Discovering Portugal's River of Wine

Savor a lesser-known corner of Europe on our Terra & Tu Cultural Journey through Portugal’s Douro Valley. Join Expedition Leader Daniel Blankenheim for a preview of this sun-soaked adventure, where we paddle scenic stretches of the Douro River, hike among terraced vineyards and olive groves and explore nature reserves tucked into rugged mountain landscapes. Along the way, stay at historic wine estates, meet local producers and experience the culture and traditions that have shaped this renowned wine region for centuries.

Our much-acclaimed journey through Portugal’s Douro Valley just got even better! Expedition Leader Daniel Blankenheim introduces our updated 2026 itinerary, which builds on our popular kayaking trip with added walks, an olive oil tasting, and a 4x4 excursion in Douro International Natural Park. Daniel shares firsthand insights into what makes this new itinerary extra special, from gentle paddling on the winding river to exploring villages and vineyards. Find out how our updates offer an even fuller experience of the culture, cuisine and nature of northeast Portugal.

In this installment of his Ghosts of the Woods series, Expedition Leader Andrea Serena introduces us to one of his favorite amphibians: the fire salamander. With their black skin and fiery orange or yellow markings, these distinctive denizens of European forests are at once elusive and hard to miss. Uncover their biology (they breathe through their skin!), behaviors (they shoot poison from their eyes!) and the vital roles they play in their woodland ecosystems.