The most beautiful farms to visit in Douro
The most beautiful farms to visit in Douro
We often think of the Douro as a remote and distant place, difficult to access and a long journey. But, in fact, if we leave from the city of Porto, it only takes us about an hour and a half to reach the beautiful Douro region. Itis a cultural landscape, classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2001, arguments that make this visit essential.
It is possible to visit the main part of Douro in a single day, but the landscapes are so sublime that were commend a longer, calmer and more relaxing stay. For example, two romantic days or four family days.
You will be able to visit some essential places, such as Peso da Régua or Pinhão, two cities that are very close and easily located, only divided by national road 222, which was declared, in 2015, as the best road in the world for driving. It is unmissable, as the road appears alongside the Douro River, following its curves and winding its way up the mountain. Something unique and exclusive!
Seductive views
But this is just the first charm we have listed. There are still many other places to visit to experience how beautiful the Douro Valley and its villages and vineyards are. To begin with, why not visit some of the 14 viewpoints in Douro and photograph the magnificent view from each of them? We highlight 3 of these places, due to their beauty and location: the Miradouro of São Leonardo da Galafura, the Miradouro of São Salvador do Mundo and the Miradouro of Casal de Loivos. These are breathtaking landscapes!
Despite everything we have previously advised, experiencing Douro is synonymous with visiting its most beautiful vineyards and farms! To do this, we have created a list of the seven most stunning farms to visit: tour their vineyards, taste their wines, perhaps have lunch there and learn more about their history.
Visit them all, even if you need to stay for a week or a month. But don't miss out on some of the most fascinating landscapes in the world.
Roêda Farm
The jewel of Douro. Roêda Farm is located in Pinhão, in the heart of the Douro Valley, and its entrance is right on the bridge in front of The Vintage House hotel, an excellent place, in fact, to spend the night, if you stay for more than one day. The farm's visitor center, located in the carefully restored stables, is the ideal space to taste Croft's Port wines. Itis also possible to take a walk in the vineyards and even participate in the harvest (at a certain time of year and by appointment subject to availability).This is one of the most traditional farms in the Douro Valley and a must-visit.
Crasto Farm
An excellent wine experience. Crasto Farm is located in Sabrosa, in the Douro Valley, and its wines are a source of international awards. A visit to this farm allows you to see the winery and vineyard areas, the laboratory and also the Centenary House, where you can enjoy a guided wine tasting. Visits are subject to prior booking and confirmation, but they are well worth it!
Carvalhas Farm
One of the most emblematic of Alto Douro. At Carvalhas Farm, visitors can enjoy the vineyards and their dizzying landscape, take walks or try the birdwatching program, getting in touch with the local fauna. It's a beautiful farm to visit with the family, take a whole day and still want to stay to see more. Prior reservation is advisable.
Panascal Farm
The origin of some of the best Port wines. Panascal Farm is one of the first properties in the region to obtain organic certification for its vineyards, where Fonseca wines are produced. In 1992, it was one of the first to open its doors to visitors, thus stimulating tourism in the Douro region. Nowadays, it is possible to visit the farm using an audio tour system in several languages. Thus, while walking through the vineyards, visitors enjoy beautiful landscapes and the mild climate that is felt in spring. The farm offers five different experiences: all different and all incredible.
Pôpa Farm
One of the best viewpoints in Douro. Pôpa Farm opened its doors to visitors in 2012 and provides absolute wine tourism experiences. It welcomes visitors in an informal and welcoming way, has spaces designed for children and is pet-friendly. With superb views of the river, it organizes wine tastings and gastronomic experiences. Itis a space that surprises, yet respects tradition.
Seixo Farm
The house of the man in the black cloak. With a completely renovated design, Seixo Farm is a contemporary place, where you can take a guided tour of the cellar, the wine store and the robotic presses, complemented by multimedia resources that explain the entire wine production cycle. At the end, there is a wine tasting in a room with a magnificent panoramic view over the Douro. Located in Valença do Douro, Tabuaço, it is a perfect place for a visit for two.
Tedo Farm
A stunning wine tourism experience. Tedo Farm offers personalized visits, where there will be plenty of teaching about wine and the various processes involved in its production. In 2023, the farm received the “Biosphere Sustainable” certificate, awarded by the Institute of Responsible Tourism. And for those who want an even more immersive experience in its landscape and ambience, it is even possible to have dinner and stay the night at the farm.
Whichever route you decide to take for this surprising trip, don't forget that Douro is a hot region, especially during spring and summer. Bring water, a hat and sunscreen, especially if you are traveling with children. For the rest, just let yourself get lost and be enchanted in these absolutely unique landscapes in the world!
We already know that the best memories are kept in the heart, but we strongly advise you to take a camera or cell phone: you will definitely want to capture some of the landscapes, as the beauty is sumptuous and unparalleled.
