From gorgeous beaches and eclectic architecture, to quaint fishing villages and renowned vineyards, Portugal is culture-rich and brims with old-world charm. On this journey, we focus on the countryside, the farms, and the wineries of Alentejo and Douro. Porto and Lisbon are, of course, also included. Alongside Roman stones and medieval convents, Lisbon boasts exquisite tile work on every corner. Alentejo personifies a history immersed in periods of unrest and bonanzas and is a land where culture and tradition go hand in hand. Envisage rolling plains filled with cork trees and honest people, proud of Alentejo. Further north, we unveil the secrets of the Douro Valley. With majestic riverbanks sculpted by centuries of vineyard cultivation, the valley is the world's oldest wine-producing region and is home to a famous port wine. Downriver, Porto is a tightly-clustered assortment of colorful tumbledown houses, soaring bell towers, and stately Baroque churches. Accompany us on this riveting journey back through time and feast your senses!
Welcome to Portugal and its capital Lisbon. On arrival, our private driver will whisk you away to the lovely property we have selected in the heart of the city. After a light lunch, we join our local tour guide for a 4-hour walking tour of the city's historical sites. This port-city is rich with history and many of the buildings and monuments reflect its maritime past. Modern architecture meets ancient monuments, amid an atmosphere filled with music and a teeming nightlife. In the evening, we hold a welcome dinner in your honor, the first of many flavorful and authentic meals on this journey. The delectable meal will be paired with wines from the region.
Mid-morning, we embark on a leisurely drive to the Alentejo region, located southeast of Lisbon. En-route, we have arranged a tasting at one of our favorite wineries. Our journey continues to the town of Evora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we are greeted by a local guide. After experiencing an amazing Portuguese eatery, we are taken on a private tour of the town and its notable landmarks. We end today in Monforte, our home for the next two nights. In the evening, we journey through Alentejo's best delicacies at the property's restaurant, where we will be seated in an intimate yet impressive location for a private dinner.
Today, a foodie guides us around Estremoz, where we begin with coffee and traditional pastries. We then visit a traditional herdade or farm that lies on the outskirts of Estremoz, which was originally built for kings. Here, we will be treated to an extensive wine tasting. Lunch will be enjoyed on an organic farm, in a restored mill. Envisage local cheeses, charcuterie, and superb wine. We will also sample the renowned olive oil made here, followed by a tour of the adega/winery where we will sample the wine straight from the barrels. As our eventful day draws to an end, we return to our impeccable property for some relaxation and dinner on your own account.
Mid-morning, we embark on a lengthy but fascinating journey to Douro. En-route we stop at one of Alentejo’s most beautiful villages, Marvao. Located deep in Portugal’s hinterland within a whisker of the Spanish border, Marvao is described as an eagle’s nest hidden in the hills. Its 13th-century walls are still fairly intact and the village is accessed through a narrow medieval archway. We spend time taking it all in as we make our way to a quaint, traditional restaurant, where we enjoy lunch on our own account. We reach Douro late afternoon, in time for a sunset wine tasting at our property and a farm-to-table style dinner prepared by our local chef.
This morning, we will be picked up by a vintage car, which will be ours for the day. After winding through the valley, and admiring incredible views, we stop at our first winery. We then indulge in lunch at the renowned Cozinha (Kitchen) da Clara at Quinta de La Rosa. Next on the agenda is a visit to the second winery of the day, where we experience some local ports. We then hop on board a private boat for a tour of the spectacular Douro River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The day draws to a close with a fine dining experience, paired with the best regional wines and Vintage Port which can be sipped by the fireplace.
After a leisurely morning, we make our way to a local farm for an authentic cooking class and lunch. Later in the afternoon, we visit the Six Senses Douro, where we have arranged pampering at their award-winning spa overlooking the vine-covered countryside of the Douro Valley and the river below. We remain on the property for a few more hours so as to experience an impeccable wine tasting, before joining their Chef for an intimate food and wine experience at his table. The tasting dinner is prepared by our host, before your eyes, while we indulge in their finest wines. The evening wanes to an end with some of their best port.
This morning, we make our way to Porto. Built on a steep riverbank, Porto is a jumble of colorful medieval houses that hug the calm waters of the Douro River, where wooden boats bob. Expect to see people spilling out of cafes and bars, with wine in hand. In the afternoon, we explore the city’s sites on a private guided tour and as night approaches, we treat you to an explosion of Portuguese flavors. Prepare yourself for a Petiscos Tasting Dinner comprising of flavor-filled dishes that showcase the country's rich culinary heritage.
Extend your stay in or beyond Portugal, or journey home. Either way, we will arrange a private airport transfer. Why not allow our professional team to assist in extending your stay? How about a few days exploring one of our favorite hidden gems, Portugal's Island of Madeira? Or how about a Spanish escapade just around the corner? The opportunity for adventure is endless.
Our day-to-day itinerary may, from time to time and prior to departure, need to be altered or slightly modified to address possible unforeseen logistical and weather challenges. In such rare instances, Art In Voyage guarantees delivery of the content of the itinerary yet, in a different order.
All listed retreats (hotels, villas, and barges) are, at times, subject to changes. In such rare instances, similar or higher standards will be upheld.
In case of a cancelation at more than 60 days prior to departure, your deposit will be returned minus a $250 per person administrative fee.
In case of a cancelation within the penalty period: Find a replacement at least 30 days prior to departure and your journey will be fully refunded, minus a $250 per person administrative fee.