Contact Us

Request a Brochure | Newsletter

Portugal: Walking & Wine - Premium Adventure

0044 1606 720199

Make an enquiry
  • Holiday code
    W07OP
  • Holiday type
    Guided walking
  • Duration
    7 nights
  • Accommodation
    hotel-to-hotel
    and
  • Activity level
  • From $3420per person, tour only
  • Departure months
    JFMAMJJASOND
  • What's Included?
  • All breakfasts, two lunches, three dinners and three wine tastings All premium accommodation Tipping for all hotel staff, local staff and drivers Named tour leader, chosen for their expertise All transport and listed activities Group arrival and departure transfers available
  • Key Information
  • This holiday is operated by our sister company, Exodus
  • Seven nights at four- or five-star hotels Gentle walks on four full days and two half days, two free half days Group normally 4-16, plus leader. Minimum age: 18 Well-marked trails and paths Travel by private air-conditioned minibus Option to travel by train to your adventure
      from 2 reviews

Mrs Cordingley says...
Superb guides, wonderful location, excellent hotels and a fascinating area.
Read reviews »

Portugal: Mainland Portugal

Walking Porto & the Douro Valley

  • Operated by our sister company, Exodus
  • Premium accommodation throughout the trip Discover ancient wine cellars and sample regional wines Enjoy walks through terraced vineyards and tranquil countryside Explore vibrant Porto with a guided walking tour Citizen Science departures available on this trip

Portugal has been making wine for centuries, with some estimates placing the first planting of vines as far back as 2000 BCE. The Basto and Douro regions are perhaps the best known and offer rich landscapes and fascinating history to discerning visitors. Led by one of our expert guides, Lina Ferreira or Ana Carla Moura Parente da Costa, immerse yourself in atmospheric Porto and indulge in a voyage of taste and discovery through the verdant Douro Valley, where port wines are produced. Venture into the region known as Terras de Basto, home of Portugal’s young wine, vinho verde, and stay in handpicked hotels including properties in the heart of the Douro Valley, which have exceptional views. The perfect combination of leisurely walks and authentic cultural visits provide a memorable introduction to this lush, captivating country, once a dominant trading power in the world. This trip includes a few of our Citizen Science Departures. These special departures offer you the opportunity to be involved in the collection of freshwater samples during the trip. The environmental DNA information derived from this sample will contribute directly to the eBioAtlas; the world’s largest repository of flora and fauna species data, contributing to the conservation and restoration of biodiversity both locally and globally. To book onto one of these special departures, see the Dates & Prices tab. For more information on these departures and the eBioAtlas, click here. Did you know you can travel by train to this trip? Find out more here



We're here to help

If you have any questions about this holiday call our sales team on 0044 1606 720199, use our live webchat or email sales@headwater.com



We're here to help

If you've any questions about this holiday call our sales team on 0044 1606 720199 , or email sales@headwater.com

Day 1: Start at our accommodation in the Douro Valley

We begin our Portuguese adventure in the verdant Douro Valley, birthplace of the world-renowned port wines. The first trip briefing with our expert guide will take place in the evening, along with a welcome dinner. Premium accommodation: Hotel Régua Douro

Day 2: Walk along the Corgo River; visit baroque-era Casa de Mateus

This morning we take a private transfer of approximately 40 minutes to the start of today's walk in Povoação, driving along the beautiful roads on the north slope of the Douro Valley and its tributaries. The Corgo walking trail is in the heart of the Douro wine region and here we will walk along terraced vineyards with unique views of the Corgo River. In the afternoon, we transfer to Vila Real (approximately 20 minutes) to visit Casa de Mateus, a palace set in beautiful gardens that is one of the finest examples of baroque architecture in Portugal. After the visit, we transfer back to the hotel (approximately 50 minutes). Premium accommodation: Hotel Régua Douro

Day 3: Short walk around Quinta do Tedo winery followed by wine tasting; visit Douro Museum

We start the day with a 30-minute transfer to Quinta de Tedo, an 18th-century winery in the centre of the Douro region. We take a guided tour of the grounds, following a walking trail that offers beautiful views of the Douro and Tedo rivers, vineyards and olive groves and offers plenty of bird-watching opportunities. After lunch and an included wine tasting at the winery, we take a 20-minute transfer to the town of Régua, where we visit the Douro Museum to learn about the history, culture and identity of the Unesco-recognised Douro wine region. In the afternoon, we transfer back to our hotel (approximately 20 minutes). Premium accommodation: Hotel Régua Douro

