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 a beautiful city with narrow cobbled streets perfect for exploring on foot. There is much to see and do, from the exciting Cais da Ribeira to the historic church of São Francisco. 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 will meet your crew, enjoy a welcome cocktail, and learn about your week ahead. Depending on the weather, the boat will cruise to the mouth of the Douro River in the evening.

Day 2: Porto - Regua
A guided exploration of Porto precedes a cruise toward Regua, the gateway to the Upper Douro Valley and the revered region of port wine production. Savor the sweet treats of Rebuçados da Régua. You have some options how you may want to pass the evening: dance away or explore the city independently.

Day 3: Regua - Pinhao - Vega de Terron, 4.3 mi. (7 km) 
Today is the first hiking tour to Provesende, trekking 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. 

Hike: 2.5 to 3 hours
Elevation gain: 1050 ft/320 m

Non-hikers' Program:  You will take a trip to Vila Réal to stroll through the beautiful gardens of the Mateus Palace. This Palace is one of Europe's most beautiful Baroque-style buildings, 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
A guided morning tour uncovers Salamanca's vibrant university city. Witness the sun transforming the sandstone buildings into a mesmerizing palette of colors. Once back on board, you enjoy an evening of delightful Flamenco entertainment.

Day 5: Barca d'Alva - Senhora da Ribeira, 5 mi. (8 km) 
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 unfolds, with a picnic lunch adding to the experience.  

HIke: 3 hours
Elevation gain: 1740 ft/530 m

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 will enjoy the gala evening and dinner.

Day 6: Senhora da Ribeira - Ferradosa - Pinhao - Regua - Bitetos, 8.6 mi. (14 km) 
Vineyards, vineyards, and more vineyards. These are the highlights of today's hike. You will discover a real paradise where nature has been lovingly protected. Lunch will be picnic-style before returning to the boat. 

Hike: 4 hours
Elevation loss:1650 ft/500 m 

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

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

Day 7: Bitetos - Porto, 5 mi. (8 km)
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 the city and the ocean. 

Hike: 2 to 2/5 hours
Elevation: Flat terrain 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 am.

You can view all of our hiking and walking tours or look at our featured trips, specials, & news.

• 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