Venture beyond the familiar and discover Vinho Verde, an elegant wine region where crisp, youthful wines are born from granite-rich soils, a cool Atlantic breeze, and generations of artisanal expertise. For wine lovers visiting Portugal, tasting these vibrant, light-bodied and often slightly effervescent wines is an absolute must, and our private full-day excursion from Porto takes you on a delectable journey of discovery, visiting 2 exceptional wine estates and introducing you to the region’s lush landscapes and historic towns.
On this full-day excursion from Porto, you will:
- Spend a full day exploring the Vinho Verde wine region;
- Enjoy the undivided attention of your experienced local driver-guide;
- Have a seamless start to your day with convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off;
- Embark on a scenic route through the breathtaking landscapes of the Alto Minho region;
- Learn more about the Vinho Verde DOC’s distinctive geography and how it impacts the flavours and complexities of the wines it produces;
- Pass through the picturesque town of Arcos de Valdevez;
- Visit 2 different wineries to gain insights into Vinho Verde viticulture;
- Taste some of the finest wines each estate has to offer;
- Experience the Vinho Verde region’s rustic cuisine with a traditional lunch at a local restaurant;
- Discover Valença do Minho, a fascinating enclave on the Spanish border and visit its distinctive star-shaped fortress.
Set off from Porto for an adventure through the lush and enchanting landscapes of Portugal’s Vinho Verde wine region, where centuries-old traditions meet vibrant flavours and stunning scenery. After a comfortable hotel pickup, your expert local guide will lead you on a pleasant drive north, weaving through rolling green hills and vine-covered valleys on the way towards Portugal’s northern frontier. Your first stop is the beautiful town of Arcos de Valdevez, nestled on the banks of the River Vez. Here, you'll enjoy a relaxed stroll through its charming streets, taking in the traditional granite architecture and tranquil riverside views that reflect the slow pace and authenticity of life in the Minho province, home of the Vinho Verde DOC.
You’ll then make your way to Melgaço, one of the most celebrated subregions for Alvarinho wines. At a renowned estate, you’ll tour the vineyard and cellar while learning about the unique terroir and winemaking methods that make Vinho Verde so distinctive. You will then enjoy a guided tasting of crisp, aromatic wines that set the tone for the day’s delicious discoveries. After the tasting, you’ll go for a leisurely traditional lunch at a local restaurant where the rustic cuisine of northern Portugal takes centre stage. You can expect hearty flavours, fresh ingredients, and perfect pairings with regional wines.
After lunch, you’ll be immersed in local history with a visit to Valença do Minho, a striking fortified town perched on the Spanish border. Your guide will lead you through the imposing star-shaped fortress, regaling you with stories of centuries of battles to defend the territory from Spanish invaders. You’ll also have the opportunity to browse artisanal shops and enjoy panoramic views across the River Minho into Spain. Later, your guide will take you into the heart of the Lima Valley at a second esteemed winery near Ponte de Lima, known for its elegant wines made from autochthonous Loureiro grapes. You will enjoy another guided tasting and vineyard visit that will deepen your appreciation for the region’s diversity of grape varieties and winemaking styles.
As your tour comes to a close, you can relax on the return drive to Porto, captivated by new flavours, landscapes and intriguing stories from one of Portugal’s most extraordinary wine regions.
