The Douro Valley is not only one of the oldest wine regions in the world, but also one of the most visually stunning landscapes in Europe – a true must-see for connoisseurs. This exclusive five-day trip to Portugal promises an array of unforgettable moments.
“Central Europe has the clocks, Southern Europe has the time,” says an old proverb. Time is a luxury – something wine travel expert Caroline Derler knows well. This is why her outstanding guided tours into Portugal’s wine world carry the sub-title ‘Luxury of Time’. And no one embodies this feeling of unhurried enjoyment better than the Douro Boys.
The four family wineries Quinta do Vallado, Niepoort, Quinta do Crasto and Quinta do Vale Meão joined forces in 2003 with the goal of showcasing the breathtaking beauty of their region and the unique stylistic character of the wines from northern Portugal.
One reason not to miss this trip: participants have the one-of-a-kind opportunity to have the wines, cellars and estates of the Douro Boys personally presented to them. Even the star winemakers themselves are taking the “luxury of time” to host this exceptional tour.
Over five days, from 16 to 20 September 2026, guests can expect special experiences that will stay with them for a lifetime. A small preview:
The tour kicks off on Wednesday with a get-together at the Niepoort Port wine cellar in Gaia, including a tasting and lunch. Thursday features an off-road tour through the vineyards with an exclusive wine tasting. After a scenic train ride through the magnificent Douro Valley to Quinta do Vallado, the day concludes with a dinner set in the middle of an orange grove. Quinta do Crasto will host a tasting of its cult wines and lunch on its terrace on Friday, which offers the perfect backdrop with its sensational views of the Douro River.
“A boat trip on the Douro is a must, as is fine dining with star chef Rui Paula. We’ll also taste Portugal’s finest wines and Ports, accompanied by regional delicacies and surrounded by stunning scenery. Everyone knows the ‘Dolce Vita’ in Italy – the Portuguese ‘a boa vida’ is unique and truly special.”
The number of participants is limited to 12, ensuring personal exchange and inspiring encounters.
Naturally, this exclusive trip to the Douro Boys includes only the finest accommodation. The boutique wine hotel Casa do Rio, located in the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Foz Côa Valley, lies in an idyllic spot between vineyards and the Douro River. In the infinity pool, surrounded by this breathtaking panorama, guests can slow down and unwind from the rigors of everyday life.
After a night at Casa do Rio, the journey continues with three nights at Quinta do Vallado. In Régua, guests stay amid the vineyards in a historic 18th-century manor house. Award-winning design, a panoramic pool and exceptional wines combine to create a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Guests who cannot join in spring have no need to worry – from 16 to 20 September 2026, Caroline Derler is offering a second date for her ‘Luxury of Time’ tour with the Douro Boys. With a bit of luck, participants will even get hands-on (or rather feet-on) winemaking experience by having the opportunity to stomp grapes themselves.
“In the Douro Valley, visitors find inner peace and unique moments of indulgence. Anyone who discovers this wine region and its incomparable charm will embrace the Portuguese way of life and return home enriched by extraordinary experiences.”
Dates: 16 – 20 September 2026
Location: Douro Valley, Portugal
Total price: €4,200 (double room) / €4,900 (single room)
Do great minds think alike? Absolutely – especially when passionate and talented winegrowers are involved. Since 2003, four wine producers from the Douro Valley have been working together on one common goal: supplementing their famous Port wines with top-quality reds and whites, to show the world the incredible potential of this special valley.
Douro Boys
Douro Valley
Portugal
