Douro River Valley

A short hour's drive from Muxagata lies the picturesque Douro River Valley, featuring dramatic terraced vineyards along the steep riverbanks with whitewashed quintas (estates) perched on the hills. The entire wine growing region has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wine has been produced by traditional landholders in this region for some 2,000 years. Port wine, a wine of a quality defined and regulated since 1756 is produced here, along with vintage reds, whites, and a unique Portuguese "green wine" (Vinho Verde). A day trip to the area can include wine tastings at local quintas, a river cruise, or simply driving along the panoramic roads.

Another must see is the Côa Archeological Park in Vila Nova de Foz Côa, one of the world's largest open-air exhibits of Paleolithic art (rock drawings), also designated as a World Heritage site. These can be visited on tours and the carvings-drawings are especially striking at night.