PORTUGAL
Tasting Porto with Bri McKoy
September 26 – October 1, 2027
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Porto
Northern Portugal
Join us together with beloved author and food bloggess, Bri McKoy on an unforgettable journey to Porto, Portugal — a city that takes its cuisine as seriously as its famed fado.
We’ll be staying in the heart of Porto in a boutique hotel that blends timeless architecture with modern elegance.
This is a trip for fun-loving, adventurous food lovers who aren’t afraid to try new things. If you’re curious, we invite you to come — but beware, you might just discover a newfound passion for all things Portuguese… including tinned fish!
A note from Bri McKoy
Come to Porto with me!
Portugal knows how to gather and that's exactly why I'm taking you there with me! Grilled fish, wine that's been perfected for centuries, coastlines that hold the whole Atlantic in one breath... This is a country built for long tables and full plates. Come taste it with me: fresh-off-the-grill everything, vinho verde poured generously, warm pastéis de nata (famous custard tarts!), and meals cooked by the people who've spent generations getting them right. We'll wander the markets, eat our way through the country, sip our way through coastal vineyards, and slow all the way down. Pack your curiosity. Portugal is ready for you.
“
The Experience
Portugal Unfolded: Authentic Coastal Charms, Timeless Villages, and Bold Culinary Journeys
This trip offers the perfect balance of culture and cuisine —all set against the enchanting backdrop of Northern Portugal.
Savor Porto
We'll dive into the city’s culinary culture on a guided gastronomic tour, and enjoy a port tasting at a historic cellar. We’ll sample local specialties while learning the stories behind Porto’s vibrant food and wine scene.
Paint Your Own Tile
Learn about the history of tiles in Portugal and Porto, including their origins, who introduced them, the predominant colours, and the city’s most emblematic tiled landmarks. You’ll also paint your own tile, which will be ready for you to take home as a unique souvenir at the end of the class. This is an optional add-on activity.
Optional Douro River Cruise
If you join our Douro Valley Day Trip, you’ll enjoy a private river cruise through the stunning Douro Valley, followed by a vineyard lunch and wine tasting. This peaceful day will be filled with golden landscapes, vineyard-covered hills, and time to unwind.
Traditional Fado Experience
Enjoy an hour of fado, Portugal’s traditional music which is sung and accompanied by an acoustic guitar. The concert will be held in a beautiful, intimate setting with the most incredible acoustics!
The Accommodation
Modern Elegance: Luxurious Boutique Hotel with Panoramic Views over Porto
Luxury Rooms
We’ll stay in a boutique, five-star, design-inspired accommodation — centering its theme around what Porto is known for: wine and books! It’s fantastically situated in the historical city center, just a few minutes’ walk from Porto’s Bolhão food market. Single and shared options are available — be mindful that the shared rooms have two separate beds but they’re still very close together. (Pictured above.)
Spa Bliss
The hotel has a sauna and Turkish bath available as well as this surreal, gorgeous heated indoor pool. The perfect place to ease tired feet from those hilly Portuguese cobblestone streets.
PRE-RETREAT ADD-ON EXPERIENCE
Lisbon
Extend your journey with a seamless two-night stopover in Lisbon, where history, culture, and vibrant city life meet. Enjoy two nights in a charming boutique hotel, nestled in the heart of the city, offering a cozy and authentic base for your adventure.
Your Lisbon experience includes a guided tuk-tuk tour, where you'll zip through the city's picturesque neighborhoods, from the narrow alleys of Alfama to the breathtaking viewpoints of Graça. Take in the panoramic views from São Jorge Castle, discover the iconic Belém Tower, and indulge in the city's legendary pastries. Whether you're savoring a refreshing ginjinha or strolling along the waterfront, Lisbon offers the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.
Includes
Airport pick up from Lisbon Airport2 nights in a 5-star boutique hotel with spa, and breakfast includedGuided tuk-tuk tour through Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods and viewpointsPrivate group transfer from hotel to Lisbon Oriente Train StationHigh-speed one-way train ticket from Lisbon Oriente to Porto CampanhãPrivate group transfer from Porto Campanhã Train Station to hotel in Porto
You can opt into the add-on during the registration process.
DOURO VALLEY DAY TRIP: ADD-ON EXPERIENCE
Douro Valley Cruise & Winery
Set off into one of the world's most fascinating and iconic wine regions. We'll enjoy an hour-long cruise down the peaceful, quiet and gobsmackingly gorgeous Douro River on a traditional Rebelo boat (once used to transport Port).
Afterwards, we'll visit a top, historic winery where we'll learn all about how wine is harvested in this geographically challenging region. We'll end the day with a gourmet meal at this family-owned winery's five-star restaurant. If you like food, wine and all things Portuguese, this day is NOT TO MISS.
Please note the roads to get to Douro Valley are topsy-turvy. While our drivers are extremely cautious and mindful of your comfort and safety, we would not recommend this day trip to those who suffer severe motion sickness.
Includes
Round-trip transportation to and from Douro Valley from hotelOne-hour cruise down Douro RiverScenic stops along the wayWinery tour at top, historic wineryFive-star lunch and Wine Tasting
You can opt into the add-on during the registration process.
Inclusions
Prices are per person and include:
Shared rooms starting at
£3800 per person
“Portugal is not a small country; it's a country of small miracles.”
— José Saramago
Our trips, tailored to you.
Any of our trips can be tailored to suit your needs. Click on the button below and fill out our simple easy form and we’ll send you a quote.
