Our Escorted Tour of Spain and Portugal has reached its final chapter. Melissa and Sandra have spent their last week on tour with our New Zealand group in Porto and along the Douro River, and Melissa has sent through her closing report, along with a few more photos from the journey.

Porto: a fitting start to the finale

The final week began in Porto, a city as vibrant as it is historic. Melissa describes a riverside full of colour and character, with centuries of history built into every street, and a reputation for producing some of the world's most renowned port wine. It set the tone perfectly for the week ahead.

Cruising the Douro

From Porto, the group boarded Avalon to begin their cruise along the Douro River, through one of the world's oldest wine regions. Days were spent exploring charming villages and centuries-old wine estates, with spectacular terraced vineyards rising from the water on either side. Melissa describes leisurely afternoons simply sailing through the valley, taking in scenery that has been shaped by winemakers for hundreds of years.

Life on board

Beyond the shore excursions, life aboard Avalon offered its own kind of magic. The group found time to relax by the pool, unwind on the Sky Deck and enjoy wonderful food and wine together, all while building new friendships along the way. It is this balance, between rich cultural exploration and genuine relaxation, that makes a small ship river cruise such a special way to experience a region like the Douro.

The perfect finale

Porto and the Douro River proved the perfect way to close out an unforgettable escorted journey through Spain and Portugal. With the group now homeward bound, we want to congratulate everyone who travelled, and thank Melissa and Sandra for the care they brought to hosting this tour from start to finish.

If a journey like this has caught your imagination, we would love to help you plan your own. Get in touch with your YOU Travel & Cruise Consultant today, and let's start planning your next holiday or cruise together.