In supplier order. Some entries may cover multiple days; optional experiences are described by the supplier.
Embark A-ROSA ALVA
Fly, or make your own way, to Porto, and board A-ROSA ALVA, your home-from-home for your cruise on the Golden River, at the quayside. As the ship does not sail until the morning, you'll have the chance to step ashore after you've settled in to your cabin, and before or after you’ve enjoyed your first buffet dinner on board.
Cruise to Pinhão
This morning, A-ROSA ALVA slips away to begin your journey up-river, passing through the gorges beyond the city and out into the countryside. This morning you’ll cruise past the dams at Crestuma/Lever and Carrapatelo, make a short call at Régua for those joining shore excursions, and meander on through ever more beautiful scenery to tiny, picture-book Pinhão, which stands on the Douro's north bank surrounded by vineyard-covered hills.
This evening enjoy a traditional Portuguese evening at a local vineyard. You'll be welcomed with traditional music and an aperitif, and a short vineyard tour followed by a traditional Portuguese meal with wine.
Cruise to Barca d'Alva
This morning, you will be treated to another included off-ship experience - the opportunity to enjoy port wine tasting at one of the finest Douro Valley estates, Quinta da Roeda.
In the afternoon A-ROSA ALVA will continue her cruise towards the Spanish border, where the Douro becomes the Spanish Duero, and you spend the night in Barca d'Alva, on the border of Spain.
Cruise to Vega de Terrón
This morning brings an opportunity to enjoy an included excursion to Salamanca, said to be the most beautiful city in Spain, to see its Baroque sandstone buildings and two sumptuous cathedrals. Later, re-join the A-ROSA ALVA in the sleepy port of Vega de Terrón. If it’s a clear night, don’t miss the opportunity to stargaze from the top deck this evening, taking advantage of the famously unpolluted skies.
Cruise back to Pinhão
Slipping away from Vega de Terron at breakfast time, you’ll cruise back downstream to arrive once more in idyllic Pinhão by early evening. Don’t miss the the town's lovely railway station and its exquisite tiles depicting the grape harvest, as you spend another night beneath Pinhão's rolling hills.
From Régua to Leverinho
We return to Regua this morning, and this time you'll have ample time to get a feel for the city. Take a walk to the popular viewing platforms São Leonardo da Galafura and São Salvador do Mundo and enjoy the panoramic views of the river landscape. Why not join an excursion to the Mateus Palace and Gardens. You might just recognise it from somewhere - the rosé wine label of the same name! This afternoon, enjoy scenic sailing along the Douro before arriving in Leverinho. This evening, you'll be fully immersed in authentic Portuguese culture with time at leisure to explore the town's waterfront and neighbouring Lixa.
Return to Porto
Good morning, Porto! Porto has many links to the UK, most particularly the production of port wine. Visit a wine cellar and appreciate this famous tipple – it’s a must here! The atmospheric centre, the Ribeira, is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. It’s a glorious maze of crumbling rainbow-coloured buildings presiding over winding cobbled streets. Discover the shining azulejo facades on church walls and town houses. Optional tours of Porto and Guimaraes are available if you’d like to explore with an expert.
Disembark in Porto
Bid "Adeus" to your ship and her crew, as you begin your journey home.