BEM-VINDOS AO DOURO!

Welcome to the Douro!

Arrivals, and afternoon check in at the Vintage House Hotel
Check in to the stately Vintage House Hotel, sitting right alongside the Douro River. Take time to explore the hotel’s surroundings, unwind with a sauna, or indulge in a sunset aperitif before dinner.

Welcome drink and orientation tasting on the hotel terrace

As the Douro River flows beneath us, sample wines from Portugal’s most important wine regions in a guided tasting that offers a deeper understanding of the country’s rich winemaking heritage.

Dinner at a favorite local spot

Settle into a traditional Portuguese restaurant where rustic charm meets unforgettable flavor. Set against a backdrop of vineyard-covered hills, the kitchen turns out soulful regional dishes – slow-cooked meats and fresh river fish – all paired with the valley’s famed wines.

BLENDING AND SUNSET CRUISING

Visit and blending session with Luis Seabra at Quinta de Adorigo

Discover the Quinta de Adorigo, a stunning property high above the winding Douro River. After a short walk around the picturesque grounds (including the property’s own ancient mini-chapel), we will taste through the red wines, guided by winemaker Luis Seabra. Luis, considered one of Portugal’s visionary winemakers, will listen to your wine tastes and then help you create the perfect blend of their estate-grown indigenous grapes.

Lunch prepared by the Quinta’s private chef

We’ll begin with a tasting of the estate’s elegant white wines, paired with canapés and a postcard-worthy view from the terrace. Then, we’ll gather around a long table in the winery’s dining room – perfectly positioned above the barrel room, offering a glimpse of where our wines will develop – and dive into a leisurely lunch of regional specialties, thoughtfully prepared by the estate’s private chef. Luis will talk us through the wines we have selected to pair with the meal.

Rest and relaxation back at the hotel

Unwind with a dip in the pool, a walk along the river or vineyard trails, or some spa time.

Sunset Douro River cruise

Set sail on a traditional Douro boat for a serene sunset cruise along the Douro River. Sip on regional wines and enjoy light snacks as you take in the panoramic views of terraced vineyards, with commentary and history provided by our Vines wine experts.

Dinner at DOC

End the day at one of the region’s finest restaurants. Perched right on the edge of the river, DOC offers a dining experience that’s as breathtaking as it is delicious. Helmed by acclaimed chef Rui Paula, the restaurant blends contemporary flair with deep-rooted Portuguese flavors, using local ingredients to create artfully plated dishes that reflect the soul of the valley. Its floor-to-ceiling windows and terrace that floats above the water make every meal here feel like a celebration of place.

WINE & SOUL

Private visit, tasting at Wine & Soul

This aptly named project is run by the charismatic and passionate couple Sandra and Jorge. The estate has been in Jorge’s family for four generations, and his passion comes through loud and clear as he and Sandra proudly show us around. After visiting their state of the art winery, we’ll head out in jeeps to explore the terraced vineyards (including the famous Quinta de Manoela) and do a tasting in their port cellars.

Lunch in the vineyards at Wine & Soul

After the tasting, we’ll dig into a flavorful lunch set at a long table on the terrace covered by vines. As we take in the view of the Douro River far below, we’ll appreciate the authentic Douro flavors paired with some of Jorge’s and Sandra’s top wines.

Rest & relaxation back at the hotel

Spend the afternoon at leisure, whether it’s lounging by the pool, exploring the grounds, or enjoying some quiet time in the spa.

Farewell dinner at Six Senses restaurant Vale Abreu

We’ll visit another property in the region, the Six Senses Douro, for our last evening’s dinner. After a toast to new friendships with a welcome glass of Portuguese bubbly on the terrace, we’ll sit down to a farm-to-table dinner at this acclaimed restaurant. The menu celebrates the region’s rich culinary heritage with a modern twist, featuring organic produce from the estate’s garden, locally sourced meats, and fresh-baked breads from the wood-fired oven – a perfect culinary goodbye!

ADEUS!

Departures, or continue on for further exploration.