An Insider's Trip to Portugal
See a different side to Portugal. On this two-week trip, explore lesser-known villages and towns that invite you to journey deeper. Head to the far north where the spring waters of Vidago offer a sanctuary of wellness amid rolling countryside. Then venture into the Serra da Estrela mountains to experience culture, tradition and unmatched natural beauty. Your next stop in Santar introduces you to Portugal’s silky Dão wines before a tranquil stay on the Douro River concludes your extraordinary adventure.
Trip highlights
- Discover Vidago’s bucolic natural beauty on guided hikes
- Cruise the Douro River aboard a sailboat
- Explore the traditions behind Portuguese porcelain and wool
- Head deep into Serra da Estrela on a thrilling jeep ride
- Unearth the secrets behind Portuguese wine
- Trace the coastline to uncover charming seaside villages
Our bespoke trips include
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Privately guided tours
- Private transfers
- Meticulously selected experiences
- Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
Days 1–4
Start in Vidago
After your arrival in Porto you’ll be whisked to the small spa village of Vidago in northern Portugal, renowned for its natural springs. During the 19th century, Vidago was the beloved retreat of the Portuguese nobility. The village itself is encircled by rolling hills and emerald woodland where outdoor adventures beckon. On a guided hike, forests open up to reveal sweeping views that stretch across the countryside.
During your stay in Vidago base yourself at the Vidago Palace Hotel. Commissioned in the early 20th century by King Carlos I of Portugal, the hotel is a tribute to the splendour of the Belle Époque era. Admire details like silk wallpapers, antique furnishings, marble staircases and elegant columns. Across the estate, you’ll also discover an 18-hole golf course, a spa inspired by the region’s healing waters as well as a grand dining room and lavish ballroom.
Around Vidago
History
Hiking
Wine
Explore Guimarães
Visit the remarkably preserved medieval city of Guimarães, known as the birthplace of Portugal’s first king. The town itself is made up of narrow twisting lanes that reveal majestic convents, churches and mansions. Marvel at its elegant buildings and see the development of Portuguese architecture from the 15th to 19th century. Then head to the 10th-century Guimarães Castle for panoramic city views.
Wind through the countryside
Set off on foot with an expert local guide along scenic trails through the lush landscape. Drawing on their firsthand knowledge of the land, your guide will unveil the history and heritage of Vidago. Pause with a nourishing picnic while taking in views of the rolling hills and dense forests that unfold around you.
Enjoy a guided tasting in the demarcated region of Vinho Verde
Join a wine expert at Casa de Sezim, a manor house and winery that traces its origins back to the 14th century. Delve into the secrets behind its specialities including the crisp and refreshing Vinho Verde, before enjoying a masterfully prepared three-course meal.
Connect with the culture of the Douro Valley
From Vidago, you’ll journey to the Douro Valley where life is shaped by winemakers, artisans, chefs and sailors. After a leisurely cruise along the Douro River aboard a sailboat, you’ll meet the craftswomen who help keep the region’s traditions alive. Then delight in a guided wine tasting that’s perfectly paired with a wholesome lunch. As you dine, hear captivating stories from your guide that offer a glimpse into the local way of life.
Days 4–7
Into the heart of the Serra da Estrela mountains
Next, head into the mountains of Serra da Estrela. Here steep slopes plunge into deep glacial valleys, meeting millennia-old granite boulders, hillside villages and fields strewn with bellflowers, junipers and rosemary. Golden eagles and peregrine falcons circle the skies while wolves, foxes and boars roam the forests below.
Tucked in the heart of the Guarda district, lies the mountain village of Manteigas. You’ll stay at the Casa das Penhas Douradas where views of the Serra da Estrela range unfold as far as the eye can see. At the hotel’s restaurant, dining reflects the seasons and ingredients fresh from the earth. Spa treatments also take their cues from nature. Feel renewed after a restorative massage where fragrant oils infused with herbs plucked from the mountains soothe every muscle.
Make it mine
Jeep thrills
Heritage revealed
Journey across the mountain ridges of Serra da Estrela
Embark on an exhilarating jeep ride through Serra da Estrela, the highest mountain range in Continental Portugal. Venture into areas dominated by nature, explore rugged granite landscapes dotted with remote mountain villages and uncover the stories of their residents. Highlights along the way include the medieval castle of Linhares da Beira and the Chapel of Saint Lawrence of Manteigas surrounded by centuries-old oak trees.
