Portugal Food & Wine Tour
A privately hosted journey through Porto, Douro Valley, Alentejo and Lisbon with Valeska & Fernando
DATES: APRIL 7 - 16, 2027
ONE UNIQUE EDITION!
Portugal: A Milestone Edition Hosted Personally by Valeska & Fernando
This landmark edition represents the very heart of why we founded The Valfers. This is not an itinerary compiled from a distance; it is a deeply personal map of our world, drawing entirely from the private cellars, family estates, and close friendships we have spent over a decade cultivating on the ground.
When you join our premier Portugal Food & Wine Tour, you are not simply booking a vacation—you are stepping directly into our inner circle.
Hosted entirely by us, this journey offers an unscripted look behind the scenes of Portuguese gastronomy. Every table we gather around and every host who welcomes us is part of a narrative we have built together through years of shared bottles and deep trust.
Every single vintage poured and dish served reflects our own uncompromising personal selection. We will personally guide you onto the dramatic, terraced slopes of the Douro Valley and into the candlelit cellars of Alentejo, sharing rare, off-menu moments alongside the legendary winemakers and generational creators who have opened their homes to us.
Because this special edition is hosted and led directly by us to protect the absolute intimacy of the experience, space is strictly limited. This is a singular, uncompromising immersion into our private Portugal, reserved for a selective circle of 20 guests who know that true luxury cannot be replicated—it can only be lived.
At a Glance
Day 1
Porto, arrival
Day 2
Porto - v de GAIA - MATOSINHOS - PORTO
Day 3
Porto - Douro Valley - ílhavo
Day 4
ílhavo - Costa Alegre - Aveiro - Ílhavo
Day 5
Ílhavo - Óbidos - Gradil - Évora
Day 6
Évora - Estremoz - Évora
Day 7
Évora
Day 8
Évora - Lisbon
Day 9
Lisbon - Sintra - Guincho - Lisbon
Day 10
Lisbon, end of journey
itinerary
Over ten immersive days, we invite you to experience Portugal through our personal lens. This curated journey bypasses the expected, offering private access to historic cellars, generational estates, and intimate culinary encounters that reveal the true Mediterranean soul.
DAY 1 | Porto
PORTO
Welcome to Porto! Portugal’s second city has everything you want in a luxury travel experience, balancing its rich history with vibrant modernity. Walk the cobblestone streets leading to the Porto Cathedral, Palácio da Bolsa and the extraordinary Church of São Francisco before the first serious collation.
Soothing and sublime, rich and relaxed, and best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, aptly describes both Porto’s cuisine and its eponymous wine. Steeped in tradition and made with care, Porto’s cuisine combines the old with the new, marries vintage preparations with modern touches and adjoins tastes of the past with nods to the present. Our welcome dinner combines the two worlds.
- Dinner
- Tívoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel 5*
DAY 2 | Porto - V. de Gaia - Matosinhos - Porto
VILANOVA DE GAIA
Nobody can leave Porto without crossing “to the other side”, to Vilanova de Gaia, where major port producers have their warehouses. You’ll be standing where barrels of wine and port have been loaded and unloaded for hundreds of years. You’ll get to know about the different types of port (tawny, white, crusted, vintage), and the slow development of the wine inside the porous oak barrels.
As you visit Port cellars from centuries past, traverse the long-trodden paths of winemakers now gone, and taste wines likely bottled before you were born, you feel a rebirth — you will have lived, breathed and drank the living history of the Douro.
SEAFOOD
After the pot wine tasting follow the smell of barbecue at the harbor district of Matosinhos in northern part of Porto, where restaurants propose superb fresh daily caught fishes. The town’s proximity to the sea and fishing tradition has made it a top destination for seafood lovers.
- Breakfast, lunch
- Tívoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel 5*
DAY 3 | Porto - Douro Valley - Ílhavo
DOURO VALLEY
Let’s leave to the magical Douro Valley, home of Portugal’s most famous wine region.
To experience the Douro Valley is to experience the river Douro, a slice of life that flows through Castile and León in Spain and into Portugal, running through the famous valley, where all facets of life — commerce and community, soul and spirit — merge with the majestic waters, towering canyons, whitewashed quintas and granite bluffs above, before rushing forward into Vila Nova de Gaia and Porto, where she coalesces with the Atlantic.
Be ready for vertiginous rides and a warm welcome to one of the most famed quintas, enjoy wine tastings and a charming, bowered vineyard lunch. There’s 2,000 years of winemaking history in the Douro! After lunch we’ll drive to Aveiro, the Portuguese Venice.
