Douro valley

Start your journey with a stroll through the charming old town. Beautiful squares invite you to linger, and a small mountain stream winds its way picturesquely through the town. The medieval castle towers above it all.

Hotel (example): Pousada de Bragança

With every kilometre, the view of Bragança Castle recedes, while rolling hills, almond trees and olive groves dominate the landscape. You pass through quiet villages with stone houses, encounter storks in Valdrez and feel the charm of seclusion. One last climb, then you glide along a cycle path to Macedo de Cavaleiros – the stage destination is quaint, inviting and unspoilt.

Hotel (example): BHB Boutique House

At the start, a cycle path gently winds its way out into the countryside. Soon, sweeping panoramic views of olive groves and cork oaks open up. Take a break in one of the rose-adorned villages and treat yourself to a sweet chestnut cake. The landscape changes to rocky terrain and you finally reach the impressive town of Vila Flor with its narrow streets and beautiful squares.

Hotel (example): Quinta da Pereira

From Vila Flor, you roll down through vineyards and along old dry stone walls. After a long descent, you will reach the River Sabor and follow it, accompanied by terraced vineyards, to the mouth of the Douro. Cool off at the beach before leaving the shore again and cycling to Torre de Moncorvo. You will be impressed by the panoramic road to Pocinho and the spectacular vineyards on the way to Vila Nova de Foz Côa.

Hotel (example): A Flor da Rosa

In the morning, you cycle gently uphill on a panoramic road, accompanied by endless vineyards, almond and olive trees. After two more challenging climbs, you will marvel at the fantastic views – the Douro spreads out below you, framed by the world-famous wine terraces. On a magnificent descent, you will race into the atmospheric village of Pinhão, located directly on the riverbank with a beautiful promenade, where your stage destination welcomes you.

Hotel (example): LBV House Hotel

The cycle route winds its way through sun-drenched vineyards into the inland of the country before a long descent brings you back to the banks of the Douro. Once again, you cycle high above the river along the steep slopes with their port wine. On a breathtaking ride, you roll towards the main wine-growing town. Peso da Régua has a lively centre, many good restaurants and a relaxed harbour atmosphere

Hotel (example): Vila Galé Collection Douro

Today you will spend the whole day on the ship. At 10 a.m. you will leave Peso da Régua and experience the Douro from a completely new perspective: vineyards from the river, idyllic riverside villages, cherry trees and dense forests pass by. Two imposing locks, narrow rock passages and wide river courses provide variety before Porto comes into view with its bridges, imposing buildings and picturesque old town backdrop.

Hotel (example): Vila Galé Porto Ribeira