Compare The Best of the Azores by Titan Travel vs Cycling in the Douro Valley by Exodus Travels
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4.5 | Great
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 15 days | 7 days |
| Price From | $ 3,757 | $ 2,765 |
| Price Per Day | $ 250 | $ 395 |
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| Trip Style | Group tour | Small group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Standard |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | No |
| Activities | N/A |
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| Meals Included | N/A | A typical hotel breakfast consists of: cake, toast/bread with jam,or honey, cheese and ham, served with coffee, tea, milk, orange juice, fruit, cake and yoghurt. The Douro region is well-known for an endless number of meat dishes, which include the famous roasted baby goat with rice and potatoes, wild boar stew, posta mirandesa (veal steak), cozido à portuguesa (boiled meat, sausages and cabbages), partridge on a skewer, arroz de cabidela (chicken or rabbit with rice) and feijoada à trasmontana (bean stew). The region’s fish is caught in the Douro river and its tributaries, and is served fried or marinated. The codfish is also a famous alternative to meat dishes. The typical desserts include traditional pastries such as the peixinhos de chila or the biscoito da Teixeira are famous in the region. The region is also known for the delicious pão-de-ló (sponge cake) and the bolo-rei (fruit cake), manly eaten during local celebrations. The rice pudding and the aletria (vermicelli with cinnamon) are also some of the region’s specialties. Most of the time, meals in Portugal are served with bread. If you visit the Douro region, you must try the traditional breads made with meat or olive oil. Normal bread can be savoured with regional honey or home-made jams. Regional cheeses and smoked sausages can also be eaten at any time of the day, either by themselves or with a piece of bread. There is also a wide variety of fruit in the region, which are picked in different seasons. Cherries, almonds and apples are the most abundant fruits. Roasted chestnuts, nuts, diospyros kaki (persimmon) and tangerines are typical of the colder months. Olives and grapes are the main fruits in the region, even though they are used more to make olive oil and wine than for direct consumption.Olive oil is used in most dishes, whether to cook the dish or as seasoning. Every dish is seasoned with salt, or it can be replaced by herbs, which are plentiful in the region. Rosemary, parsley and bay leaves are some of the most commonly used herbs, mainly to cook meat. There is nothing better than starting a meal by drinking a glass of Port wine to open your appetite. The Favaios wine is also served as an aperitif, while the Douro wines are served with the main course. The liqueurs produced in the region, which are the result of the mixture of spirits and fruits, such as the arbutus, blackberries or cherries, are served as digestifs, replacing the international scotch. For those who do not appreciate alcoholic beverages, fruit juices and herbal teas are always a treat, especially because these juices and teas are made with fresh and crystalline water from the several springs in the Douro region. |
| Description | The nine treasured Atlantic Ocean islands of the Azores, created by volcanic activity along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, are home to some of the most stunning landscapes and naturally beautiful vistas. Discover these islands on this exciting new holiday, visiting the most cherished areas of these Portuguese-owned lands. We begin by spending time in ‘The Green Island’, São Miguel, renowned for its lush green landscapes and thermal hot springs. Next we discover the islands of Faial and Terceira, admiring the wondrous views, visiting beautiful vineyards and exploring the fascinating monuments and attractions such as the Fortress of St John the Baptist and the enchanting old fishing port of Porto Judeu. To further enhance this comprehensive itinerary, free days are included for optional activities that include searching for the cetaceans that frequent the surrounding ocean. |
This cycling holiday in the Douro will acquaint you with fascinating and magical surroundings, delicious cuisine and some of the world's finest wines (including, of course Port Wine, for which the region is famous). The ride begins in Castelo Rodrigo, a medieval village close to where Portugal borders Spain, and home to an ancient castle and arched palace gates. Your cycling heads across the highland plain to the Spanish border and on through historical villages to the River Douro. You'll cycle through uniquely terraced vineyards and take in the typical towns and villages of the region, including Peso da Regua, where many of the famous Port wine estates are located. The accommodation is all chosen with the greatest care and you'll stay in different types, from delightful rural houses to 4 star hotels.An indulgent week of cycling, wine & delightful cuisine |
Day 1 London - Ponta Delgada, São Miguel
Titan’s VIP door-to-door travel service collects you from home, for your journey to London Gatwick or Heathrow Airport for a direct, scheduled Azores Airlines flight to Ponta Delgada or TAP Portugal flight via Lisbon. Upon arrival on the island of São Miguel, we transfer to the Azoris Royal Garden Hotel (4T).
Day 2 Furnas Valley - Ribeira Grande
Today we embark on an exciting full-day tour to explore the Furnas Valley, set within a 6km volcanic crater. Our first stop is Terra Nostra Garden with time to bathe in the thermal pool, visit the hot springs and sample some of the many natural mineral waters. After a delicious lunch, uniquely cooked for many hours underground using the steam of the hot springs, we continue to the north shore to view the Furnas Valley - the village, lake and lush vegetation - from the top of the crater. After tea at the oldest tea factory in Europe, the town of Ribeira Grande is our final destination, where some lovely examples of 18-19th century island architecture await.
