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Northern Portugal's Douro Valley is one of Europe's best kept secrets. Where once vessels laden with barrels of Port drifted downstream to Porto, river cruise ships now offer passengers a unique taste of this unspoilt area of the country.
The full length of the River Douro has only been made navigable to the larger passenger vessels in the last 20 years following the construction of a series of five impressive dams and locks.
As the world's first demarcated wine region with more than 13% of the region under vine, terraces covered with vineyards dominate the route and 'quintas' (wine estates) dot the landscape, providing the venue for an enjoyable interlude on each of our cruises.
For scenic splendour and a truly relaxing experience, the Douro will not disappoint.
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| PLACES OF INTEREST |
Porto
Porto is Portugal's second largest city and one of the most beautiful cities of the Iberian Peninsula. The town's charm stems from its dramatic position above the river, with little gabled houses closely terraced down the hill. Porto owes its wealth and fame to Port wine, first discovered and exported by the British in the early 17th century.
Lamego
Situated south of the Douro, Lamego is a major market centre, and is charmingly set amid vineyards and lush, fertile countryside. The town boasts several fine Baroque buildings including the 18th century pilgrimage church Nossa Senhora dos Remedios, a Gothic cathedral, and an 11th century castle where, in 1143 Don Alfonso Henriques was elected first King of Portugal.
Villa Real
Birthplace of the navigator Diego Cao who discovered the mouth of the Congo, Villa Real is an attractive old Episcopal town surrounded by fruit orchards and vineyards. Nearby is the little village of Mateus with a beautiful Baroque.
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Lisbon
The capital of Portugal since its conquest from the Moors in 1147, Lisbon is a city with over 20 centuries of history. Radiant skies brighten this monumental city, with its typical tile covered building facades and narrow Medieval streets. Lisbon is the place for exquisite shopping, interesting museums, historical buildings and is, of course, famous for its explorers, Vasco Da Gama who sailed around the Cape of Good Hope and Magellan who sailed around the world. |
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