Castelo de Paiva to Douro Valley and Resende: Day trip

Explore Resende for quaint charm and tantalizing cherries galore.

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting in the early summer months, immerse yourself in the decadent beauty of the Cherry Route to witness the fields in full bloom or sample the best cherries in the country. Then, to Mosteiro de Carquere, a monastery fueled by poetry and legend. Or, choose total relaxation at Termas de Caldas de Aregos, a riverside thermal spa. From there, explore the sleepy Romanesque churches and exceptional views of Feirao or Sao Martinho de Mouros, with a stop at Sao Cristovao de Nogueira for some of the area’s finest craftsmanship. Be sure to sample Pao de Lo de Resende, a fluffy sponge cake the locals love.

Retreat to waterfalls, forest trails, and timeless riverside charm in the Douro Valley.

Tucked between forested hills and murmuring streams, Parque de Lazer do Ribeiro de Sampaio feels like a secret whispered by the Douro. Begin your visit with a gentle walk along the shaded trail that hugs the water, where you’ll pass mossy stone watermills and a postcard-perfect wooden bridge. Pause at the cascading waterfalls or dip your feet in the clear lagoon pools. Don’t miss the wooden swing suspended over the stream. Within just two hours, you’ll experience pure rural peace, framed by birdsong, sun-dappled leaves, and the timeless rhythm of water over stone.