PORTUGAL
Tasting Portugal with Bri McKoy
September 26 - October 1, 2027
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.
“
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!
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.
Optional Tile Painting
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.
Cruise the Douro Valley
We'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 in one of Porto's most beautiful 19th century mansions, with the most incredible acoustics!
✦ Sail through the breathtaking, terraced Douro Valley, then indulge in a vineyard lunch paired with local wines
Highlights
✦ Taste your way through Porto’s unique flavor profile, enjoying what the locals love best — ‘bifana’ and ‘francesinha’ — and wash it down with crisp Portuguese vinho verde.
The Accommodation
Modern Elegance: Luxurious Boutique Hotel with Panoramic Douro 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, a mere few minutes walk from Porto’s Bolhao food market.
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 Portughese cobblestones 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 Airport
2 nights in a 5-star boutique hotel with spa, and breakfast included
Guided tuk-tuk tour through Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods and viewpoints
Private group transfer from hotel to Lisbon Oriente Train Station
High-speed one-way train ticket from Lisbon Oriente to Porto Campanhã
Private group transfer from Porto Campanhã Train Station to hotel in Porto
Inclusions
Prices are per person and include:
Shared rooms starting at
£3600 per person
Want to see what your week in Portugal looks like?
Download the complete itinerary and retreat brochure.
“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.
