Ancient Vines, Wines and Times in Portugal
It felt incredibly indulgent: hopping from my cozy bed just long enough to toss the curtains open, then plunging back into the covers so I could sip coffee while watching the dramatic landscape of Portugal?s Douro Valley ease by the boat. The landscape looks woven and pleated, a textured view of the mountain covered with vines as seen sparkling in the sunlight from the river.
We had a whole week on the Douro River, which seems to be marked by the contrast between trips to its historic shores and comforts of the easy, modern river passages.

Daily excursions in exceedingly comfortable coaches took us on mountain climbs up and down restless switchback roads to wander around in narrow, ancient streets so old you could hear the sigh of ages. You could put your shoes where others had walked in clanking armor and touch walls covered in hand-painted tiles centuries old. The organization of excursions is smoothly and professionally executed for a variety of activity level preferences, led by guides who make all transitions effortless
History abounds in Portugal as it was not bombed during WWII so there are buildings still standing which were constructed in the 1400s.  Each day brought a new, magical experience.  From the vibrant twin cities of Porto and Gaia to venerable teeming universities; from ancient, whispering castles and fierce stone fortresses to small cozy towns of only a few farmhouses it all exudes charm. Portugal is...