Hike & Boat in the Douro Valley & Salamanca
Portugal, Spain Hiking + Walking Tours
Embark on an awesome adventure in Portugal & Spain with hiking & cruising!
Overview
You have known us for years for our bike and boat tours. Now, let us introduce Hike and Boat, featuring two of our favorite countries: Portugal and Spain. We are all about active vacations, and this tour will not disappoint, immersing in everything we all love about travel: local culture, history, and cuisine.
Your start in charming Porto sets the stage for this guided, active vacation, then leading into the heart of some of Europe's oldest landscapes. The hidden treasures of UNESCO-listed sites are unveiled. The historic center of Oporto charms with its narrow, winding streets and colorful medieval buildings with tiled facades.
As you cruise the Douro River, the area's natural beauty unfolds. The terraced stone vineyards, rolling hills, and rugged terrain blend to create a magical landscape.
This unique itinerary includes vibrant Salamanca, the "Golden City", with numerous architectural splendors. The changing hues of the sandstone buildings throughout the day, from white to pink to yellow, create a mesmerizing visual spectacle.
Highlights
- Porto
- Douro River cruising
- Porto Wine Route
- Douro Valley and Douro National Park
- Diverse landscapes
- Provesende, oldest village in Portugal
- Mateus Palace
- Guided tour of Salamanca
- Guimaraes, the "Cradle of Portugal"
- Portuguese terraced vineyards
- Unesco-listed sites
Love the tour but you don't hike? There are wonderful non-hiking options available as well!
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Porto
Day 2: Porto - Regua
Day 3: Regua - Pinhao - Vega de Terron, 4.3 mi./1050 ft elevation gain (7 km/320 m elevation gain)
Day 4: Vega de Terron - Salamanca - Barca d'Alva
Day 5: Barca d'Alva - Senhora da Ribeira, 5 mi./1,740 ft elevation gain (8km/530 m elevation gain)
Day 6: Senhora da Ribeira - Ferradosa - Pinhao - Regua - Bitetos, 8.6 mi./1,650 ft descent (14km/500 m descent)
Day 7: Bitetos - Porto, 5 mi. (8km, flat terrain)
Day 8: Departure from PortoAll distances are approximate. The itinerary is subject to change, at times without prior notice. Some waterways may be subject to occasional closures due to drought, storms, floods, canal or lock repairs, or other unforeseen circumstances that make navigation unsafe or impossible. The captain reserves the right to make any changes deemed necessary.
Day 1: Arrival in Porto
Porto, designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996, is a beautiful city with narrow cobbled streets perfect for exploring on foot. There is much to see and do, from the exciting Cais da Ribeira to the historic church of São Francisco. If you arrive early enough, you can even visit the numerous beaches surrounding the city and dip your toes in the brisk Atlantic Ocean.You are welcome to board in Porto at 5 pm. After settling into your cabin, you will meet your crew, enjoy a welcome cocktail, and learn about your week ahead. Depending on the weather, the boat will cruise to the mouth of the Douro River in the evening.
Day 2: Porto - Regua
A guided exploration of Porto precedes a cruise toward Regua, the gateway to the Upper Douro Valley and the revered region of port wine production. Savor the sweet treats of Rebuçados da Régua. You have some options how you may want to pass the evening: dance away or explore the city independently.Day 3: Regua - Pinhao - Vega de Terron, 4.3 mi. (7 km)
Today is the first hiking tour to Provesende, trekking your way up through the low brush, green forests, and rolling hills to one of the oldest villages in Portugal, Provesende. Provesende’s most notable attraction, the manor house Morgadio Da Calçada, was built around 1680 and is still owned by the original family.
Hike: 2.5 to 3 hours
Elevation gain: 1050 ft/320 mNon-hikers' Program: You will take a trip to Vila Réal to stroll through the beautiful gardens of the Mateus Palace. This Palace is one of Europe's most beautiful Baroque-style buildings, classified as a national monument for over 100 years. The afternoon will be spent sailing through the heart of the most famous vineyards in Porto.
Day 4: Vega de Terron - Salamanca - Barca d'Alva
A guided morning tour uncovers Salamanca's vibrant university city. Witness the sun transforming the sandstone buildings into a mesmerizing palette of colors. Once back on board, you enjoy an evening of delightful Flamenco entertainment.Day 5: Barca d'Alva - Senhora da Ribeira, 5 mi. (8 km)
The hike begins in a wild mountainous setting with incredible panoramic views of the Douro River and Spain. The beauty of the Douro National Park unfolds, with a picnic lunch adding to the experience.HIke: 3 hours
Elevation gain: 1740 ft/530 mNon-hikers' Program: There is an excursion to Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo. This place is a cluster of attractions where nature and heritage go hand in hand, without a hint of overcrowding. Almond trees are ever-present and the Douro and Águeda rivers mark the territory. Places of interest like the monastery of Santa María de Aguiar and Rodrigo Castle will transport you back in time.