Day 3 Ponta Delgada
Enjoy a day at leisure today, relaxing in the hotel or exploring the surrounding area. You may wish to join an optional excursion and there are two to choose from today. On the first you will embark on a scenic boat journey in search of magnificent whales, seeing them swim in the wild is an unforgettable experience. Or, travel to Fenais da Luz, where you will be treated to a taste of some of the local wines made from the region’s lush green vineyards.
Day 4 Ponta Delgada - Horta, Faial
We transfer to the airport for a flight to the island of Faial and upon arrival we check in at Azoris Faial Garden Hotel (4T) in Horta, where we stay for the next four nights, enjoying dinner here each evening.
Day 5 South Coast - Capelinhos
From the hotel this morning we drive along the south coast to Varadouro, where the sea has carved out a natural pool within the rocks. We begin a scenic coastal walk towards Capelinhos, a recently-formed landscape created by a volcanic eruption which occurred in the ocean here between 1957 and 1958. At Porto do Comprido, visit the fascinating Interpretation Centre to learn of the evolution of the volcano, as well as enjoying a delicious lunch. We continue to the protected volcanic crater of Caldeira, before journeying back to Horta, passing the place of settlement for the first Flemish to arrive on the island - Flamengos - and stopping for a view over the harbour of Horta, a popular stopping place for the worldwide yachting community.
Day 6 Horta
Enjoy a day at leisure where you can freely explore your surroundings or simply relax in our comfortable hotel.
Day 7 Pico Island
Today we discover Faial’s wonderful neighbouring island, Pico, travelling by ferry to the second largest island of the Azores which hosts the highest reaching mountain (2,351m) in the whole of Portugal. An abundance of typical vineyards allow time for a short walk, before driving along the south of the island to discover the charming church in Candelaria and the old whaling village of Lajes - inspiration for Herman Melville’s ‘Moby Dick’. Refreshed after a lunch stop we head north, passing Lagoa do Capitão to make a stop at São Roque’s former whale-processing factory that is now a museum. Our sightseeing adventure includes a final scenic journey back to Madalena to meet the return ferry back to Horta, however we make one quick stop at Lajido winery.
Day 8 Horta - Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira
We transfer to the airport for a flight to the island of Terceira and the town of Angra do Heroísmo. We spend the next four nights at the Hotel do Caracol (4T) and there will be time to settle in before enjoying dinner.
Day 9 Terceira Island Tour
Discover beautiful Terceira, visiting the region’s most scenic spots including Pico das Cruzinhas - on the volcanic cinder cone known as Monte Brasil - where we view the city of Angra do Heroísmo; the old fishing port of Porto Judeu, stopping at a local snack bar to capture picturesque views of the Cabras Islet, a collection of small rock formations from a volcanic eruption; and the forest reserve area of Lagoa das Patas. On the scenic journey we also see outstanding architecture including the Fortress of St John the Baptist and the fascinating ancient prisons found here; the monument of the Festa Brava - a statue of three enormous bulls; Praia da Vitoria’s historical centre; and the ‘Ramo Grande’ zone, with many wealthy farmers’ houses. As well as architecture and scenic spots this exciting tour calls at Europe’s main point for sighting Palearctic birds and the parish of Biscoitos Winery and Wine Museum, where we explore the museum and taste some of the best wines and local cheeses. Lunch is included at a local restaurant in Praia da Vitoria.
Days 10-11 Terceira
With two days at leisure you can choose to explore Terceira, relax at the hotel or choose an optional excursion. On day 10, choose a half-day whale watching trip with the aim to view these beautiful creatures swimming in the stunning deep-blue waters. On day 11, an optional excursion is available to explore the Islets of Goats - fascinating volcanic islets located on the picturesque southeast coast.
Day 12 Angra do Heroismo - Ponta Delgada, São Miguel
After breakfast we transfer to the airport for our flight back to São Miguel Island and Ponta Delgada, where we return to the Azoris Royal Garden Hotel (4T).
Day 13 Ponta Delgada
You have a choice of three impressive optional excursions today. On the first, spend half the day visiting volcanic caves - Gruta do Carvao and a pineapple plantation to see the growing process of this delicious fruit. The second is also a half-day city tour of Ponta Delgada, the bustling capital of The Azores, with fascinating history, immense green forested landscapes and beautiful architecture of white-washed houses and buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th century. Or, join a full-day excursion to the island’s centre and two of its three volcanic massifs - Sete Cidades and Lagoa Fogo. While here you can roam this legendary land and learn all of the geological history that has created this wonderfully beautiful place.
Day 14 Ponta Delgada
Enjoy a morning at leisure in São Miguel, or join one of the two half day optional excursions on offer - either an unforgettable swim with dolphins or a thrilling Jeep adventure to Sete Cidades. In the afternoon, we enjoy a delicious farewell dinner at Quinta Pico da Cruz and a fascinating display of Lusitano horses.
