Nestled in northern Portugal, not too far from the city of Porto, the Douro Valley is renowned for stunning landscapes, terraced vineyards and of course, its world-class wines.
While you may be thinking that a wine tour might not seem like the most kid-friendly activity, the Douro Valley offers a surprising array of family-friendly attractions and experiences and just because you’re a parent, if it’s on your travel bucket list, you needn’t put it off!
Here are some tips to help you plan a short holiday in this beautiful Portuguese region, with your children in tow.
Travelling through the picturesque Douro Valley
The journey to get to the Douro Valley is an exciting adventure in itself. Whether you choose to travel by car, train, or boat, the views across the mountains as you enter the valley are quite simply breathtaking. The train ride from the Porto to Pinhão – which is around 50km – is particularly lovely, following the river and winding through the vineyards. Kids will love the excitement of the journey, spotting castles, bridges, and the beautiful Douro River along the way.
One of the best ways to experience the Douro Valley is from the river itself, and many companies offer short cruises that are perfect for families. Some cruises even include a stop at a vineyard where both adults and children can explore and learn. If you’re more adventurous, then you can canoe or water ski on the river.
The Douro Valley is also good for walking trails which are suitable for all ages. The Alvão Natural Park offers trails that range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, providing plenty of opportunities for kids to burn off some energy. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch with views of the the vineyards or by the riverbank.
Taking part in kid-friendly wine tours and activities
Not the most natural of bedfellows maybe, but believe it or not, some Wine tours in Douro Valley cater specifically to the increasing number of families who travel to the area. Many of these vineyards offer more than just wine tasting; some have beautiful estates where kids can explore the gardens, play in open spaces, and even participate in grape harvesting activities during the season. Several vineyards and local businesses offer educational activities tailored specifically to children. These can include grape juice tasting, learning about the life cycle of grapes, and understanding the basics of wine-making (minus the alcohol, of course).
Meanwhile, parents can enjoy a wine tasting and learn about the wine-making process.
The Port Wine Museum in Peso da Régua is an engaging and educational experience for both adults and children alike. The museum features interactive exhibits that explain the history and production of Port wine. Children will like the the hands-on displays teaching visitors about the cultural significance of the wine industry in the Douro Valley.
Exploring the local area
Pinhão is a charming town at the heart of the Douro Valley which is just ideal for a family visit. You can start with a trip to the Pinhão train station which is famous for its beautiful blue and white azulejos (tiles) which show fascinating scenes of the local wine harvest.
Lamego
Lamego is a delightful town to explore with kids. The highlight is the Santuário de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies) which is a stunning church perched on a hilltop. To get to it, there is a grand staircase of 686 steps leading up to it. The climb is a fun challenge for kids, and the view from the top is worth the effort.
Lamego also boasts the Lamego Museum, which offers insights into the region’s history and culture.
Vila Real
Another charming village to visit is Vila Real which is well known for its historical architecture and beautiful landscapes. The highlight for families is the Casa de Mateus (Mateus Palace), a stunning baroque mansion and gardens. Children can will explore both the palace and its grounds, and the whole family can learn about the history and culture of the region.
Trying traditional Portuguese cuisine
No trip to Portugal is complete without indulging in the local cuisine and a visit to the Douro Valley is no exception. Many restaurants offer traditional food food for the region such as grilled meats, fresh seafood, and hearty Portuguese stews.
Kids will love the pastéis de nata (which are very much like custard tarts) and other sweet treats. Some vineyards offer family-friendly dining options which give you a spectacular views of the valley.
The Douro Valley may be most famous for its exquisite wine, but it also makes a wonderful destination for a family holiday. With its stunning scenery, delicious food and a variety of child-friendly activities, it offers something for everyone.