After returning to the boat, the afternoon will be spent sailing to Senhora da Ribeira. Tonight you will enjoy the gala evening and dinner.
Day 6: Senhora da Ribeira - Ferradosa - Pinhao - Regua - Bitetos, 8.6 mi. (14 km)
Vineyards, vineyards, and more vineyards. These are the highlights of today's hike. You will discover a real paradise where nature has been lovingly protected. Lunch will be picnic-style before returning to the boat.Hike: 4 hours
Elevation loss:1650 ft/500 mNon-hikers' Program: For anyone interested in wine, this excursion is for you. You'll enjoy various tastings of Porto's wines.
You will cruise to Bitetos, arriving in the evening. Afterward, you'll enjoy some Fado entertainment.
Day 7: Bitetos - Porto, 5 mi. (8 km)
This morning will be spent sailing to Porto, from where the hike will begin along the banks of the Douro River. You'll arrive at its estuary, admiring the breathtaking views of the city and the ocean.Hike: 2 to 2/5 hours
Elevation: Flat terrain 2 to 2.5 hrs hike.Non-hikers' Program: You'll enjoy an excursion to Guimaraes. Known as the "Cradle of Portugal," Guimaraes is the birthplace of this country. The historical center is exceptionally well-preserved and serves as an authentic example of the evolution of a medieval settlement into a modern town.
Traditional folk entertainment will close out your last evening on board.
Day 8: Departure from Porto
Everyone will enjoy one last breakfast buffet on board before disembarking at 9:00 am.You can view all of our hiking and walking tours or look at our featured trips, specials, & news.
Map
Boats
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Accommodation for 7 nights
- All meals from dinner on the first evening to breakfast on the final day
- Onboard drinks (except for drinks from the specialty lists)
- Welcome cocktail
- Qualified guide
- All excursions & hikes as listed in the itinerary
- On-board multi-lingual host/hostess
- Gala dinner
- On-board entertainment (Flamenco, Fado, traditional folk)
- All port fees
What’s Not Included
- Transfers & travel to & from arrival/departure points
- Drinks from the special lists or drinks ordered during excursions or transfers
- All other services not specifically mentioned in the itinerary
- Personal expenses
- Travel Insurance
Dates & Pricing
Dates
April 15 & October 14, 2024
Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Pricing
April 15, 2024
Main deck Double/Twin, category A $ 3559 £ 1880 $ 3,220 € 2140 kr 328077 ₪ 8773 ¥ 365941 Mex$ 39668 NZ$ 3904 NOK 25562 zł 9359 S$ 3183 kr 25550 $ 2,352 Double/Twin, category B $ 3383 £ 1787 $ 3,060 € 2034 kr 311826 ₪ 8338 ¥ 347815 Mex$ 37703 NZ$ 3711 NOK 24296 zł 8895 S$ 3025 kr 24285 $ 2,236 Single supplement $ 1106 £ 584 $ 1,000 € 665 kr 101949 ₪ 2726 ¥ 113715 Mex$ 12327 NZ$ 1213 NOK 7943 zł 2908 S$ 989 kr 7940 $ 731 Middle deck Double/Twin, category A $ 3841 £ 2029 $ 3,475 € 2310 kr 354139 ₪ 9470 ¥ 395011 Mex$ 42819 NZ$ 4215 NOK 27593 zł 10102 S$ 3436 kr 27580 $ 2,539 Double/Twin, category B $ 3665 £ 1936 $ 3,316 € 2204 kr 337888 ₪ 9035 ¥ 376885 Mex$ 40854 NZ$ 4021 NOK 26327 zł 9639 S$ 3278 kr 26314 $ 2,423 Single supplement $ 1106 £ 584 $ 1,000 € 665 kr 101949 ₪ 2726 ¥ 113715 Mex$ 12327 NZ$ 1213 NOK 7943 zł 2908 S$ 989 kr 7940 $ 731 Upper deck Double/Twin, category A Full Double/Twin, category B $ 3732 £ 1971 $ 3,376 € 2244 kr 344021 ₪ 9199 ¥ 383725 Mex$ 41596 NZ$ 4094 NOK 26804 zł 9814 S$ 3338 kr 26792 $ 2,467 Single supplement $ 1106 £ 584 $ 1,000 € 665 kr 101949 ₪ 2726 ¥ 113715 Mex$ 12327 NZ$ 1213 NOK 7943 zł 2908 S$ 989 kr 7940 $ 731 * Single cabins only available in Category A
October 14, 2024
