Visit Portugal’s New Campaign Hits the Spot 

Food and travel are closely connected, particularly in Portugal. So it’s fitting that Visit Portugal’s latest campaign, “Portugal, an unwritten recipe,” highlights the country’s cultural and gastronomic offerings. The campaign was launched to showcase the unique blend of ingredients found throughout the nation.

“Portugal, an unwritten recipe” is part of a broader plan to internationalize Portuguese gastronomy as a distinctive and decisive asset for promoting the destination, making it a key reason to visit Portugal,” said Visit Portugal in a release. 

“The campaign thus aims to enhance the recognition of Portuguese gastronomy as a unique and attractive factor for the destination. Gastronomy holds immense potential to stimulate the local economy, promote sustainability, inclusion, and territorial cohesion, and as such, it represents a fundamental pillar in the strategy to promote Destination Portugal.

Travel Market Report visited the country in December, on an itinerary created in conjunction with Air Canada Vacations exploring the Northern region. Wildly impressed by both the wine and food offerings as well their modest pricing, here are three of our picks to stay and dine.

Monteverde Wine Experience Hotel – Originally intended as a larger house for guests, this concept evolved into a boutique hotel with 30 rooms in small buildings. Guests enjoy vineyard views, wine classes, and tours that could inspire them to take sommelier tests. The on-site restaurants offer set menus featuring regional flavours and is highly recommended!

Vintage House Hotel – Situated on the Douro River, this 5-star hotel is notable for its historical charm and strategic location. Dining outdoors is recommended, as the hotel is a former 19th-century winery, and situated in the heart of the Douro Region surrounded by mountains. The region itself is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is part of the oldest demarcated wine region in the world.

Vila Galé Douro Vineyards – There’s a strong sense of serenity upon arrival at this hotel, located in the heart of the Duoro Valley where the Dour and Tedo Rivers meet. It’s a peaceful, winding drive up through the vineyards and olive groves which have existed since the 19th century. Once you reach the hotel reception at the summit, you’re greeted with an incredible view overlooking the Douro and the vineyard of Vila Galé Douro Vineyards.  The food is equally impressive, with a menu emphasizing local items.