An Active Discovery of Portugal

Hop on a bicycle and explore Porto’s historic downtown, discovering among other important sites the Church of Carmelitas, the Church and Tower of Clérigos, São Bento railway station, Majestic Café, Square of Ribeira, Square of Batalha, the Mercado Ferreira Borges, the Church of Congregados and the famous Lello Bookstore.

Venture east out of Porto into the Alto Douro Wine Region, a UNESCO world heritage site, where a 7km (4.3 mile) trail follows the Douro River valley, flanked by vineyards. This is the oldest demarcated wine region in the world, dating from 1756. A visit to the Quinta da Pacheca estate, a historic property that has been bottling under its own name since 1738, offers the chance for an unforgettable tasting and a gourmet picnic.

Just two hours from Porto sits Romeu, a charming rural village and the start of a fantastic hiking trail. The trail forms a 13km (8 mile) circle around the area, which you will trek with a guide, taking in the gorgeous landscape, trickling streams, vineyards and typical Portuguese homes. At the trail’s midway point, climb to the village of Vila Verdinho, visiting the Chapel of São Gens, the town square, the parish house and the Quinta do Cabeço overlook. On the second half of the hike, stop in an old cork factory before checking out the shops back in Romeu and picking up some regional products.

This tour allows you to discover centuries of history, dating back to the time of the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans and Moors. You will visit the Castle of Saint Jorge and the surrounding area of Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest quarter, before learning about the Age of Discoveries and the Golden Era of Portugal.  Monuments from this time can still be seen, especially in the area of Belem. You will also visit Baixa and Chiado.

Arrabida Natural Park is a beautiful protected area south of Lisbon. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Hike the Chã dos Navegantes path around Cape Espichel, where the route leads to the top of a hill from where you can see the bay of Lagosteiros. It is from this place that the Pedra Mua can be seen, which consists of marks left by dinosaurs. Over the bay of Baleeira, visit the Forte de São Domingos da Baralha, which is now abandoned and in ruins.

Petiscos are the Portuguese cousin of Spanish tapas, small portions of different dishes, served at the centre of the table. ‘Having petiscos’ or eating ‘petiscos style’ is so popular there is even a verb, ‘petiscare’, whose approximate translation means to nibble on a few little bites with a glass of wine. Petiscos are meant to be simple, eaten with your hands or with a toothpick or a slice of bread to mop up the sauces. You will have the opportunity to chat with your Portuguese host and learn more about Portuguese life and traditions.

Hop on a bicycle and explore Porto’s historic downtown, discovering among other important sites the Church of Carmelitas, the Church and Tower of Clérigos, São Bento railway station, Majestic Café, Square of Ribeira, Square of Batalha, the Mercado Ferreira Borges, the Church of Congregados and the famous Lello Bookstore.

Venture east out of Porto into the Alto Douro Wine Region, a UNESCO world heritage site, to begin your hike. The 7km (4.3 mile) trail is flanked by vineyards and follows the Douro River valley. This is the oldest demarcated wine region in the world – dating from 1756 – and viticulture stretches back to the Romans.

Next visit the Quinta da Pacheca estate, a historic property that has been bottling under its own name since 1738. Before indulging in a tasting, take a full tour of the scenic family-owned winery and enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch with your hiking guide.

One of the best ways to get to know Portugal’s breathtaking countryside is on foot. Just two hours from Porto sits Romeu, a charming rural village and the start of a fantastic hiking trail. The trail forms a 13km (8 mile) circle around the area, which you will trek with your guide, taking in the gorgeous landscape, trickling streams, vineyards and typical Portuguese homes.

At the trail’s midway point, climb to the village of Vila Verdinho along a path of remarkable granite blocks. Once you reach the village, you will be able to explore all of its gems, such as the Chapel of São Gens, the town square, the parish house and the Quinta do Cabeço overlook. On the second half of the hike, stop in an old cork factory and dam where your guide will explain their former uses and importance to the surrounding villages. Back in Romeu, you will be invited to check out the shops where you may pick up some regional products, visit the Museum of Curiosities, the beautiful garden and church. Finally reward yourself with delicious meal at the famous Maria Rita restaurant.