DOURO VALLEY
This is one of the most fascinating regions in the country. The river Douro is part of the postcard-like picture of this territory and it snakes all the way to Spain. To the east the landscape is marked by drier soils and incredible tall cliffs, where International Douro Natural Park is located, and to the west the scenery is a lot greener. However, the typical picture of the Douro Valley is a hilly landscape filled with vineyards planted in terraces that go all the way down to the riverbank and this area represents the Douro Wine Demarcated Region.
The Douro Valley was the world’s first wine region to be officially demarcated and regulated back in 1756 and declared UNESCO Heritage in 2001. In this region are produced excellent quality table wines and also the famous Port, so it’s heaven for those looking to unplug and enjoy the small pleasures in life. But the wine production doesn't end there since the eastern part of Douro, a territory known as Douro Verde, is part of another demarcated wine region where vinho verde is produced.
Apart from the wine across the Douro Valley there are beautiful estates - some converted into charming guesthouses and boutique hotels - , interesting religious buildings and heartwarming food.
The Douro Valley was the world’s first wine region to be officially demarcated and regulated back in 1756 and declared UNESCO Heritage in 2001. In this region are produced excellent quality table wines and also the famous Port, so it’s heaven for those looking to unplug and enjoy the small pleasures in life. But the wine production doesn't end there since the eastern part of Douro, a territory known as Douro Verde, is part of another demarcated wine region where vinho verde is produced.
Apart from the wine across the Douro Valley there are beautiful estates - some converted into charming guesthouses and boutique hotels - , interesting religious buildings and heartwarming food.
- Main towns: Baião, Régua, Pinhão and Foz Côa.
- Highlights: Natural Landscapes; Wine; Historical and Cultural Heritage.
- Weather: To the west side, temperatures are milder and it rains more. To the east the temperature span is wider, with hot Summers and frosty Winters.
- Getting in and out: Porto's airport is 1 hour and 15 minutes driving to Régua, which lies in the central part of the Douro Valley. There is also a good railway connection along the riverside towns, with frequent schedules between Spring and Autumn.
- Getting around: Having a car to drive around is not mandatory.
- Nearby regions: Minho, Trás-os-Montes and Beiras.
- Journal Posts: Harvest Season; International Douro Natural Park; Romantic Getaways.