Hike & Boat in the Douro Valley & Salamanca

Day 1: Arrival in Porto
Day 2: Porto - Regua
Day 3: Regua - Pinhao - Vega de Terron, 4.3 mi./1050 ft elevation gain (7 km/320 m elevation gain)
Day 4: Vega de Terron - Salamanca - Barca d'Alva
Day 5: Barca d'Alva - Senhora da Ribeira, 5 mi./1,740 ft elevation gain (8km/530 m elevation gain)
Day 6: Senhora da Ribeira - Ferradosa - Pinhao - Regua - Bitetos, 8.6 mi./1,650 ft descent (14km/500 m descent)
Day 7: Bitetos - Porto, 5 mi. (8km, flat terrain)
Day 8: Departure from Porto

All distances are approximate. The itinerary is subject to change, at times without prior notice.  Some waterways may be subject to occasional closures due to drought, storms, floods, canal or lock repairs, or other unforeseen circumstances that make navigation unsafe or impossible. The captain reserves the right to make any changes deemed necessary.

Day 1: Arrival in Porto
Porto, designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996, is an elegant city with narrow cobbled streets which are perfect to explore on foot. There is much to see and do, from the exciting Cais da Ribeira to the historic church of São Francisco and everything in between. If you arrive early enough, you can even visit the numerous beaches surrounding the city and dip your toes in the brisk Atlantic ocean. 

You are welcome to board in Porto at 5 pm. After settling into your cabin, you'll get an introduction from the crew along with a welcome cocktail. You'll also receive a presentation on the hiking program. In the evening, depending on the weather, the boat will cruise to the mouth of the Douro River.

Day 2: Porto - Regua
You'll have a guided tour of Porto before setting sail toward Regua. Regua is often referred to as the gateway to the Alto (upper) Douro Valley, a region famous for its port wine production. While in the area, be sure to sample some sweet treats called rebuçados da Régua, a classical recipe of water, honey, sugar, and port wine. Enjoy an evening of dancing or a stroll through the city on your own.

Day 3: Regua - Pinhao - Vega de Terron, 4.3 mi./1050 ft elevation gain (7 km/320 m elevation gain)
Today is the first hiking tour to Provesende. You’ll wind your way up through the low brush, green forests, and rolling hills to one of the oldest villages in Portugal, Provesende. Provesende’s most notable attraction, the manor house Morgadio Da Calçada, was built around 1680 and is still owned by the original family. 

2.5 to 3 hrs hike.

Non-hikers' Program: You'll take a trip to Vila Réal to stroll through the beautiful gardens of the Mateus Palace. This Palace is by far one of the most beautiful Baroque-style buildings in Europe, classified as a national monument for over 100 years. The afternoon will be spent sailing through the heart of the most famous vineyards in Porto. 

Day 4: Vega de Terron - Salamanca - Barca d'Alva
You are in for a treat as you will participate in a guided tour of Salamanca in the morning. Salamanca is a vibrant university city, with a multitude of historic palaces, convents, and squares. You will be amazed at how the sun manages to transform the sandstone buildings from white to pink to yellow as the day goes on; it is no wonder why it is considered Spain's "golden city". 

You'll return to the boat in the afternoon. In the evening, you'll enjoy delightful Flamenco entertainment.

Day 5: Barca d'Alva - Senhora da Ribeira, 5 mi./1,740 ft elevation gain (8km/530 m elevation gain)
The hike begins in a wild mountainous setting with incredible panoramic views of the Douro River and Spain. The beauty of the Douro National Park is stunning. You will enjoy a picnic lunch before returning to the boat. 

3 hrs hike.

Non-hikers' Program: There is an excursion to Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo. This place is a cluster of attractions where nature and heritage go hand in hand, without a hint of overcrowding. Almond trees are ever-present and the Douro and Águeda rivers mark the territory. Places of interest like the monastery of Santa María de Aguiar and Rodrigo Castle will transport you back in time. 

After returning to the boat, the afternoon will be spent sailing to Senhora da Ribeira. Tonight you'll enjoy the gala evening and dinner.

Day 6: Senhora da Ribeira - Ferradosa - Pinhao - Regua - Bitetos, 8.6 mi./1,650 ft descent (14km/500 m descent)
Vineyards, vineyards, and more vineyards. This is the highlight of today's hike. You'll discover a real paradise where nature has been lovingly protected. Lunch will be picnic-style before returning to the boat. 

4 hrs hike.

Non-hikers' Program: For anyone interested in wine, this excursion is for you. You'll enjoy various tastings of Porto's wines. 

You'll cruise to Bitetos, arriving in the evening. Afterward, you'll enjoy some Fado entertainment.

Day 7: Bitetos - Porto, 5 mi. (8km, flat terrain)
This morning will be spent sailing to Porto, from where the hike will begin along the banks of the Douro River. You'll arrive at its estuary, admiring the breathtaking views of both the city and the ocean. 

2 to 2.5 hrs hike.

Non-hikers' Program: You'll enjoy an excursion to Guimaraes. Known as the "Cradle of Portugal", Guimaraes is the birthplace of this country. The historical center is exceptionally well-preserved and serves as an authentic example of the evolution of a medieval settlement into a modern town.

Traditional folk entertainment will close out your last evening on board. 

Day 8: Departure from Porto
Everyone will enjoy one last breakfast buffet on board before disembarking at 9:00 a.m.

• Infante Don Henrique

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  Welcome on board the MS Infante Don Henrique! Renovated in 2014, this tastefully decorated boat is ready to welcome you on the Douro River! Read More