Visiting the Douro Valley is all about getting up close with its famous wines. While many visitors come to the area as a day trip, if you want to linger a little longer, stay onsite at one of the wineries, which offer manor houses, cozy bed and breakfasts, and modern touches for a memorable stay — complete, of course, with river views and plenty of time in the estate cellars.

Quinta de La Rosa

Photo courtesy of Quinta de La Rosa

The family-owned winery and production house of Quinta de La Rosa has played an important role in the region from its spot perched right on the banks of the river, as indicated by its UNESCO World Heritage status. Its 23 rooms are scattered around the estate grounds, offering views of the Douro River and decorative touches that celebrate the property's history, and some have their own balconies or even a private pool.

In addition to the impressive views, you'll also be able to enjoy an onsite wine-tasting and tour of the winery and vineyards. And in keeping with the high level of gastronomic detail, the restaurants are also some of the best in the area. Tim's Terrace offers more casual outdoor dining, with pizza and barbecue, while Cozinha da Clara serves contemporary regional cuisine right on the river paired, of course, with house wines and vegetables from the garden.

Quinta do Tedo

Photo courtesy of Quinta do Tedo

The 18th-century estate at Quinta do Tedo sits at the confluence of the Douro and Tedo rivers, atop terraced vineyards. In addition to making red wine, port, and olive oil, they opened their bed and breakfast agrotourismo in 2011. Its five bedrooms incorporate modern and traditional Portuguese design.

Start with the homemade breakfast, then get acquainted with the property on your included tasting tour and finish up with a meal at the Bistro Terrace. When you're feeling active, follow nearly 2 miles (3 km) of walking trails along the Tedo River and through the vineyards and olive orchards or hop on a mountain bike; those more aquatically inclined can go for a kayak or canoe, or take a dip in the river or the private pool. Try out a round of bocce when you're done — if you're lucky, some of the four dogs might come to help you with your game.

Quinta do Pégo

Photo courtesy of Quinta do Pégo

Another classic country hotel and wine estate, the Quinta do Pégo sits high over the Douro. The 10 rooms of the river-view bed and breakfast are all warmly decorated to make you feel at home.

Each stay includes a daily breakfast buffet and bottle of the estate's port, as well as a tasting in the wine cellar. There's also an option to add a half-board to your stay that includes a nightly three-course dinner at the award-winning Quinta do Pégo Restaurant. Have a glass at the Foz do Távora wine bar, or out by the garden and terrace pool with views out over the valley.

Casa do Rio Wine Hotel

Photo courtesy of Casa do Rio Wine Hotel

If you're looking for a more modern vibe, head to the Casa do Rio Wine Hotel, part of the Quinta do Vallado winery. Its sleek building sits between the vineyards and the river, offering eight minimalist-style rooms. The hotel was designed by the same architect responsible for the winery and has won multiple design and sustainability awards.

Take a guided wine tasting at the winery, then relax by the outdoor pool and its neighboring bar and river views or in the spa, with a jacuzzi, sauna, and Turkish bath. There's a small restaurant as well, open only to guests of the hotel, that uses ingredients from the property's organic garden. When you're ready to explore, head out on a boat or jeep tour, board a canoe or stand-up paddleboard, or wander the property's network of trails by foot or bike.

Planning a trip to Portugal?

Find more advice about how to make the most of your time in the Douro Valley here

Or, describe your ideal trip and we will connect you with a local specialist to make it happen.