My recent experience on Viking River Cruises’ “Portugal’s River of Gold” highlighted the stunning beauty of the Douro River Valley, accompanied by the rich cultural heritage of both Portugal and Spain. Aboard the Viking Torgil, a vessel specifically designed for navigating the Douro, I enjoyed comfortable accommodations for 106 guests and 33 crew members. The ship’s modern engineering and Scandinavian-inspired interiors made for a pleasant stay, especially in my 185 sq. ft. veranda suite, which provided fantastic views of the river.
The cruise featured a comprehensive cultural enrichment program, complete with guest speakers, menus crafted by master chefs, and engaging entertainment. I participated in classes on the Portuguese language, wine tasting, and learned to make pastel de nata, the renowned custard tarts.
This eight-day cruise proved to be an immersive exploration of the history and culture of Portugal and Spain. Viking arranged excursions to unveil the maritime history of Lisbon, the medieval university in Coimbra, and the wine-making traditions in the Douro Valley. Each day introduced new discoveries, from the charming streets of Porto to the picturesque vineyards of Pinhão, and the historic sites of Salamanca. Traveling through the Douro River Valley provided breathtaking landscapes and a deep appreciation for the region’s centuries-old winemaking heritage.
My journey commenced in Lisbon, a city celebrated for its vibrant culture and rich history. The narrow streets of the Alfama district, accompanied by soulful Fado music, set a captivating tone for the trip. Exploring the Belem district, I marveled at historical landmarks such as Belem Tower and the Jeronimos Monastery, which exemplify Portugal’s extensive history.
On the second day, my explorations continued with visits to iconic Lisbon monuments, followed by day trips to Sintra and Cascais. Sintra, with its romantic palaces and lush gardens, felt like stepping into a fairy tale. The colorful Pena Palace offered panoramic views, and trying a pastel de nata for the first time was a delightful highlight. The coastal town of Cascais was a charming contrast, with its stunning beaches and laid-back vibe, where I enjoyed grilled octopus in a local eatery.
Traveling to Porto on day three, I stopped in Coimbra, a historic city noted for its renowned university. The Santa Clara-a-Velha convent and the hilltop university, housing centuries of preserved learning, provided an insightful visit, enriched by a lunch accompanied by Fado music before heading to Porto.
On day four, I arrived in Régua, part of Portugal’s famed wine region, where I visited Casa do Douro to learn about the history of port wine amidst stunning views of the Serra do Marão mountains. Later, I enjoyed a thorough exploration of Pinhão, the epicenter of port wine production, where I toured several quintas and partook in a wine tasting experience.
Day five took me to Barca d’Alva, near the Spanish border, where terraced vineyards and simple cafés created a tranquil environment. I ventured into the surrounding countryside to explore Castelo Rodrigo, a medieval fortress town with cobblestone streets that reflect its historic significance.
Crossing into Spain on day six, Salamanca welcomed me with its splendid architecture as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city, with one of Europe’s oldest universities, enriched my exploration, including visits to the main square and indulgences in local gastronomies like tapas and churros.
Returning to Pinhão and Régua on the seventh day, I discovered the traditional bread-making techniques in Favaios and visited Sandeman’s winery, absorbing the captivating views of the Douro Valley.
On my eighth day in Lamego, I climbed the 686 steps to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, a popular pilgrimage site, while also exploring Lamego’s Gothic cathedral and local artisan shops.
Finally, my journey concluded in Porto, where I wandered through the city’s historic landscapes, browsing the iconic Luís I Bridge and visiting Porto Cathedral, before concluding my trip watching the vibrant city life along Ribeira’s riverfront.
As an expat, Julie Hosch, who had transitioned to life in Portugal after a fulfilling career, shared a relatable story of transformation. After a revelatory cruise on the Danube, she decided to take a leap of faith into retirement and relocate to Portugal, where she faced initial challenges but ultimately found a new sense of belonging and community.
In summary, the “Portugal’s River of Gold” cruise blended historical exploration, cultural engagement, and personal enrichment, making it an unforgettable journey filled with memorable moments and insightful experiences that captured the essence of travel.