Portugal
Portugal’s Douro River Valley was built on wine. See the Vines and evidence of its widespread viticulture everywhere. Hillside vineyards are overseen by grand manor houses. Barcos rabelos, traditional Portuguese wooden cargo boats that was used for centuries to transport people and goods along the Douro River, laden with casks, bob on the Douro’s current.
The city of Porto prospered by exporting countless crates of wine tinged with brandy, the now famous vintage known as port. Today, some 80 riverside wine lodges still age and fortify ports from tawny to white, the best of Portugal in a glass.
Lamego
Lamego, home of Portugal’s sparkling wine, Raposeira, and one of the first places to be reclaimed from the Moors in the 12th century. Situated atop the hill overlooking this lovely town is the ancient Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies church, its stairways adorned with attractive azulejos, the country’s characteristic painted ceramic tiles.
Lisbon
Lisbon’s highlights, many of which have attained the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Pinhão
The pretty village of Pinhao which is situated on a river bend surrounded by terraced hillsides producing some of the world’s best Port.
Porto
The colourful city of Porto blends the best of old and new, which you can discover on a escorted tour of the historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest monuments; and the São Bento Railway Station, known for its blue and white tile panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history.
Régua
Visit the Baroque-style Palacio de Mateus and its gardens, located in the beautiful Trás-os-Montes region near the city of Vila Real. Inside the house you’ll see exhibits of religious images and beautiful furnishings, paintings and ceiling of intricately carved wood. The gardens here are considered some of the most beautiful in Portugal.
Salamanca
UNESCO World Heritage Site, Salamanca is dominated by its two cathedrals and its university. Founded in 1218, the university is the oldest in Spain and was one of the civilised world’s most important seats of study for over 400 years. Built of golden sandstone, Salamanca is known as a “living museum,” an opportunity to step back in time to the Middle Ages. Tour the twin-towered Cathedral, the intriguingly decorated House of Shells, as well as Plaza Mayor, considered the most magnificent main square in Spain.