exclusive competitions and money saving offers Enduro21 is all about motorcycle enduro and off-road riding. Read more Donations to Enduro21 can make a huge difference to what we do Learn more We're on the lookout for writers, photographers, videographers and enduro enthusiasts, from all around the world. Read more This website uses cookies that are necessary to its functioning and required to achieve the purposes illustrated in the privacy policy By accepting this OR scrolling this page OR continuing to browse the Douro Historic Train will make 51 trips.  Passengers on the train are treated to an authentic journey through time with a view of the iconic Douro landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a CP train made up of a 1925 steam locomotive and five historic carriages built between 1908 and 1934 which runs through the 36 kilometres between the Régua and Tua stations (round trip and given the growing interest and demand for this different and historic experience CP – Comboios de Portugal decided to increase the number of trips made 51 circulations are planned to be carried out The first trip took place on June 15th and the last will be on October 27th in partnership with the municipalities of Alijó which aims to value this territory and promote local products and enrich the rail tourism service with an offer of a glass of Port wine – “Porto Ferreira” there will be regional entertainment on board where participants have the opportunity to watch the water supply to the steam locomotive and can also admire the famous tile panels that decorate the walls of the station as well as such as visiting a “Wine House” and purchasing typical products from the region while the steam locomotive performs its inversion maneuvers arriving at Tua at 4:40 pm (with a stop at Pinhão) it leaves Tua at 5:08 pm to arrive at Régua station at 6:26 pm (with a stop at Pinhão) This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page Australian Wil Ruprecht has raced to overall victory on day one of the WPTGlobal FIM EnduroGP World Championship’s GP of Portugal The TM rider put together a sensational day’s racing coming into his own during the super challenging and all-important third and final lap of the day in Peso da Regua he claimed his first overall EnduroGP class victory of the season Ruprecht was made to work extremely hard for the day win joined on the podium by Josep Garcia who finished in a close second Andrea Verona completed the EnduroGP podium on the opening day of racing at round two Recharged following last weekend’s season-opening ACERBIS GP of Spain the WPTGlobal FIM EnduroGP World Championship served up another tough day in the saddle this time on day one of the GP of Portugal in Peso da Regua With darkness falling on Friday night’s AKRAPOVIC Super Test Josep Garcia managed to top the timesheets despite being the final rider to take to the start With Saturday beginning with a wet and slippery start it was Kiwi Hamish MacDonald who mastered the technically demanding JUST1 Enduro Test to top the timesheets In doing so he established himself at the top of an early battle for the lead ahead of Ruprecht and Josep Garcia with the Spaniard a further eight seconds back in third The tables turned slightly on the following ACERBIS Cross Test as Ruprecht set the quickest time to edge himself in front of MacDonald The New Zealander was refusing to be outdone and in posting the fastest time in the AKRAPOVIC Super Test MacDonald was back in the lead as they began lap two of three After the POLISPORT Extreme Test on lap two MacDonald looked to be on course to take a debut EnduroGP category win as the 2020 Junior champion headed the field by a very impressive 11 seconds over Ruprecht and Garcia a major crash on the final JUST1 Enduro Test would prove the undoing of MacDonald the Sherco rider tumbled down the running order and will have to wait another day to claim that elusive EnduroGP win as the Australian began the final three tests of the day with a near 10-second lead and despite a blisteringly fast AKRAPOVIC Super Test Unable to bridge the gap to the leaders he placed 46 seconds adrift of Ruprecht while also heading fourth-placed Thomas Oldrati by 71 seconds Brad Freeman toughed out day one for fifth finishing eight-tenths of a second behind Oldrati Finishing the day on the overall podium in third also led Andrea Verona to his third consecutive day win in Enduro1 Pleased with his efforts and finishing a strong fourth overall in EnduroGP Thomas Oldrati finished as runner-up in Enduro1 to Verona once again making good use of his vast experience Matteo Cavallo completed the podium in what was a positive day for the Italian manufacturer Australian Champion Daniel Milner finished 6th in E2 and 14th overall “This victory tastes good – it was hard fought for,” Ruprecht said “It was a shame to see Hamish crash out of the fight because we were having an incredible battle and I think I have a few places I can improve on but I lost some time in the beginning,” Garcia explained “The Enduro Test was not my best on the first two laps I got into the swing of it on the final lap and closed the gap to Will Brad Freeman continues to prove that he’s the rider to beat in Enduro3 Davide Guarneri has established himself as the next best rider to the Brit securing his third runner-up result on the trot Mikael Persson was a new name to take to the podium Fantic’s Jane Daniels looked to have given hope to her classmates in the