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on which country we happen to be in, represents both a border and union of these
two Iberian countries. On the shores of the river we find historical sites such
as Zamora in Spain and Lamego in Portugal, where this country's independence was
recognized in the 12th century. Crossing the border into Portugal, we soon recognize
that this land no longer resembles Castile. From Miranda do Douro to Porto, the
river provides spectacular landscapes: the bare granite walls from the Arribes
give way to the terrace vineyards further inland, and finally the old neighborhoods
of Porto built on slopes and held together by daring steel bridges. |
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Arrival in Madrid
and transfer to Salamanca for overnight |
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Salamanca is now, and has always been, more than anything
a university city. The historical university buildings that have been preserved
since medieval and Renaissance times, are unique and many of them are open to
tourists. The homogenous mix of students and visitors beckons us to stroll through
its lively streets and to indulge in the festive atmosphere. Notable monuments
include the Plaza Mayor, the two Cathedrals -from Romanesque to Baroque- the House
of Shells, the San Esteban Convent, and the interesting Art Nouveau and Art Deco
Museum situated in the modernist Casa Lis. Overnight in Salamanca Possibility
of organizing a tapas lunch in Salamanca |
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In the morning we will visit Toro, a fine
area of red wines in the Duero region. The city offers surprising views of the
river, a medieval bridge and a charming Collegiate. After sampling Toro wines
at a local winery, we will head to Zamora and enjoy a peaceful stroll while visiting
the medieval district and cathedral, and some of the countless Romanesque churches
such as La Magdalena and San Ildefonso. Possibility of visiting a local cheese
producer with tasting Return to Salamanca for overnight |
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Heading towards Portugal, we will arrive at Las Arribes, a border region known
for a geological fault that turned the Duero River into a canyon that has become
the natural border between Portugal and Spain. An environmental boat tour will
reveal spectacular views and a unique microclimate. The city of Miranda do Douro,
a Portuguese bastion facing Spain, maintains its fortress-like appearance, dominated
by its Renaissance and Baroque Cathedral. We now turn towards Braganca, the capital
of Tras-os-Montes, another fortress town dating to Portugal's independence with
its outstanding castle and the Domus Municipalis, perhaps the only public Romanesque
building in Portugal. Possibility of organizing a regional lunch Overnight in
Braganca |
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We will now leave behind the beautiful, albeit severe Portuguese highlands in
search of the Douro, River. The High Douro region is an area of narrow, warm valleys
protected as much from the main stem river as its tributaries, thus creating ideal
conditions for the cultivation of the vines that provide the grape necessary for
Port wine. From Sao Joao da Pesqueira in the highlands, to Pinhao in the pit of
the valley, there are views to admire the patient and arduous labor needed to
cultivate these sloped hills. Possibility of visiting a winery with tasting In
the afternoon we will visit Vila Real with its 15th century cathedral and the
Baroque palace and gardens in nearby Mateus. Overnight in Vila Real |
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We will continue our visit through
the Douro valley in Lamego with its Romanesque Cathedral. Most interesting, however,
is the Nossa Senhora dos Remedios Sanctuary with its long Baroque stairs. Located
next to the Douro river is the city of Peso da Regua, which has recently been
able to look out upon the river since recently constructed dams have allowed to
control the river's flow. The city is becoming the leading producer of the region
of both Port and fine table wines. Possibility of visiting a winery with tasting
In the afternoon we will descend to the valleys heading towards the Atlantic coast
until arriving at Porto. Overnight in Porto |
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A scenic tour through the portside city of Porto will allow
us to discover its Romanesque Cathedral, the Torre dos Clerigos, the Cristal Palace,
the Stock Exchange and the districts on the banks of the Douro river. The second
city of Portugal has always been the most important industrial center of the country,
thanks in part to the benefits obtained by the wine commerce with England. The
cellars where the production of Port wines has always taken place are on the river
banks opposite the Douro, in Vila Nova de Gaia. Possibility of visiting a winery
with Port-wine tasting Our most indelible memory will be the magnificent views
of the city of Porto, its bridges and historical district, during a panoramic
cruise. Overnight in Porto Possibility of organizing a special farewell dinner |
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Transfer to the Porto
Airport. |
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