Douro Valley Tastes & Tales: A Chef’s Journey AUGUST 25, 2026 Embark on an exclusive full-day journey through the heart of the Douro Valley, guided by a local chef who unveils the region’s culinary and wine secrets. Begin with a serene private boat cruise from Folgosa to Pinhão, before heading to Quinta do Seixo for an immersive experience: explore the vineyards by buggy, learning about the valley’s produce and traditions. Savor a refined lunch overlooking the river, personally bc presented by the chef. The day concludes with a visit to a boutique Port wine estate and a tasting straight from the barrel, paired with a homemade local dessert. To reserve, please use the below contact information. Íris Samissone isamissone@thelittleorange.pt
A Curated Day in Bairrada: Wine, Artistry & Sweet Heritage A day dedicated to Portugal’s finest flavours, traditions, and artistry. The morning begins at the prestigious Luís Pato Winery, with a guided vineyard visit, wine tasting, and an exclusive lunch with the producer himself— featuring the iconic Leitão à Bairrada (sucking piglet, typical from the region) perfectly paired with signature wines. After lunch, creativity takes the stage in the Pão de Ló Tile Workshop. yes, it’s correct: A tile entirely created out of puff cake, blending the sweetness of this traditional cake with the charm of Portugal’s tile art. The day concludes with an elegant tasting experience, featuring a refined selection of Pão de Ló: inspired delicacies paired with Port Wine, sparkling wine, Moscatel, or the house’s own Pão de Ló liqueur. A true celebration of local craftsmanship and flavour. To reserve, please use the below contact information. Íris Samissone isamissone@thelittleorange.pt
Costa Nova is a colorful, traditional resort village on the central coast of Portugal, famous for its charming, brightly striped houses (palheiros) that were once used by fishermen for storing equipment. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches with dunes and boardwalks, surfing on the Atlantic waves, and a promenade popular with locals and tourists. The area also offers a chance to watch waterfowl at the nearby Aveiro Lagoon and sample fresh seafood at seaside restaurants.
Gondola rides in Aveiro, Portugal, are taken on traditional, colorful Moliceiro boats that navigate the city's central canals, offering views of Art Nouveau architecture and historical areas. While sometimes called "gondolas," they are flat-bottomed, tapered-hull boats once used for harvesting seaweed and transporting goods, and now serve a tourist purpose.
Porto is Portugal's second-largest city, a historic coastal urban center known for its namesake Port wine, its UNESCO World Heritage Ribeira district, and a blend of old-world charm and modern creativity. Situated on the Douro River in the country's north, the city boasts narrow, cobbled streets, colourful, time-worn houses, and a granite landscape, all while offering a vibrant culinary scene and lively nightlife.
Nazaré, Portugal, is a picturesque coastal town on the Silver Coast, famous for its massive, world-record-breaking waves at Praia do Norte, a phenomenon caused by a deep underwater canyon. While known for "big wave" surfing, Nazaré is also a traditional fishing village with golden sands, fresh seafood, and a distinctive cultural heritage, including women in traditional seven-layered skirts. The town offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and thrilling surf, with attractions like the Sítio cliff providing panoramic views and a famous Nazaré Lighthouse.
Fátima is a central Portuguese town that's home to the Sanctuary of Fátima, a Catholic pilgrimage site. The Capelinha das Aparições marks the spot where the Virgin Mary allegedly appeared in 1917. Other sacred sites include the Basílica de Nossa Senhora do Rosário, with its golden angels, and the modern church of Igreja da Santíssima Trindade. The Museu de Arte Sacra e Etnologia exhibits religious artifacts.
If fairytales had a setting, this castle would be it! Perched high above the town of Ourém, it’s full of history, sweeping views, and just the right amount of magic. It also happens to be where Chris got down on one knee and Tori said “yes!”—so we might be a little biased, but we think it’s worth the trip.
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a historic city built on seven hills by the Tagus River, known for its vibrant cultural mix, ancient neighborhoods like Alfama and Castelo, and landmarks such as the Belém Tower and Monument to the Discoveries. A city of enduring charm and a Mediterranean climate, it boasts sandy beaches nearby, offers a rich history influenced by Phoenicians and Moors, and is famous for its Fado music. !! Be sure to stop at Pasteis de Belem for Portugal's famous pastry, the Pastel De Nata !!
Cascais is a coastal resort town in Portugal, just west of Lisbon. It’s known for its sandy beaches and busy marina. The old town is home to the medieval Nossa Senhora da Luz Fort and the Citadel Palace, a former royal retreat. Nearby is the whitewashed Nossa Senhora da Assunção church, with glazed azulejo tiles.