Magnorange FIM Women’s Enduro World Championship she quickly restored normal order by kicking off Saturday with the quickest time in the JUST1 Enduro Test There was no stopping her thereafter as she raced on to win by almost two minutes while home favourite Rita Vieira took third Results: Round 1 – GP of Portugal – EnduroGP – DAY 11 Wil Ruprecht (TM) 1:08:14.76;2 Josep Garcia (KTM) 1:08:18.413 Andrea Verona (GASGAS) 1:09:01.084 Thomas Oldrati (Honda) 1:10:13.005 Brad Freeman (Beta) 1:10:13.816 Nathan Watson (Honda) 1:10:16.657 Hamish MacDonald (Sherco) 1:10:57 558 Matteo Cavallo (TM) 1:10:58.099 Alex Salvini (Husqvarna) 1:10:59.3410 Davide Guarneri (Fantic) 1:11:05.37 Serra da Estrela André Ferreira on Unsplash Editorial Team 22 November 2024 and while Portugal is typically renowned for its sunny beaches and warm climate the crisp chill of winter has begun to settle in offering stunning sights to explore during the winter months — and you might even catch a glimpse of snow While a white Christmas may not be a certainty we’ve gathered a list of magical winter destinations across Portugal to help you make the most of the season Keep reading to discover four enchanting spots including the best places to experience snow in Portugal Winter in Portugal offers a mild yet refreshing climate especially compared to many other European destinations temperatures typically range from 8°C to 15°C especially in higher altitudes like the Serra da Estrela with temperatures often dropping below freezing and snow possible with daytime temperatures averaging around 12°C to 18°C the winter months provide a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere ideal for exploring the country’s natural beauty and historical sites without the summer crowds The most notable places where you can find snow in Portugal include: While snow in coastal areas like Lisbon or Porto is extremely rare, it can occasionally fall in the higher altitudes of these regions during particularly cold winters. Find out more in our guide on where to see snow in Portugal.  Portugal offers a wealth of winter destinations beyond the typical tourist hotspots. If you're looking for a more unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, consider these hidden gems, and catch a glimpse of some snow if you're lucky: The snow covered Serra da Estrela Wikimedia commonsAt the top of our list of winter destinations in Portugal is the Serra da Estrela. If you're looking to experience snow in Portugal, this is the place to be. As the country’s most famous mountain range, Serra da Estrela boasts the highest peak in Portugal, with snow almost guaranteed throughout the winter. It’s a haven for winter sports enthusiasts, offering plenty of opportunities to try out seasonal activities like skiing and snowboarding. Among the municipalities that make up Serra da Estrela, we highly recommend visiting Manteigas, Covilhã, or Seia. These charming towns serve as perfect bases for a winter getaway, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the cold, crisp beauty of the season. The Caldo River, Gerês Wikimedia commonsAnother top winter destination in Portugal is the Peneda-Gerês National Park. The beauty of Gerês is unparalleled throughout the year, but in winter, the park reveals a serene peace and solitude that make it truly special. Quinta da Aveleda Wikimedia commonsNestled in the district of Porto, Penafiel is renowned for its prehistoric sites, such as the Dolmens of Portela and the Menir de Luzim, but this charming city has so much more to offer, especially during the winter months. One of the highlights of Penafiel is Quinta da Aveleda, a beautiful estate that boasts picturesque parks and gardens, making it a must-visit destination. Wine lovers will delight in the opportunity to sample the region’s excellent local wines, with red wine being the star of the show. Pair it with traditional roasted chestnuts, a popular street snack in winter, for a truly authentic experience. While snow is a rare occurrence in Penafiel, the winter season does bring a crisp chill to the air, creating a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings. Who knows — you may even catch a glimpse of a dusting of snow, adding an extra touch of enchantment to your visit. Bridges over the Douro River PixabayPeso da Régua, better known as Régua, is located in the heart of the Alto Douro Valley and is the epicentre of Port wine production. The stunning landscape of the Douro region, with its hills blanketed in vineyards, contrasts beautifully with the deep blue of the Douro River year-round. However, in winter, this landscape takes on a whole new level of charm, making it a fantastic destination for a winter holiday in Portugal. Explore the quaint villages in the region and take in the breathtaking views offered by the winding roads. And don’t worry about the cold — a glass of rich, local Port wine will quickly warm you up. While snow is rare in the Douro Valley, the winter months can bring a light dusting, especially in the higher altitudes, adding a magical touch to the already picturesque surroundings. Carnation Revolution: Portugal's Freedom Day On 25th April Portugal underwent a fundamental transformation known as the Carnation Revolution This pivotal event marked the end of the Estado Novo dictatorship and the start of Portugal's path to democracy The day is celebrated annually as Freedom Day to honour this peaceful transition and the newfound era of freedom and democracy.