Vineyard breaks in Porto and the Douro Valley

However, those who venture up to the Douro Valley, a couple of hours away, will be rewarded with further riches. Narrow terraces of vines, some built hundreds of years ago and still maintained in the traditional way, follow the contours of the valley’s steep slopes that weave into the rugged, breathtakingly beautiful landscape.

The region is most famous for port but is increasingly making table wines made from all manner of native grapes and deeply rooted in the unique terroir. Take a day trip from Porto to visit wineries or stay a few nights at any of the quirky B&Bs, vineyard stays, historic hotels and spa resorts that dot the area. Rent a car and explore on your own terms or take the train from Porto to the pretty towns of Peso da Régua and Pinhão where you can take wine-based river boat trips.

Tivoli Kopke Hotel, Porto Gaia

In a prime spot in Gaia with fabulous views across the river to Porto, this gorgeous five-star hotel has chic rooms, a spa, one of the few outdoor pools in the area, a rooftop bar for sundowners and a glamorous jazz club for late night revelry. Choose Michelin recommended food in the smart 1638 restaurant or go for more low-key dining at the Boa Vista Terrace – don’t miss the iconic rooster rice dish there. tivolihotels.com.

Quinta do Vallado Wine Hotel, Régua

Just two miles from Peso da Régua, this is one of the oldest wineries in the region and is now in the hands of the sixth generation. Choose from rooms in the original manor house surrounded by gorgeous gardens, more minimalist rooms in its sleek modern wing, each with a private balcony, or luxurious suites in Casa da Eira nearby. There’s a pool, spa and restaurant using produce from the garden, and a variety of tours and tastings. quintadovallado.com.

Quinta do Bomfim, Pinhão

Conveniently located right on the river in Pinhão, Quinta do Bomfim is part of the Symington Family Estates stable and has been producing Dow’s ports from the adjacent vineyards since 1896. Its fascinating tours and tastings have won global tourism awards, as has its Bomfim 1896 restaurant with a wood-burning oven at its heart. symington.com.

Real Companhia Velha, Vila Nova de Gaia

Founded in 1756, this is the oldest wine company in Portugal and runs various tours and tastings in its cellars, and its fascinating museum which covers the history and culture of the region. Eat afterwards at the lovely Enoteca 17.56 restaurant with panoramic views across the river and very good food. realcompanhiavelha.pt.

Quinta da Pedra Alta, Alijó

Under new ownership since 2018, this remote estate, run by a young and innovative team making excellent modern table wines, as well as ports, is well worth a detour. Visit the winery and cellars, take an off-road vineyard tour, then enjoy a picnic at the highest point of the property with stunning views across the region. qpa.pt.

Libatio, Régua

Despite being in this historic town where narrow streets wind up the hill from the river, Libatio wouldn’t look out of place in Hackney. A wine bar focusing on international and regional table wines rather than port, it’s where the young and switched-on winemakers hang out. Cool wines, cool music, cool vibe. libatio.pt.

DOC, Folgosa

On the south bank of the river halfway between Régua and Pinhão, this is high-end, destination dining in a wonderful location. Great cocktails, inventive cooking, faultless service and an incredible 700+ bottle wine list – there’s even a cigar menu for postprandial puffing. docrestaurante.pt.

Toca da Raposa, Ervedosa do Douro

There’s no website for this hidden gem, family-run restaurant that’s beloved by locals for its traditional food and excellent wine list. Kid goat is its most famous dish but there’s plenty of other choice, too. Be sure to phone and book ahead, especially at weekends. +351 969 951 191.