A Unesco World Heritage site since 2001, the Douro Valley is a spectacular wilderness, one of the oldest wine regions in the world. Traditionally, the wine was taken downriver in flat-bottom boats called rabelos, to be stored in barrels in cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia (where most all of my family is from)The Douro River and the Douro Valley are known primarily for Port, a sweet wine that has been produced here for two thousand years. This is where the next connection to family roots comes in. My great grandfather was a cooper, (barrel maker) and a great aunt that was a Barqueira, (a worker on the rabelo boats that brought the port down the river). Our day visitng the Douro Valley was filled with breathtaking views, and a tour of 2 working, family run Quintas(Wine producing estate). One Quinta where port wine is produced, and the other where olive oil is the specialty, and small wine production complete with the six generation family label. We experienced nice wines from the valley, and fantastic views from above the river. Our day ended below at the river for a river cruise. In my happy place!
Laura e José 