Day 4: Maronesa walking trail; transfer to Mondim de Basto

After breakfast, we transfer to the Mondim de Basto region (approximately one hour). On our way, we’ll pass through Alvão Natural Park, a protected area of majestic landscapes. This region on the mountain of Alvão marks the transition from the coastal and humid regions to the dry and hot regions of Trás-os-Montes. We start our walk in Bobal, one of the four villages we’ll pass through today. We’ll find a countryside that reflects the carefully maintained balance in which human beings and nature coexist. For this balance to be preserved, the Maronesa cow is of the utmost importance. A Portuguese native breed from this region, there are still genes from the ancestral Auroque in its genetics. The fields are cultivated for subsistence farming, with seeds passed down from generation to generation. After lunch we transfer to our hotel (approximately 30 minutes) and there is free time to enjoy the hotel amenities or explore nearby, before a group dinner. Premium accommodation: Água Hotels Mondim de Basto

Day 5: Walk in the green wine region of Mondim de Basto and taste organically produced ‘vinho verde’ at Quinta das Escomoeiras

Our walk today takes us to the surroundings of Mondim de Basto in the green wine (vinho verde) region, along the banks of the Cabril River. Here, we enjoy uninterrupted views of the forested mountains, side by side with the fertile lands and vineyards of the Terras de Basto region. We finish our walk at the medieval bridge of Vilar Viando, which is still used by pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago. We will then go to Quinta das Escomoeiras to sample their wines and appreciate organic vinho verde. In the afternoon on our way back to the hotel, we visit one of the main shrines in northern Portugal to the Virgin Mary: the Senhora da Graça, also known as Chapel of Monte Farinha. The chapel is perched in front of a granite mountain range almost 3,281ft (1,000m) high. Premium accommodation: Água Hotels Mondim de Basto

Day 6: Walk via the Levada de Vilarinho; free afternoon

This morning, we transfer by minibus (approximately 20 minutes) to the village of Vilarinho to start our walk along the Levada de Vilarinho, a 13th-century waterway. These rural constructions were indispensable for the irrigation of the fields of the Terras de Basto region due to water scarcity in the past. After 1.5mi (2.4km), we leave the rebuilt waterway and meet the old levada as it enters a forest of oaks and pines, with a stream running alongside. The afternoon is free to enjoy the hotel amenities and surroundings. This evening we will enjoy dinner together. Premium accommodation: Água Hotels Mondim de Basto

Day 7: Transfer to Porto; visit the historic town and the famous Port wine cellars for wine tasting; optional boat tour.

In the morning, we return to vibrant Porto (approximately 1hr 15min). After a guided visit of the historic centre and port wine cellars (wine tasting included), the rest of the day is free for further individual sightseeing or optional activities, such as a boat ride along the Douro River. Please note that your leader will leave the group after todays wine tasting and the remainder of the trip will be self-guided, but you will be provided with plenty of tips, maps and directions to make the most of your time in Porto. Premium accommodation: Neya Hotel

Day 8: End Porto

Our trip ends in Porto in the morning. If you’d like more time in this fascinating city, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

Where you stay

During your holiday you stay at the following hotels. If you'd like to extend your time at any of these or, if you'd like to enhance your stay with an upgraded room, just let us know at the time of booking.

To find out more call our sales team on 0044 1606 720199, use our live webchat or email sales@headwater.com

Premium Hotels

Accommodation on your Portugal: Walking and Wine – Premium Adventure has been selected for its style, location and excellent service. We have chosen unique properties that give a sense of the history and culture of the region, while offering the ultimate comfort and hospitality. The properties vary between departure dates – please see below for more details. Douro Valley, three nights Hotel Régua Douro  Riverside property with an outdoor pool, restaurant and games room In the heart of Régua town with local amenities on the doorstep Classically designed, spacious rooms Basto region, three nights Água Hotels Mondim de Basto  Contemporary feel throughout the hotel Outdoor infinity pool, indoor pool and extensive spa facilities Excellent views of the surrounding mountains and River Tâmega Porto, one night Neya Hotel  Located on the banks of the Douro River A converted convent – many original features preserved during its restoration The Skybar provides views for miles over the city and river  


