Porto - 8 October 2013

     We decided to visit Porto on 8th October by Metro from Povoa Da Varzim. We were soon in the centre of Porto and the train trip gave us a glimpse of the Portuguese countryside. We were to encounter some lovely old buildings, namely the Municipal Hall, the Railway Station with its lovely painted tiles depicting battles, travel and life in the countryside and then the Cathedral at the top of the city built on an old moorish castle. 

Porto Municipal Building

Part Of The Porto Railway Station Murial

Fortress Porto Cathedral

Porto Cathedral

     We wandered down to the riverside where we enjoyed a good beer and lunch looking over the river to the Port Caves that have made Porto so famous. All the big names in British Port history could be seen on the far bank. The British have certainly had a big influence in Porto and old photos of Brits appeared everywhere.

The Port Caves Of Porto On The South Bank

Sandeman Port Caves And Headquarters

The Bridge Of Dom Luis 1st With The
Serra Do Pilar Monastry In The Background

   We caught a tram after lunch to go and view the river entrance where we caught a fleet of yachts having a race at the mouth of the River Douro. It is described as being dangerous but they certainly appeared to be having much fun despite the strong tide and swell.

Ginny In The Tram

Yachts Racing At The Entrance To The River Duoro

    We walked across the bridge to the south side to visit the Port Caves and Museum of Sandeman Port in the Villa Nova Da Gaia area. This was to prove a wonderful and interesting experience, plus the tasting was an added bonus. We purchased two bottles of Port on exit. This visit is strongly recommended.

The North Bank Where We Had Enjoyed Lunch

The Bridge You Can Cross On Foot
At The Top Or Bottom Level

Sandeman Port Barrels

Guy Enjoying The Tasting Session

The Famous Sandeman Port Logo.

    A rest was required after the tasting session, so we had a quick meal outside Sandemans before walking back over the bridge on the higher level as the sun disappeared over the horizon. Shattered but happy, we caught the metro back to Povoa Da Varzim to make ready to head south again.

Old Port Barges With The Cathedral In The Background

Douro RiverAnd Porto At Sunset

Night Life Starts In Porto