Portugal: Village Walks & the Douro Valley - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the overall focus of the Portugal: Village Walks & the Douro Valley tour?

  This 8-day active discovery tour offers an ideal balance of city and countryside, allowing you to walk through medieval towns and village hamlets. It's a feast for the senses, with opportunities to savour delicious local food, hike through vineyard and olive grove-laced landscapes of the Douro Valley, sample regional wines and delicacies, and finish with exploration in Porto, rich in history and culture.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  The physical rating for this tour is 3.

• What type of accommodation can I expect during the trip?

  You can expect to stay in small, family-run hotels or pensions, which often have traditional character and are in central locations. While they may vary in standard and some might not have elevators or air-conditioning, they are clean, safe, and conveniently located. If you need a fan for your room on hot nights, you can request one.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners.

• What kind of activities are included in this tour?

  Included activities feature hikes through Portugal's historic villages like Monsanto and to Sortelha Castle, exploration of Serra da Estrela National Park and Vale do Rossim Lagoon, guided walks through Douro Valley vineyards with regional lunches and wine tastings, and a choice of a walking tour of Porto or a Douro river cruise with port wine tasting.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 16 participants.

• What are the age requirements to participate in this tour?

  The minimum age to participate is 18, and the maximum age is 100.

• Is travel insurance mandatory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must cover medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. It is also strongly recommended that the policy covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects.

• What are the primary modes of transportation used on this trip?

  The main modes of transportation for this trip are private vehicles and walking.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour, unless specified for trips traveling between two different countries.

• What are the tipping guidelines for the trip?

  Tipping for all included activities and meals is already covered as part of the Geluxe Collection. Tipping for your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and porterage is not included, but appreciated. A guideline for tipping the CEO is €8-10 per person, per day. For any non-included meals or activities, a 10% tip is appropriate in Europe.

• Who will be leading the group during the tour?

  A Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will lead the group throughout the tour, often complemented by local guides for specific activities.

• What is the accommodation policy for solo travelers?

  Solo travelers on group trips are typically paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex without an extra cost. If you opt for the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive a single room for all night stops.

• Are there any health considerations or medical advice I should be aware of before traveling?

  It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and any required inoculations well before departure. It's recommended to carry a first aid kit, hand sanitizers, and any personal medical requirements, as the tour may pass through remote areas without immediate access to medical facilities.

• What is the currency used in Portugal, and what payment methods are recommended?

  The currency in Portugal is the Euro (EUR). It is recommended to bring a combination of cash, credit cards, and debit cards.