Main deck Double/Twin, category A $ 3559 £ 1880 $ 3,220 € 2140 kr 328077 ₪ 8773 ¥ 365941 Mex$ 39668 NZ$ 3904 NOK 25562 zł 9359 S$ 3183 kr 25550 $ 2,352 Double/Twin, category B Full Double/Twin, category C Full Single supplement $ 1106 £ 584 $ 1,000 € 665 kr 101949 ₪ 2726 ¥ 113715 Mex$ 12327 NZ$ 1213 NOK 7943 zł 2908 S$ 989 kr 7940 $ 731 Middle deck Double/Twin, category A $ 3841 £ 2029 $ 3,475 € 2310 kr 354139 ₪ 9470 ¥ 395011 Mex$ 42819 NZ$ 4215 NOK 27593 zł 10102 S$ 3436 kr 27580 $ 2,539 Double/Twin, category B $ 3665 £ 1936 $ 3,316 € 2204 kr 337888 ₪ 9035 ¥ 376885 Mex$ 40854 NZ$ 4021 NOK 26327 zł 9639 S$ 3278 kr 26314 $ 2,423 Double/Twin, category C Full Double, category C Full Single supplement $ 1106 £ 584 $ 1,000 € 665 kr 101949 ₪ 2726 ¥ 113715 Mex$ 12327 NZ$ 1213 NOK 7943 zł 2908 S$ 989 kr 7940 $ 731 Upper deck Double/Twin bed, category A $ 3732 £ 1971 $ 3,376 € 2244 kr 344021 ₪ 9199 ¥ 383725 Mex$ 41596 NZ$ 4094 NOK 26804 zł 9814 S$ 3338 kr 26792 $ 2,467 Double/Twin bed, category B $ 3908 £ 2064 $ 3,535 € 2350 kr 360271 ₪ 9634 ¥ 401851 Mex$ 43561 NZ$ 4287 NOK 28071 zł 10277 S$ 3495 kr 28058 $ 2,583 Single supplement $ 1106 £ 584 $ 1,000 € 665 kr 101949 ₪ 2726 ¥ 113715 Mex$ 12327 NZ$ 1213 NOK 7943 zł 2908 S$ 989 kr 7940 $ 731 * Single cabins only available in Category A
Extra Info
Skill Level — Easy
The hikes in the proposed itinerary last between 2 to 5 hours, with changes in altitude that range from 500 to 2800 ft (150 and 850 meters) depending on the destination. The lengths of time indicated for the hikes are a rough estimate only and do not include time taken for breaks. Participants should have a sufficient level of fitness to walk for this amount of time.
Airport Info
Fly in and out of Porto Airport (OPO).
Local Travel
The number of moorings on the Douro is limited, you are informed of the port of call in your final travel details. The center of Porto is located approximately 6 miles from the airport. You can easily get to the city center by metro (Line E, Purple) which runs every 20 or 30 minutes, depending on the time and day of the week. The STCP and Resende provide bus provides connections from the airport to various areas of the city. Taxis circulate 24/7 all throughout the city and are always available at taxi ranks. If you prefer, you can order a taxi by phone +351 225 353 359.
Climate
You will travel through a climatic region between mountains and sea, where the weather can be very changeable! It can often be quite cool in the mountains. Temperature fluctuations between morning and evening are the rule. You need clothing for hot and cool weather. You shouldn’t travel without a warm jacket/sweater and rain protection! Weather changes and bad weather periods are not uncommon in northern Portugal in spring and autumn.
Day of Rest
Non-hiking options are available alongside the hiking itineraries. Additionally, you are welcome to stay on the boat anytime you wish to rest.
Important to know
Documents
Before you travel, please check the passport and visa requirements of the country/countries you plan to visit. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have proper identification. For US citizens, the U.S. Passports & International Travel website is a good source of information. The Country Information tab provides details about passport validity, blank passport pages required, etc.
*Important note: Please check on the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) status as once implemented, this will be required to visit any of the 26 Schengen-member countries for tourism, business, medical, or transit. This is an additional check on security rather than a visa.Extra Stay
You will want to spend some extra time in Porto for sure! We advise Booking.com for researching and reserving your extra nights.
Tour Operator
This tour is run by Croisi Europe Cruises.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
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