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  • Meredith Peters

Régua, Portugal - Gateway to the Alto Douro

The town of Régua is a quaint town in the mountainous northern region of the beautiful country of Portugal. Régua is often referred to as the gateway to the Alto (upper) Douro Valley, a region famous for its port wine production. There is a rich history throughout this city and it makes for a great place to take just a day trip from one of the other major cities in Portugal or as main destination to spend several days. There is plenty to do, see, learn, and eat in Régua, and you will undoubtedly fall in love.

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Régua has a splendid culture that dates back hundreds of years. There is a stunning valley with the Douro River that runs right through Régua, and the climate here is typically in a very comfortable and mild range. Terraces of vineyards line the Douro River that are world-renowned for the award-winning wines they produce. Port wine, a sweet red wine, has been a considerable factor in the economic growth of Regua for hundreds of years. If you find yourself in Régua, you will surely want to take time to learn and taste this classic Régua beverage.

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Traditional Foods

One thing you certainly do not have an issue within Régua is finding local cuisine to enjoy. Broa de milho is a style of bread made out of corn that you will find paired with various stews all throughout Portugal. Pastel de Chaves is another very popular and traditional local dish consisting of a delicious flaky puff pastry that is filled with minced veal and onions. Pastel de Chaves goes way back to the 1800s and is a favorite among all who try it. Feijoada à transmontana is another traditional dish in Régua that is a comforting casserole-like dish consisting of various pork and beans.

Experiences

While in Régua, you will, without a doubt, want to take time to visit a port wine vineyard so that you can learn all about this one-of-a-kind drink and have the opportunity to taste the different variations available. Since Régua is such a scenic town with so much surrounding beauty and nature, there is always an outdoor activity available at your disposal. The Douro River is the perfect place to take out the kayak or paddleboard for a relaxing day under the warm Portugal sun. Head out on one of the numerous hiking trails surrounding Régua, such as Serra do Marão, to get your fill of the phenomenal countryside.

If you crave a quiet and scenic getaway, Régua is genuinely an ideal location for travelers. Visitors are met with rolling mountains in the countryside, the calm Douro River, the friendliest of locals, and delectable local cuisine. It is entirely doable to make a trip here for the day from one of the surrounding larger cities in Portugal, such as Porto or Lisbon. The town of Régua is positively stunning and the perfect place to get some much-needed peace and quiet. Régua is a beautiful haven in the spectacular country of Portugal and will be sure to capture your heart.


Are you to start planning your trip to Portugal? How about exploring the town of the Douro on a luxury river cruise? Contact us to start planning today!

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