There is a wealth of things to visit on a day trip in this region – from the impressive landscape of the beaches sand dunes to the cultural capital Porto.
The Sé Cathedral, the Ferdinand Wall, Miradouro da Serra do Pilar, Batalha Square, Aliados Avenue, Ribeira Square and the S. Francisco Church are just some of the sights to be seen in the municipal capital.
But one particular trip that cannot be missed is the opportunity to visit Porto’s famous wineries. Quinta de Seixo an original farm with a modern winery has a truly amazing landscape and is the perfect place to visit whilst tasting the best wines of the region!
Guides show visitors around the cellars and explain the production processes, including the robotic lagars that closely replicate the traditional treading of Port grapes by foot. The centre makes a wonderful day out. Once you are full of the delicious port that is on offer, kick back and soak up the beautiful landscape.
Landscape - Douro, photo by José Manuel
A trip to the Upper Minho also makes for a wonderful excursion and as you thread through the mountains of the Serra do Soajo and Serra da Peneda, you’ll discover villages inhabited by shepherds, still steeped in traditional Portuguese ways of life. This region has long been treasured for its beauty, and in the 13th century, King Dom Dinis granted special privileges to the local inhabitants, forbidding anyone to stay there any longer than "the time needed to cool their bread on the tip of their lances".
This tour also takes in the spectacular Peneda-Gerês National Park. Discover its great wealth of fauna and flora and in spring or summer, make sure you take your swimsuit with you at all times. The park is full of fresh waterfalls that form small natural pools where you can enjoy a much-needed refreshing dip.
ATOP members: Milestones
