The Presidential is Portugal's most famous train, one that's hosted the likes of Queen Elizabeth II and Pope Paul VI, and has all of its original style immaculately preserved. Running day trips out of Porto between April and October, it offer the chance to explore some of the country's finest vineyards, hidden among the Douro Valley’s beautifully terraced hills, in a truly unique way. Either side of your Presidential rail experience, this short break also includes a private tour of Porto’s cultural gems, as well as a stay in one of the city's finest hotels. It’s all backdropped by a series of gastronomic experiences and on-board lunches cooked by renowned Chef Chakall.
Flying into Porto, you’ll be met by your private driver to be introduced to the varied delights of Portugal’s second city. Its mercantile past has brought great riches to its terracotta-roofed jumble, with its churches gilded with Baroque fineries and great cathedral rising above the city’s medieval rabbit warren. We’ll spirit you to The Yeatman, a luxuriously stylish retreat set on a hillside south of the Douro River and unashamedly dedicated to wine. From the 25,000-bottle cellar to the decanter-shaped infinity pool, life here revolves around the grape.
Relax and unwind in the Caudalie spa, enjoy a sauna or swim in the indoor pool. Soothe any aches or travel stress with a spa treatment such as a Merlot scrub or a signature massage using grape extract. Take a tour of the hotel’s extensive cellar, select your favourite vintage and sit back satisfied in the cosy sofas of Dick’s Bar.
Infinity Pool, The Yeatman, Porto
Today you’ll enjoy an unforgettable day trip aboard The Presidential, disembarking from Porto’s spectacularly marbled São Bento Station. Settling into its dark-wood cabins, you'll strike out into the Douro Valley, watching as Porto’s urbane charms fade into rolling greenery, terraced into vineyards and dotted with pretty whitewashed villages. And, as you trace the Douro River’s meandering laze, you’ll be treated to a true gastronomic education. You’ll begin with lunch, designed and crafted by renowned Chef Chakall. Of course, it's all paired with some of the region’s finest oenological offerings. Then, arriving at Vargelas you’ll enjoy the superb Quinta de Vargelas, a unique sensory experience, where you'll explore the region's wine heritage and enjoy a Port tasting combined with a local dish that celebrates the essence of the region. You’ll then board The Presidential once more, retracing the Douro River’s sweeping curves to arrive back in Porto.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Dining on The Presidential
The Presidential, Portugal
Chef Chakall, The Presidential
Today, immerse yourself in the city of Porto on a tour with a local guide, who'll lead you among the city's essential sights such as the stunning cathedral and Clerigos Tower with its 75-meter-tall bell tower. Spend time in the Bolhao Market, too, for a flavour of the city. Next, you'll cross one of the six beautiful bridges spanning the Douro to explore a Port wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia, the traditional home of Port, where you'll be treated to a wine tasting, led by an expert.
Breakfast included
Porto, Portugal
Wine with a view in Porto
Porto Wine Barrels
After breakfast, a private transfer will see you to the airport in time for your flight home.
"This is a rare chance to explore Portugal's historic treasures and taste its world-leading wines from the comfort of a luxury train. But, the reason I really love this itinerary is it goes beyond just a rail experience. Incorporating gourmet dining, the UNESCO-listed delights of Porto and a stay in one of our favourite luxury Porto hotel, it's the perfect way to experience the very best of this spectacular country."
Andy Austen
Destination Specialist
October from: £2,160 pp
September from: £2,280 pp
Validity:
The Presidential train operates on Fridays and Saturdays In September and October
September departures: 20 / 21 / 27 / 28
October departures: 04 / 05 / 18 / 19 / 25 / 26
Includes: