Portugal Inviting and timeless

There are so many ways to embrace the enchanting towns tucked along the Douro River. Feel the centuries unfold as Porto’s medieval alleys snake through UNESCO-designated neighborhoods enclosed by 14th-century walls. Head off the beaten path and explore Castelo Rodrigo whose brooding 13th-century remains continue to stand watch over the village. Witness the astonishing prehistoric carvings etched into Côa Valley’s Archaeological Park walls. Marvel at Lisbon’s Jeronimos Monastery, a UNESCO-recognized site of Moorish and Gothic designs with imposing spires, carvings, tombs, and ornate arches.

Portugal may share a border with Spain but their cuisines are each distinctly their own. While it’s true that many of their menus have a lot in common—fresh, seasonal ingredients and similar dishes like Portugal’s arroz de pato and Spain’s paella, their use of spices sets them apart. Portuguese cooks favor hot chili peppers called piri piri and, with 1,115 miles of Atlantic coastline, seafood is the star on most menus. Bacalhau, or cod, is a particular favorite, and the Portuguese have invented hundreds of different ways to prepare it, from baking it in cream sauce to frying it into delicious bolinhas (aka “marbles”).

The Douro Valley is Portugal’s most beloved wine trail. A mecca for wine aficionados, you’ll be treated to tastings of red and sparkling wines and, of course, port. We visit traditional quintas that offer an authentic taste of this world-renowned elixir. Drink in its history in the quaint village of Barca D’Aliva with a tour and tasting at a boutique winery that’s the oldest quinta in the Douro River Valley, or set out on a vineyard hike through the hills in pretty Pinhão to a family-owned quinta where Port samples await.

Follow the Douro River through Portugal to cruise past quaint villages and acres of shore-hugging vineyards gently kissed by the sun. The Douro River Valley is UNESCO-designated for its “outstanding beauty,” which comes as no surprise if you spend any time sailing through the steeply terraced mountains rising from the river banks. Grape vines, silver-green olive leaves, and almond orchards are perfectly arrayed to catch the sunlight, promising a flavor and bounty unique to this corner of the world.