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Old vineyards with red wine grapes in the Douro valley wine region near Porto, Portugal - Shutterstock Share
Portugal’s River of Wine
The Gems of South Africa
Around the World: A Timeless Douro Valley Experience ; Douro Valley Train Journey from Porto ; Scotland’s Most Scenic Road Trips and a whole lot more…
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Curious Cove: 17 BEST Things To Do In Douro Valley
The Douro Valley, often called the “enchanted valley,” is one of Portugal’s most breathtaking regions, known for its terraced vineyards, majestic river views, and rich cultural heritage. Starting in Porto, where the Douro River meets the sea, travellers can explore the region by car, boat, train, or even helicopter. The valley is home to the world’s oldest demarcated wine region, famous for producing Port and Douro wines. Along the route, don’t miss the wine estates (quintas) offering tastings and tours, or a night in a charming wine hotel. Must-see spots include the Port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, the Douro Museum in Peso da Régua, and the stunning blue-and-white tiled staircase at the Shrine of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios in Lamego.
In Pinhão, admire the azulejos at the railway station, and further east, visit the Vale do Côa Archaeological Park, an open-air gallery of prehistoric rock art. At Barca de Alva, enter the wild beauty of the International Douro Natural Park where the river forms the border with Spain. This UNESCO-listed cultural landscape combines natural splendour with human ingenuity, offering unforgettable experiences and panoramic viewpoints that capture the soul of Portugal
The Douro Valley is a historic wine region and registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural landscape - Shutterstock When planning a trip to South Africa, most people envision the iconic Table Mountain, Kruger National Park, or Cape Town's stunning beaches. But beyond the popular attractions lies a treasure trove of lesser-known gems that offer travellers a deeper, more authentic connection to the country. Exploring these hidden spots not only enriches your journey but also lets you escape the crowds and immerse yourself in South Africa’s unique culture, history and breathtaking landscapes.
These secret destinations provide unparalleled opportunities to connect with local traditions, discover untold stories, and uncover natural beauty. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, South Africa's hidden gems promise unforgettable experiences. Let’s take you off the beaten path to uncover the top seven destinations you should add to your itinerary
A fishing boat on the white sand of the beach at Paternoster - Shutterstock
Embark on a traditional Rabelo boat in Pinhão, where narrow, intimate waters and scenic UNESCO views enhance the charm of Port wine heritage. The ride offers both breathtaking landscapes and a rich history, with the chance to enjoy a unique lunch onboard
Take a breathtaking 3-hour train ride from Porto to the Douro Valley, passing through picturesque vineyards and scenic landscapes. With direct departures from Porto São Bento station, the route offers the chance to explore Régua, Pinhão, and Pocinho, with options to combine the journey with a river cruise
Gateway to the Alto Douro, the sun-bleached town of Régua abuts the Rio Douro at the western edge of the demarcated port-wine region. As the region’s largest riverside town, it grew into a major port-wine entrepôt in the 18th century, and remains an important transport junction – thanks in part to the hulking IP3 bridge that soars overhead
The Douro Valley, shaped by mountains, rivers, and tectonic forces, is a stunning blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity. From ancient rock art in the Côa Valley to the creation of terraced vineyards by Real Companhia Velha in 1756, the region embodies a rich history of transformation and ambition .
Caldas de Aregos' thermal waters, known for their therapeutic benefits, treat respiratory, dermatological, and musculoskeletal conditions. Offering a range of wellness services, including thermal pools, massages, and physical therapy, the spa is set in the serene Douro Valley
Scotland is a land made for road trips—a country where every mile tells a story. The scenery shifts from windswept coastlines and mirror-like lochs to towering mountains and moody moorlands, often in the space of a single drive. Around each bend lies something extraordinary: an ancient stone circle, a ruined abbey, or a Highland cow watching from the roadside. It’s a place where you don’t just pass through the landscape—you feel it. The roads may be narrow and winding, but they lead to moments you’ll never forget.
What makes a Scottish road trip unforgettable isn’t just the beauty—it’s the sense of stepping into history and myth. You might pause beside a battlefield where clans once clashed, wander through a centuries-old village, or stop at a remote bothy for tea with a view. From the vibrant culture of Edinburgh and Glasgow to the haunting stillness of the Hebrides, Scotland invites you to take your time, breathe in the fresh air, and discover its soul mile by mile. If you’ve ever dreamed of the open road, this is where you start the engine
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