Meals

All breakfasts, two lunches, three dinners and three wine tastings are included. Porto and the Douro Valley are known for their excellent wines and the delicious regional cuisine which makes use of the natural resources found here. All meals have strong links with the land and sea, often prepared following old traditional recipes. Local specialities include caldo verde, a cabbage soup that originated here thanks to the fertile green fields. Portugal also has some of the best fish in the world, and in this region a lot of the fish comes from the Douro River. The Douro region is also well-known for an endless number of meat dishes, including roasted goat with rice and potatoes, wild boar stew, posta mirandes (veal steak) and cozido à portuguesa (boiled meat, sausages and cabbage). The francesinha is unmissable – a multi-layered sandwich comprising cheese, ham, steak and sausage, topped with a fried egg and coated in a spicy tomato sauce. Although meat and fish dishes are typically the focal point of Portuguese cuisine, vegetarian and vegan options have become more widely available in recent years, particularly in cosmopolitan cities such as Lisbon and Porto. Please let us know of any dietary requirements in advance so we can best accommodate your request. The Douro Valley, birthplace of port, is one of the oldest and most beautiful wine regions in the world. Considering the importance of the Alto Douro Wine Region, Unesco recognised it as a World Heritage site in 2001. Port is a fortified wine produced under particular and unique conditions. It is still produced in the traditional way, during which the fermentation process is stopped by adding spirits distilled from wine, and the blending of wines and aging still play a vital role. Port wines can be red, white or rosé and during the trip there will be plenty of opportunities to try the different varieties. Vinho verde is also an excellent wine produced in this area. Naturally light and fresh, it is fruity, easy to drink, great as an aperitif or served with light meals.

Travel

Our aim is to provide holidays that are unbeatable for choice and flexibility. We've listed our most popular travel options below, however you aren't limited to these - we can tailor-make virtually any holiday to suit.

To find out more about the travel options available call our sales team on 0044 1606 720199 or email sales@headwater.com

Transportation

Transport from and to the airport is by minibus. Other transport mentioned in the itinerary as an integral part of the guided walks is also included and is by private vehicle.

Joining Instructions

Key information Start hotels and phone number: Hotel Douro Scala, R. do Paço, 5040-154 Cidadelhe (+351 254 890 020) or Hotel Régua Douro, Largo da Estação, 5050-237 Peso da Régua (+351 254 320 700) Recommended arrival time: Before 6pm to catch the welcome briefing and dinner Airport: Porto Airport (OPO) Getting to the start hotel The start hotel is approximately 90 minutes’ drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are: Take an Exodus transfer Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport that departs at 3pm, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer. Make your own way You can’t reach the start hotel by public transport, so we recommend joining the group transfer where possible. If you can’t join the group transfer and would like to organise a private transfer, or would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative. Catching your return flight The trip ends in Porto, approximately 20 minutes’ drive from Porto Airport. There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.

Reviews

Everyone who goes on a Headwater holiday will be emailed a link to our post-holiday questionnaire where they can give us an honest assessment of all aspects of their holiday - everything from how quickly we answer the phone to how clean the hotels were - plus an overall rating and comments about their holiday.

Any feedback collected is posted to our website, so that people can make an informed decision based on past experiences before heading off on holiday. We don’t edit the reviews, the only thing we do is proofread them and alter any typos, where necessary, to ensure they are easy to read for everyone. All reviews will be published (except in certain extreme circumstances), and a member of the Headwater team will respond to any constructive criticisms/comments under the reviews, at their discretion. So, for the real tales, twists and turns of our holidays, look no further than the reviews from our previous travellers.


Mrs Cordingley, 25/09/2021

Superb guides, wonderful location, excellent hotels and a fascinating area.


Mr Kern, 21/09/2019

An easy going amble through lovely countryside, no long or challenging walks. Lina and Antonio were great guides. Lovely quitas were visited with great tastings and lunches. Accommodation was very comfortable with good facilities but too " corporate" compared with the more individual smaller accommodation usually associated with Headwater. All in all: the holiday was as advertised.



Dates and prices

You can be confident that our pricing includes all the standard requirements of your holiday and many additional extras. Always ensure that you are comparing like for like when booking your holiday.

