River Douro

Douro Vineyard Walk

5 - 11 September 2010

This is probably our most spectacular walk. The walking is way off the beaten track in the Douro valley and you’ll experience genuine rural Portugal seeing truly spectacular countryside.

We are based in the peacefully located Quinta do Passadouro, a small top quality Port Estate who also make superb table wines. Indeed this tour is as much about the new wave of table wines being made by energetic young winemakers as it is about Port and its traditions.

From this stunning setting we visit famous estates such as Noval and Warre’s Cavadinha. We are very interested in the rising stars of the Douro. Our walks take us to Quinta do Portal, Fojo, Niepoort and Quinta do Vale D. Maria who all make superb wines and Port.

We take the train higher up the valley to walk in the Douro Superior. We also have a day above the main Port vineyards up around Favios where an excellent Moscatel wine is made. We take in some of the interesting towns of the Douro such as Lamego. The last day is spent in Oporto, where you can explore the Port lodges or enjoy this fascinating city.

Superb food and wine is included every evening as well as a picnic lunch and several of the young superstar winemakers join us for dinners. This autumn the harvest should be in full swing.

This vineyard walk for 2010 in the Douro is still one of Europe's unspoilt paradises. While exploring the vineyards, quintas, villages and towns of the dramatic Douro valley; mostly on foot, but also by train, you'll taste many of Portugal's top wines as well as Port. So, you will not just be drinking Port all week!

Vineyard Walking Rating: Medium with some steep sections.