The region has over 250 thousand hectares that run from the Baixo Corgo area (near Vila Nova de Gaia) to Douro Superior (near the Spanish boarder). This is where Port Wine is made, appreciated and recognized all over the world; the sellers lay along the south Douro river bank, in Vila Nova de Gaia, and may be visited.
Along the Douro River, which crosses the north of Portugal, you can see the typical hills filled with vineyards that benefit the richness of the soils and the excellent climate conditions.
Through the tranquil waters, sail the famous “Barcos Rebelo”, shipments that once transported wine barrels down the river, but today, used exclusively for trips, that take you through unforgettable landscapes.
Although it is a large region and some areas or not easily accessible, there are a couple of spots that can’t be left unknown.
Lamego, for example, “cultural capital of Douro” with an extremely reach patrimony to be seen at the Sé, prior to the foundation of Portugal, the Senhora dos Remédios’s Sanctuary, with its monumental stairway, as well as the Medieval Castle and Paço Ducal.
To get an idea of the typical landscape, we suggest a climb to the São Leonardo view point at Galafura, located between Régua and Vila Real, on the road to Vila Seca de Poiares. From this point, you can appreciate the true beauty of the vineyards, the river and the terraces, according to how the Portuguese writer Miguel Torga described in his “geological poem”.
A good starting point to discover the Côa Valley and the Rupestre Paintings found along the surroundings (primitive engraving of animals on stones), is the Castelo Melhor Village, part of the Vila Nova de Foz Côa County. When in the village note the little houses built of schist and the castle ruins.
Douro is the perfect place for Enotourism, meaning visitations to wineries, being entitled to a diverse program of activities. Like at the Quinta da Gaivosa and Quinta da Pacheca, for example, where besides discovering the properties and production methods you may taste some of the best crops in there own environment.
To complete the experience and extend sensations in an unforgettable manner, ARTEH® has some of the best charming hotels of the region for an accommodation that are guaranteed to prolong the emotions.
Casas do Côro
Travel through time and take refuge in a historical Portuguese village.
Casas do Côro is located in the heart of the medieval Marialva, a historical Portuguese village, in a region where the signs of man reach as far back as the Palaeolithic era.
The refurbishment of these centuries’ old houses and the harmonious combination of the structures’ granite with the refined decor are an astonishing surprise. The atmosphere is rustic, yet doesn’t compromise the comfort demanded by the times and afforded by the surrounding space.
Pestana Porto
Sail on the Douro River from the window of your room.
In Praça da Ribeira, in the historical centre of the city of Porto, one finds the Pestana Porto hotel, perfectly integrated into the scenery of the riverside area which offers an amazing view onto the Rio Douro and a unique atmosphere.
The hotel’s rooms are customised and present special characteristics according to the building in which they are found as well as a contemporary decor designed for comfort and with attention to details.
About ARTEH® – Hotels and Resorts
Best Independent Hotel Chain – Publituris Awards 2004 and 2005
ARTEH® - Hotels and Resorts is a soft brand independent Hotel Chain with a Luxury Collection of Charming & Exclusive Boutique Hotels and Resorts, with Golf and Spa.
ARTEH® offers a different lifestyle, in an exquisite and charming environment, be it to get away from daily stress, for a relaxing weekend, prolonged vacations or even a business event.
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