Day 15 Ponta Delgada - London
We transfer to the airport for a direct, scheduled Azores Airlines flight to London Gatwick Airport or TAP Portugal flight to London Heathrow Airport via Lisbon. On arrival you will be met and guided to your Titan vehicle, for the journey home.
Day 1 Start Porto airport; transfer approx. 3 hours to Castelo Rodrigo, not far from the Spanish border
Pick up a shared transfer from Porto airport (included at 14:20) to the easternmost point of your holiday; Castelo Rodrigo. Enjoy the beautiful landscape and scenery that unfolds along the way, entering the fascinating landscape of the Douro River Canyon and its 200 metre high cliffs. The historical village of Castelo Rodrigo deserves an exploratory walk, with its cobbled streets, palace ruins, old walls and ogival arched gates, 16th century pillory and medieval church. Your hotel is located in Castelo Rodrigo with great views over the surrounding plains, mountains and all the way to the border with Spain.
Day 2 Cycle across high plains to Almeida and Escarigo on the Spanish border
The first day of cycling takes you across high plains to the historical village of Almeida, one of the most important strongholds in Portugal's history. Although it had been occupied by humans since the Palaeolithic era, it was only during the Arabic period that the name of the village came about - Al Meda meaning "the table". There is an ancient tale that a sumptuous table embedded with precious stones once stood in this spot. However, Almeida's military importance was yet to come...taken and re-taken many times during battles between the Portuguese and the Castilians, in 1296 a new castle was built by the Portuguese, then in 1640 an enormous star-shaped fortress was built around the town to defend against Spanish and French attacks. Eventually falling to Napoleon's armies it was later used by the Portuguese as a political prison. Also visit the village of Vilar Torpim, with it's chapel and manor house, and Escarigo, right on the Spanish border. Return to Castelo Rodrigo for your overnight.
Day 3 Cycle to Aldeia do Juízo along backroads with beautiful landscapes
At the beginning of the day, cycle around the Serra da Marofa mountain range. Experience stunning views over the Iberian Plateau and from the top you can also see the Douro river system (which, beyond this river, includes Côa and Águeda rivers), to the East. Continue on to Aldeia do Juizo, a rural village with 2 chapels, several wineries and a community oven that is surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and almond orchards. On the banks of the river, there are vegetable-gardens, where the locals produce a wide variety of agricultural products. Stay in a delightful village house, part of a rural tourism complex of restored houses, all with private bathroom facilities.
Day 4 Cycle through the historical villages of Marialva, Meda and on to Penedono
On the ride today you cycle through two historical villages, Marialva and Meda before your approach to Penedono, with views of its almost hexagon castle, perched on an outcrop. After the first 10 km you will be able to see the Castle of Marialva. When you reach the village, explore the streets, lined with buildings that have stood the test of time and which lead to the citadel surrounded by ancient walls. The next highlight is Meda - in medieval times this village was essentially a border town and the setting for hard-fought skirmishes between Christians and Muslims. The watchtower was one of the most important strategic defence points in the region and combined with the castles of Marialva and Longroiva. Today the village is quiet and the main activity is farming and wine-making. Continue on to Penedono and its medieval castle, a unique example of military architecture that dominates the surrounding countryside.
Day 5 Ride to the UNESCO World Heritage listed vineyards of the Douro Valley
The Alto Douro winemaking region is most famous for its Port wine, but the region also produces world-famous wines from the Touriga grape. The terraced vineyards are so typical of the region that they are listed a UNESCO World Heritage site and are a delight to behold. The neatly-kept wine estates rise proudly amidst the vineyards, their names clearly visible to everyone who passes. The last stop is at the town of Peso da Regua. The town's name originated from the name of a Roman house that once stood here - the 'Villa Reguela'. Its great development only began however after 1756 with the creation of the Real Companhia Geral da Agricultura das Vinhas do Alto Douro (Royal Company of Vine-Growers from the Alto Douro Region), which set up the world's first-ever demarcated region for wine production.
Day 6 Peso da Regua Loop cycling along the Douro River
Today you cycle to Lamego, a picturesque town that seamlessly blends history, natural beauty and cultural charm. This enchanting city boasts a rich historical heritage that dates back to Roman times. Its well-preserved historic centre, characterised by narrow cobbled streets and centuries-old churches, offers a glimpse into Portugal's past. The city is graced by the imposing Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, a Baroque masterpiece perched on a hill and accessed by a grand staircase decorated with intricate azulejos (tiles). Lamego is also renowned for its role in the production of Portugal's famous wines, particularly Port. We recommend you have lunch in Lamego before heading back towards Peso da Regua, stopping on the way at Quinta da Pacheca for a wine tasting.
Day 7 Transfer back to the airport, or choose to spend extra time in the cosmopolitan city of Porto
This morning you check out from your hotel and are transferred back to Porto at 10am; here you can choose to spend some time in this cosmopolitan city, or go straight back to the airport for your flight home. Extra nights in Porto can be requested at the time of booking.
