From Porto, a boat trip along the Douro river into the beautiful wine district was a must. The Douro valleys have a microclimate allowing for cultivation of olives, almonds, and especially grapes, which are important for making port. According to our guide, the region around Pinhão and São João da Pesqueira is considered to be the centre of port, with its quintas (or farms/estates) along the steep slopes of the river valleys. Today, many of these are owned by multinational, reputed wine companies.
The grapes had been harvested two weeks before we arrived, so the fields were empty – but still eye-catching.
We went by bus to the vineyard where we were going to eat and try their wines. With those lovely views everywhere, you could not fall asleep…
…neither on the river nor on the bus.
The rolling green hills and the blue sky – all softness and harmony.
The vines were almost always combined with olive trees – giving a soft silvery touch to the landscape.
Finally, as our trip was coming to an end, we inhaled the magnificent view from Quinta S Luiz before entering the bus again.
Of course we had delicious Portuguise food and nice wine along with it. Strolling through the wine cellar of Quinta S Luiz, I found ”my” vintage wine – but I did not buy it… maybe I should have…
Leya 
Thanks for sharing this tour! I didn’t manage to go to the Duoro valley but I did a tasting of the Port wines at a tour of a wine cellar in Porto 😀.
Thank you for coming along! Port is really tasty, I loved it.
Great landscape photos as always. I love the patterns of the vineyards.
Thank you, Gift. Patterns are beautiful.
The view was so refreshing to see, it eases the mind and quiet the soul.
Thank you.
Sounds like a lovely place to visit
It really was. Relaxing.
🙂
I’m not a fan of port (it gives me a headache) but no matter, I would go on this tour to see and photograph those beautiful terraces! I love the geometry of the landscape 🙂
I do too, Sarah, love the terraces. I don’t know how many photos I took there…
You should have bought it!!
😦
Well, perhaps not!
Ann-Christine, I am so envious. How beautiful.
It was. Relaxing.
Quite magical shots, Ann-Christine. For a moment I was right back there.
You and me both, Jo!
🤗💖
Good!
Extraordinary and evocative photos.
It is a wonderful region, Margaret
I’d love to visit.
A river cruise there is a most relaxing way to take in the scenery….
You know me and cruises. Though a river cruise I might just entertain.
It is different!
It is!
🥰
Thank you, Margaret! I am not a boat person, but a short trip in beautiful surroundings – and no wind and in good company – that’s great!
Beautiful. There are some wonderful wines from Portugal.
Thank you, Janet – yes, I agree. We loved port too.
This brings back memories of our visit there. Great images
Anita
Thank you, Anita – memories awoken!
Sounds lovely. I hope to go to Portugal. I love port.
I think you should some day! I love port too.
I’ll get there