Traveler Magazine Andrew Harper Traveler Summer 2019 | Page 32

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PARTNER’S POV
“
The Ribera de Duero north of Madrid is emerging
as a new Napa Valley of Spain, with wineries like
Abadia Retuerta attracting wine aficionados
who are eager to explore the region. The Madrid-
Valladolid-San Sebastian route is brimming with
culture and several Michelin-star restaurants.”
MARIAN GERLICH
A B A D I A R E T U E R TA L E D O M A I N E
Douro
Valley
(2 Nights)
SUMMER | 2019
An enchanting valley of steeply terraced
vineyards, the Douro is known for its tawny
Ports as well as its exceptional table wines.
Less commercialized than some other wine
regions, tours and tastings tend to be relaxed
affairs, often led by the vintners themselves.
Once considered a hidden gem, the valley only
began to gain international popularity in the
last decade, in part because there were so few
places to stay. Thankfully that has changed,
and the valley now boasts two excellent
vineyard hotels.
C O N TACT YO U R T R AV E L A DV I S O R TO DAY
A short drive from Madrid, the Abadía
Retuerta Le Domaine is an elegant Romanesque
abbey set on a spectacular estate that includes
500 acres of working vineyards. Closer to
Porto, the Six Senses Douro Valley offers
guests gorgeous valley views from a hilltop
estate that features a much-celebrated spa.
Both hotels can organize tours of local
wineries, delightful al fresco lunches in the
vineyards and lazy afternoon cruises aboard
the river’s traditional flat-bottomed boats.