Trip code: W08PO 4.5 (6 reviews)
Self-guided walking
8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
Flights
available
19.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
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Northern Portugal is a remarkable region, full of diverse and exciting landscapes. This walking holiday leads you through three very different areas beginning in the UNESCO World Heritage wine region of the Douro Valley, to the rugged mountains of the Peneda- Geres National Park, coming to an end on the pristine coastline of the Minho River.
The Douro Valley is a spectacle for the senses, best explored on foot to fully appreciate this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next, you enter the Peneda- Geres National Park, a natural jewel of outstanding beauty, home to wild ponies, golden eagles, and the local Castro Laboreiro dog. Lastly, you'll visit the Minho region, coated with vineyards and forest, brimming with history and culture, and bordered in the west by long sandy beaches.
At the mouth of the Douro River lies the energetic city of Porto, Portugal's second city. We highly recommend adding extra nights here to enjoy the elegant architecture, history, and culture, and of course, to sample the rich fortified wine named after the city.
The routes follow country roads, tracks, cycle-ways and paths of variable standard. The roads are sometimes tarmacked, gravel or cobbled.
Arrive at your first hotel in Alijo.
You stay at Pousada do Barão de Forrester.
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Located in the centre of Alijó village, this historic building houses 21 rooms all of which represent the beautiful landscapes of the Douro Valley. Their onsite restaurant O Barão (The Baron) serves fresh, quality food alongside local wines, highlighting the Douro as the birthplace of Port Wine.
Today’s walk takes you through constantly shifting landscapes of vineyards, woodland, and fields to the ancient village São Mamede da Ribatua. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the calm Tua reservoir below, surrounded by rugged mountains.
Walk through pleasant countryside at the outer edge of the Douro wine region to reach a ridge that runs along the hilltops to Casal de Loivos and down to Pinhão. You will have magnificent views of the Pinhão Valley and surrounding slopes followed by splendid vistas of the Douro River and Valley as you make your way down through the vineyards to Pinhão.
You stay at Hotel LBV.
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Surrounded by nature, this serene hotel is in Pinhão on the banks of the Douro River. Enjoy the stunning views of Pinhão landscapes, classified by UNESCO as Cultural Heritage of Humanity. With just 11 rooms, you’ll delight in the peaceful atmosphere from your balcony with views over the river or hills. There’s a swimming pool and jacuzzi for all guests to use, as well as the ‘Vintage Bar’ where you can participate in a wine tasting.
Check out of your hotel and meet your driver for a private transfer to the Peneda-Gerês National Park. Your base for the next 2 days is the historical village of Castro Laboreiro, which originated as an Iron Age settlement and has been occupied ever since, creating a tight-knit community. Enjoy a short yet delightful walk to the ruins of the castle that overlooks the village and the surrounding countryside. The views are well worth the short climb! On your way back to the village, you can visit the small museum to learn about the local culture and traditions of this remote community.
You stay at Hotel Castrum Villae.
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The village of Castro Laboreiro has one of the richest prehistoric heritages in the country, dating back over five thousand years. With incredible views over the Peneda Mountains, this hotel within the National Park has a unique beauty. The dining room serves a regional breakfast and a restaurant service option. There’s also a pub onsite with games and books for guests to enjoy.
Walk through the village and out into the rugged hills and gorgeous countryside, full of quirky rock formations. Once in the valley, a pleasant area of woodland leads to an ancient bridge where you may like to bathe your feet in the untainted waters. Enjoy the shade of the trees and the sound of the stream as you climb steadily to the plateau, full of smooth granite boulders and sweeping views across the valley to other hills, valleys, and ridges.
Walk to the sanctuary of Peneda, crossing wild, rocky highlands with glorious views over the surrounding mountains on the way to Lamas do Mouro Park Gate, a great place to learn more about the National Park. From here, the enchantment of the forest takes over as you make your way towards the sanctuary at Peneda, at times following ancient stone paths built for local pilgrims. After reaching Peneda Sanctuary, you’ll be transferred to the charming small town of Vila Nova de Cerveira. Once refreshed, enjoy a stroll around the historical centre and look out for artworks – this town hosts a biennial arts festival.
You stay at Quinta de São Roque.
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Within origins in the 19th century, this charming house offers a tranquil and restful stay for all guests. Just a 10-minute walk from the River Minho, there is an outdoor swimming pool at the accommodation and bikes available to hire. The cosy living room has comfortable armchairs and a fireplace where you can enjoy a book from the library.
Follow the trail along the River Minho, the natural border with Spain, all the way to its mouth at the riverside town of Caminha. Once there, you can visit the beautifully carved Gothic parish church or stop for refreshments in the atmospheric main square with its 16th century fountain before heading to the ocean. After Caminha, you’ll walk through an ancient pine forest before following an easy coastal path to the fishing village and seaside resort town of Vila Praia de Âncora via Moledo beach.
You stay at Hotel Meira.
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Built in 1935, this family-run hotel benefits from a unique location between sea, countryside, and mountains – only 2 minutes from the beach. Inspired by the sea, Hotel Meira offers a relaxing spa experience using natural ingredients. There’s also a sauna and Turkish bath available to all guests.
Set off for the fascinating city of Viana do Castelo, crossing a wide sandy expanse of beach as you leave Vila Praia de Âncora. You’ll briefly head inland through patches of forest and fields before following the coast and its stone windmills and fortresses south to Viana do Castelo. Stroll through the beautiful historical centre of Viana do Castelo to reach your hotel. When you’ve had chance to freshen up, you can enjoy exploring the ancient streets and squares of this pretty town.
You stay at Casa Melo Alvim.
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As the oldest urban manor house in the town, this welcoming hotel was originally built in 1509 and has been lovingly restored. No two rooms are the same, each have been individually decorated in the traditional Portuguese styles of the 17th & 18th centuries. A buffet breakfast is served at the hotel restaurant, there’s also a guest bar with a fantastic terrace and gardens.
Leave Viana do Castelo for your onward arrangements. We'd recommend adding extra nights in Porto to explore this fabulous city - enquire for prices.
These tour prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £397.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into Porto airport, with onward rail included. We can also provide transfers from the station to your hotel, please contact us for details and prices.
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment.
Senior Product Development Manager, Emily, shares with us her experiences of the diverse landscapes featured on this holiday.
Self-guided walking
8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
Flights
available
19.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
