Flavours of Spain and Portugal

Your journey begins in Vega de Terròn in the north of Spain where you will embark. You are on the Spanish border and not far from the famous city of Salamanca, home to one of the oldest universities in Europe.

Your first stop will be in Pinhào, where the castles are spectacular, especially the Castelo Rodrigo in the medieval village, nicknamed the White Village because of its almond trees. Its medieval streets, its 16th century houses with their facades and windows in the Manuelian style remain, as a whole, an authentic architectural monument. Take advantage of your day to taste the local flavours: almonds, cheeses, breads and wines in a quinta. Also in Pinhào you can admire the spectacular railway station with its old azujelos all in shades of blue representing scenes from the daily life of the Douro valley. Take the time to visit the Museum of the History and Culture of Wine of the Alto Douro region where you can learn all about wine growing and enjoy wine tastings.

Excursion (optional): Discover Madeira and its Islands.

The Régua region is also spectacular. It is here, in Lamego, one of the most beautiful cities in northern Portugal, located at the bottom of a staircase of blue and white azulejos, that you can see the sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remedios. The city is an important pilgrimage site in Portugal. You will also be able to visit the Mateus Palace built in the first half of the 18th century. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens and the property is considered one of the greatest powers of Baroque civil architecture in Portugal.

After leaving Regua, the boat will sail to Entre-Os-Rios, the city between two rivers, before mooring in Porto. In Entre-Os-Rios, you will have the opportunity to dine in a quinta to taste the local specialties: the bôlas, the presuntos and the espumante, a Portuguese sparkling wine. When you arrive in Porto, join a guided tour in the historic district, classified as a UNESCO site, and discover the cathedral and the Sao Bento train station.

We suggest (optional) that you take a 4X4 to discover the island in a different way.

And you will end this wonderful trip in Porto, “the city of bridges”. Starting from the historic quarter, wander through its small staircases and medieval streets that will lead you to the Ribeira quarter, with its cafés, terraces and picturesque corners. Take the time to walk gently along the Douro River in the heart of the city centre before saying goodbye.

Your river cruise ends today. To extend your stay of discovery in Portugal, choose for a continuation of a few days in Lisbon or a seaside stay in the Algarve.