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Montebelo Vista Alegre Hotel & Spa, 5*
DAY 4 | Ílhavo - Costa Nova - Aveiro - Ílhavo
Aveiro: Maritime Heritage & The Salt Flats
Wandering around the town of Aveiro gives us a nostalgic feeling that we are in Venice, but in smaller dimension. Channels, bridges, colorful houses and an intense university life set the pace. The Aveiro estuary occupies an enormous 47-kilometer marshy area, where the eel and salt flats proliferate. Traditionally the moliceiros, flat-bottomed boats and bow curved, painted with scenes of the fishermen’s life who used to collect seaweed from the bottom of the channel to use as fertilizer in the fields. And don’t forget to try the ovos moles, sweet egg yolks with sugar and water created by the nuns of the Convent of Jesus. They are shaped imitating marine elements, such as fishes or shells, and wrapped in wafers.
VISTA ALEGRE
Montebelo Vista Alegre Hotel where we stay was built to boost the historical heritage of Vista Alegre. Fábrica da Vista Alegre which began its business activity in 1824, in buildings close to the Chapel Nossa Senhora da Penha de França (1699),
has since then undergone successive renovation and expansion works. The entrance bears the name Vista Alegre – Fábrica de Porcelana in azulejos, as well as the establishment year and the 100th anniversary date. You will enjoy a lovely guided-tour of the museum and painting room, and then free time to explore the charming and seducing shops of Vista Alegre and your free evening.
- Breakfast, lunch
- Montebelo Vista Alegre Hotel & Spa, 5*
DAY 5 | Ílhavo - Óbidos - Grâdil - Évora
ÓBIDOS
Next will be Óbidos. Located on the western central coast of Portugal, Óbidos is an ancient fortified city, a perfect medieval silhouette with a fortified castle where the Literary Man hotel is home to about 50,000 books. Óbidos is one of the most spectacular towns from the North of Portugal and became the nineteenth UNESCO City of Literature in December 2015. Enjoy some free time in this charming town before we meet to reach our next historical stop for another sublime food and wine experience in a family run business whose 4th generation will join us.
ÉVORA
After lunch we’ll reach Évora, that shows a stunning combination of Roman, Gothic and Baroque architecture for which it has been designated a Unesco World Heritage Site. You’ll find a Roman temple from the first century, a medieval convent and superb sixteenth-century facades lining up side by side in its narrow, cobbled streets.
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Hotel Convento do Espinheiro, 5*
DAY 6 | Évora - Estremoz - Évora
ÉVORA
A curated exploration of Évora’s architectural legacy, shielded by its 14th-century walls. “Queen of the High Alentejo” and one of Portugal’s best preserved medieval cities, Évora is ideal for immersing yourself in the past. Sheltered by its 14th century walls, its narrow streets lead to amazing architectural works: medieval cathedrals and cloisters, Roman ruins like those of its temple, a picturesque square and a surprising church covered with human bones and a Neolithic site. Évora is also a lively university city.
WINES FROM ALENTEJO
The fascinating Alentejo unfolds a land finely aged. You’ll travel among medieval whitewashed villages, rolling hills, mountain forts, olive groves and a constellation of vineyards in the land of largest producer of cork in the world. The local food is neither peasant nor sophisticated, it is rustic and rich; Alentejo is known as Portugal’s gastronomic soul. And the Herdades (wineries) are part of its culture and identity and are definitely a must visit on an Alentejo journey. Estremoz will cross our path towards an unforgettable evening.
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Hotel Convento do Espinheiro, 5*
DAY 7 | Évora
COZINHA ALENTEJANA IN A TRADITIONAL FARM
This sun-baked land also reveals some of the the best Portuguese cuisine, the so-called cozinha alentejana.
Besides the good wines, the cuisine is rich and varied, with Roman and Arab influences. The bread serves as a base for all regional gastronomy. Recipes that dominate are based on pork and lamb meats, river fish and the sea. Embark today on a true gastronomic journey to discover typical Alentejo food, the local extra virgin olive oil and some more wines! The regional dishes are many, passed down from generation to generation, perfected, celebrated.
We propose a voyage through time and the flavors of Alentejo at a farm estate dating back 1338 that has been totally restored and turned into an oasis of peace. Take this opportunity to activate your senses on a private culinary immersion alongside a local chef, exploring the ancestral techniques of the Alentejo region to learn how to make some of the most popular recipes while you sip some nice rosé or admire the vastness of the landscape dotted with cork oaks and olive trees.
