Douro Valley: Discover Portugal's Untouched Wine Region
Portugal’s Douro Valley is one of the world’s oldest wine regions. Arrive by boat or train, or drive along precipitous roads to glimpse its terraced vineyards, cleverly carved into the twisting canyons that arc down to the Douro River.
Why go in 2017
The Douro Valley’s rural quintas and wineries are still relatively untouched by mass tourism. And now’s the time to go - a 5.4km tunnel that opened last May has made access much easier, while TAP Portugal is set to increase the number of flights from Gatwick to Porto (the closest airport) this winter.
Insider tip
The Douro Valley is home to one of the world’s greatest train journeys - a 160km ride along river-hugging track from Porto to Pocinho through the Douro gorge. Before Ferradosa, nab a window seat on the right-hand side of the train for the best river and winery views, then once the train crosses the river, switch to the other side.
When to go
Harvest season - typically in September, although exact timings vary from grape to grape - is a great time to visit the Douro Valley.
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