Experience the region's history and crafts
Your exploration begins with a visit to the Burel Factory where you can witness traditional wool crafts woven on ancient looms. You’ll then head to Belmonte to delve into the history of the only surviving Sephardic Jewish community on the Iberian Peninsula. Wander through the Jewish Quarter and explore the Jewish Museum, home to fascinating exhibitions on the village’s Jewish community. Next head to the Castle of Belmonte, an imposing medieval fortress-palace whose castle walls and towers are still intact today.
Uncover Viseu's past through its architecture
Visit Viseu, an ancient city where cobbled streets and tiled facades echo tales of a rich cultural heritage. Wander its medieval lanes to see 16th century houses decorated with gargoyles and Gothic windows. You’ll also discover a spectacular collection of religious architecture blending Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque styles. Set in the heart of the city is the Viseu Cathedral. You’ll explore its ornate interior and magnificent churchyard.
Days 7–10
Three nights in Santar
Your next destination is the tiny village of Santar, offering a peaceful retreat between gentle hills, ancient walls and rows of vines. Among its traditional Portuguese facades you’ll uncover a treasure trove of gardens with manicured rose bushes, sculptures and bright green boxwood hedges.
Set in the middle of vineyards, Valverde Santar Hotel & Spa is the perfect place to call home while exploring Santar. When you’re not out discovering the countryside, take a moment to enjoy a dip in the pool, enjoy a treatment at the spa or go for a stroll through the village. At dinnertime, savour dishes that capture the essence of this land, combining traditional flavours and local ingredients with a contemporary approach.
Make it mine
From vine to glass
Into the countryside
Step into the world of wine-making in the Dão region
Visit the historic cooperative of Adega de Penalva do Castelo which brings together more than a thousand growers who collectively tend to over 1200 hectares of vineyards. Explore the winery and learn about its modern methods. You’ll delve into the processes behind its acclaimed red wines crafted from grape varieties grown on the region’s granitic terrain, before a private wine tasting experience.
Uncover the beauty of Santar
Set off on a gentle hike through Santar’s countryside, tracing paths through vineyards and traditional villages while hearing stories of its heritage from your guide. You’ll experience the landscape’s incredible natural beauty along the way as you uncover river beaches and secret streams.
See more
To the seaside
Behind Portuguese porcelain
See the striped houses of Costa Nova
Tucked along Portugal’s west coast where the Ria de Aveiro meets the Atlantic Ocean, is Costa Nova. Stroll the main street and admire its pretty traditional houses, former fishing storages called palheiros painted in bright bold stripes. Then pause at a restaurant to savour freshly grilled fish.
Trace the artistry of Portuguese porcelain
Visit the Vista Alegre Museum to uncover the 200 year old legacy of its porcelain factory as you observe collections brimming with exquisite pieces and intricate patterns. You’ll also stop by the chapel dedicated to the patroness of Vista Alegre. Explore its beautiful interior, embellished with delicate tilework, marble altarpieces, gilded woodcarvings and original frescoes.
Days 10–12
End your journey in Castelo de Paiva
To round out your extraordinary adventure through Portugal you’ll head to Castelo de Paiva, located in the Aveiro district on the banks of the Douro River.
Your final stay is Octant Douro, rising from the town’s hillside terraces. Every interior space centres on the uninterrupted view over the river to connect you with the landscape. At the hotel’s restaurants, you’ll enjoy regional specialities and one of the most comprehensive curated Douro wine lists in the country.
Embark on the coastal route
Flit between the region’s picturesque coastal villages that line the route to Porto. Unravel the seafaring heritage of Vila do Conde, discover the golden beaches of Póvoa de Varzim and walk over the sand dunes of Espinho, watching powerful waves crash onto the shore. End your exploration with a delicious meal while gazing out to sea.
We just completed an outstanding trip to Portugal. Dan was a great asset, and made the process run smoothly. We really appreciated the extra details, such as a private "hands-on" experience at a local chef's home. We have travelled extensively, and my wife remarked that she enjoyed the trip so much, she would like to go back. Mind you, we…
Why book with Jacada
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive Impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.