This 7 night guided walking holiday includes:

All breakfasts, two lunches, three dinners and three wine tastings All premium accommodation Tipping for all hotel staff, local staff and drivers Named tour leader, chosen for their expertise All transport and listed activities Group arrival and departure transfers available


How to book:

To book this holidays speak to our sales team on 0044 1606 720199 or click on the appropriate 'book now' or 'check availability' button below.

To book this holiday call our sales team on 0044 1606 720199 or click on the appropriate 'Book now' or 'check availability' button below.

  • Apr 2024
  • May 2024
  • Jun 2024
  • Sep 2024
  • Oct 2024
  • Apr 2025
  • May 2025
  • Jun 2025
  • Aug 2025
  • Sep 2025
  • Oct 2025
DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
21st Apr 2024 WAS US$3540
US$3420
Save US$120
US$713 Tour only: Now US$3420 (was US$3540)
Single supp: US$713
Check availability
Check availability
DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
12th May 2024 US$3600 US$713 Tour only: US$3600
Single supp: US$713
Check availability
Check availability
DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
2nd Jun 2024 US$3825 US$788 Tour only: US$3825
Single supp: US$788
Check availability
Check availability
DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
1st Sep 2024 US$3825 US$788 Tour only: US$3825
Single supp: US$788
Check availability
Check availability
15th Sep 2024 US$3825 US$788 Tour only: US$3825
Single supp: US$788
Check availability
Check availability
22nd Sep 2024 US$3825 US$788 Tour only: US$3825
Single supp: US$788
Check availability
Check availability
29th Sep 2024 US$3825 US$788 Tour only: US$3825
Single supp: US$788
Check availability
Check availability
DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
13th Oct 2024 US$3600 US$713 Tour only: US$3600
Single supp: US$713
Check availability
Check availability
DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
6th Apr 2025 US$3900 US$735 Tour only: US$3900
Single supp: US$735
Check availability
Check availability
20th Apr 2025 US$3900 US$735 Tour only: US$3900
Single supp: US$735
Check availability
Check availability
DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
11th May 2025 US$3900 US$735 Tour only: US$3900
Single supp: US$735
Check availability
Check availability
DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
1st Jun 2025 US$4200 US$810 Tour only: US$4200
Single supp: US$810
Check availability
Check availability
15th Jun 2025 US$4200 US$810 Tour only: US$4200
Single supp: US$810
Check availability
Check availability
DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
31st Aug 2025 US$4200 US$810 Tour only: US$4200
Single supp: US$810
Check availability
Check availability
DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
14th Sep 2025 US$4200 US$810 Tour only: US$4200
Single supp: US$810
Check availability
Check availability
21st Sep 2025 US$4200 US$810 Tour only: US$4200
Single supp: US$810
Check availability
Check availability
28th Sep 2025 US$4200 US$810 Tour only: US$4200
Single supp: US$810
Check availability
Check availability
DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
12th Oct 2025 US$3900 US$735 Tour only: US$3900
Single supp: US$735
Check availability
Check availability

The prices quoted for each individual departure supercede those published in our current brochures. Air prices are subject to change and we advise early booking to obtain the best prices. Please see our Planning your holiday and What's included in the price? pages for additional information.

Key information

This holiday is operated by our sister company, Exodus

Seven nights at four- or five-star hotels Gentle walks on four full days and two half days, two free half days Group normally 4-16, plus leader. Minimum age: 18 Well-marked trails and paths Travel by private air-conditioned minibus Option to travel by train to your adventure

Transportation

Transport from and to the airport is by minibus. Other transport mentioned in the itinerary as an integral part of the guided walks is also included and is by private vehicle.

Joining instructions

Key information Start hotels and phone number: Hotel Douro Scala, R. do Paço, 5040-154 Cidadelhe (+351 254 890 020) or Hotel Régua Douro, Largo da Estação, 5050-237 Peso da Régua (+351 254 320 700) Recommended arrival time: Before 6pm to catch the welcome briefing and dinner Airport: Porto Airport (OPO) Getting to the start hotel The start hotel is approximately 90 minutes’ drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are: Take an Exodus transfer Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport that departs at 3pm, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer. Make your own way You can’t reach the start hotel by public transport, so we recommend joining the group transfer where possible. If you can’t join the group transfer and would like to organise a private transfer, or would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative. Catching your return flight The trip ends in Porto, approximately 20 minutes’ drive from Porto Airport. There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.