Free evening to explore some local resturant in Évora or unwind at the hotel.
- Breakfast, lunch
- Hotel Convento do Espinheiro, 5*
DAY 8 | Évora - Lisbon
LISBON
Lisbon ports have seen Vasco de Gama embark to reach India, Fernão Gomes launch to explore the African coast and Columbus dock en route to Barcelona with word of his discovery of the Americas. You can’t describe Lisbon’s present without mentioning her past. Home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Jerónimos Monastery, Sintra and Belém Tower the city is seductive.
What about Lisbon’s cuisine? The Atlantic plays perhaps the most dominant role in Lisboan cuisine — the region boasts over 365 original recipes for cod alone — and you’d be hard pressed to bypass the aroma of grilled sardines in the small, antiquated quarters of Bairro Alto and Alfama during the Popular Saint’s Festival in June. But Lisbon’s culinary profile is anything but staid. Whether you choose haute cuisine or café fare, Lisbon’s penchant for perpetual reinvention ensures you the utmost in gastronomic acquaintance and inspiration.
- Breakfast, lunch
- Hotel Tivoli Liberdade 5*
DAY 9 | Lisbon - Sintra - Guincho - Lisbon
SINTRA
From Lisbon, drive northwards towards the mountains and reach Serra de Sintra. For romantics the world over, the former royal residence of the Kings of Portugal, Sintra – UNESCO Heritage Site – conjures up fantasies of fairy-tale castles and noble mansions, mystic forests and exotic gardens laced with waterfalls and mossy walls, lofty peaks lost in mist that suddenly dissolves to reveal views of grand estates, vineyards, wildflowers and the ocean.
THE END OF THE WORLD
Then let’s head west out of Sintra a few miles down to Cabo de Roca, this wild and rocky cape being Europe’s westernmost point. And a few miles away, at Guincho beach, where well-toned surfers and windsurfers challenge the waves, the numerous seafood restaurants -where the produce is everything – are ready to welcome eager visitors.
There couldn’tbe a better spot for our farewell meal.
- Breakfast, lunch
- Hotel Tivoli Liberdade 5*
DAY 10 | Lisbon
END OF JOURNEY
Following breakfast, private transfer to Lisbon airport at your appointed time or continue your journey if you decided to extend your trip.
- Breakfast
Dates & Prices
2027
DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
AVAILABLE SPOTS
DATES
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
AVAILABLE SPOTS
INCLUDED:
- 9-Night accommodation on bed and breakfast basis
- 8 lunches and 4 dinners
- Private deluxe transportation throughout
- Private airport transfers in and out from Porto and Lisbon
- Two tour leaders throughout
- Limited to 20 guests
NOT INCLUDED:
- International flight
- Travel insurance (see options upon application)
- Personal purchases and expenses
- Pre-and post-trip accommodations and associated expenses
PRICE:
- Rates above are in Euros per person, on double occupancy basis
BOOKING DEPOSIT:
- At the time of reservation: 25% of journey cost per person
- 90 days before departure: Balance due
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
- Payment method: Bank transfer or major credit cards are accepted (Visa, American Express, Mastercard).
Optional Tours Suggested
The experts
VALESKA IDARRAGA
Valeska brings a rich gastronomic heritage, inherited from her French father’s love of culinary culture and her Basque grandmother, a well-regarded chef of her time. After studying Economics and Journalism in Barcelona, she moved to Switzerland to pursue hotel management, working at some of the most prestigious hotels in the industry. Fluent in five languages, Valeska is a Certified Sherry Wine Cellar Advanced Expert and holds a WSET Level 3 certification with merit. As co-founder of Paladar y Tomar in 2014, she serves as Marketing Manager, overseeing client relationships and operations at The Valfers. With her unique combination of cultural insight, business acumen, and wine expertise, Valeska crafts unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
FERNANDO PAREDES
Fernando is the CEO, financial director, and lead wine consultant at Paladar y Tomar and The Valfers. A Barcelona native with a background in economics and business management, he transitioned from a corporate career to the world of luxury travel, food, and wine. With extensive experience as General Manager of a bespoke travel company, Fernando excels in strategic planning, operations, and financial oversight. His expertise in wine is equally impressive—he is a Certified Sherry Wine Cellar Advanced Expert, holds a WSET Level 3 certification with merit, and advises on wine programs and cellar selections. His deep connections in the wine and hospitality industries allow The Valfers to offer unparalleled insider experiences.
The Elements of an Unedited Portugal
A glimpse into the textures, aromas, and private encounters that define our time together. This is the Portugal we know, reserved entirely for our inner circle.
FOOD WITH SOUL
FOOD WITH SOUL
Expect rustic home-style cooking and flavors very often seasoned with garlic, wine and chilli pepper sauce (called piri-piri), Portuguese recipes burst with character and aroma. With traditional hearty stews and bread as a religion, olive oil, artisanal cheeses and yummy tiny custard tarts (pastéis de nata). All made with the heart.
THE SILENCE OF THE DOURO
DOURO VALLEY
The river moves between mountains whose slopes are stepped terraces built by men to plant vines. It gives the feeling of being in front of huge sculptures that rest on the edge of a peaceful river.
ANCESTRAL ESTATES
ALENTEJO
At the “breadbasket of Portugal” gastronomy is all about quality. Rustic fare, prepared in a way that allows the ingredients to shine unencumbered, dominates the region. And Alentejan wine has rich, bold flavors and full bodies that linger on the palate.
ARCHITECTURAL LEGACY
UNESCO HERITAGE
Portugal is home to 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and we will cover quite a few: Porto, Sintra, Lisbon, Évora, and Douro Valley.
PORT WINE: LIQUID HISTORY
PORT WINE
Port wine can leave long-lasting memories of the sumptuous flavors of a well-aged vintage port, and, even more so, the delicate, subtle pleasures of a 20-year-old tawny. There is some kind of mystique around port that deserves to be shared.
THE PULSE OF LISBON
LISBON, THE 7 HILLS
Lisbon is a destination in itself. Today you find Lisbon's meandering, centuries-old cobbled streets, romantic hilltop castles and Romantic-era palaces intermingled with culturally relevant, boisterous street art, modernist architecture and Michelin-starred restaurants.
THE ATLANTIC BOUNTY
COD FISH (BACALHAU)
The Portuguese coast dictates the soul of its kitchens. We explore bacalhau—the nation’s revered cod—not as a simple staple, but as an elevated culinary art. Taste the complex flavors of the Atlantic, thoughtfully prepared by master chefs and perfectly paired with crisp, coastal wines.
100% IMMERSIVE
PRIVATE ACCESS
Our deep-rooted relationships grant you entry into spaces rarely seen by outsiders. Step beyond the polished tourist facade and into the private dining rooms, ancestral vineyards, and quiet cellars of our closest friends. This is an invitation to experience the true pulse of Portugal exactly as we do—unedited, intimate, and profoundly transformative.
Hand-picked Accommodations
The Valfers benefit from over 20-year of expertise, curating every hotel in search of the most unique nature of each location. This allows us to cater for every different type of personality and taste and have selected for this occasion singular hotels with immense value that enhance every moment. Our stories start from the moment you arrive.
PORTO
Tívoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel, 5*
Perched on the serene banks of the Douro, the new Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel offers a peaceful retreat, far from the bustle of Porto’s city center. Inspired by Portugal’s oldest Port wine house, this elegant escape blends heritage with contemporary luxury. Sophisticated rooms boast breathtaking river views, while the rooftop bar is the perfect spot to toast the sunset in tranquility. Indulge in world-class dining, unwind in the spa, or explore the charm of Vila Nova de Gaia at your own pace. Here, you’ll experience Porto’s magic in refined serenity.
ÍLHAVO
Montebelo Vista Alegre, 5*
Montebelo Vista Alegre Ílhavo Hotel was born from the desire to enhance and promote the universal value of the assets of Vista Alegre company and its multiple manifestations: industrial, social, cultural, technological, artistic and human. Located just 8 kilometers from the sea and 8 km from the center of Aveiro, the “Portuguese Venice”, this new 5 stars unit 5 is part of a project to restore all the factory space, which includes the Palace, the Chapel of Our Lady of Penha de France (National Monument), the Workers’ District, the Theatre Museum and in a context that includes landscaped Fountain of Carrapichel and Ria de Aveiro.
ÉVORA
Convento do Espinheiro Hotel & Spa, 5*
In a former 15th century convent, considered a national monument where important nobles have outlined the history of Portugal, hotel Convento do Espinheiro has been luxuriously restore and is a perfect choice to explore the Alentejo.
LISBON
Hotel Tívoli Avenida Liberdade, 5*
Stay at “the Grande Dame” of hotels in the main avenue of Lisbon, a true landmark since 1933. Today, as ever, the place to see and be seen, a natural meeting point for celebrities, heads of state and royalty alike, offers an exquisite restoration and all kind of facilities.
