A Journey Through the Vineyards

As a travel writer and a mother of three, I am always on the lookout for experiences that can be both educational and enjoyable for the whole family. When I heard about the Setúbal Wine Tour in Lisbon, I was intrigued. While wine tours might not seem like the most kid-friendly activity at first glance, I was determined to explore the possibility of making it a family adventure.

Our guide, Paolo, was a gem from the start. He arrived at our Airbnb 20 minutes early, ensuring a stress-free beginning to our day. As we drove out of Lisbon, Paolo shared fascinating stories about the city’s history, making the journey as engaging as the destination. My children, who are always curious about the world around them, were captivated by his tales.

The first stop was a historic wine cellar, where the art of winemaking has been perfected over a century. The kids were fascinated by the enormous barrels and the process of aging wine. Paolo’s enthusiasm was infectious, and he even arranged for us to smell the aromas of wines aged over 30 years. It was a sensory experience that delighted both young and old.

Discovering the Art of Tile Making

One of the unexpected highlights of the tour was a visit to a local tile-making shop. Portugal is renowned for its beautiful tiles, and this stop added a creative twist to our day. The artisans welcomed us warmly and explained the intricate process of designing and painting tiles.

My children were thrilled to have the opportunity to paint their own tiles. It was a hands-on experience that allowed them to express their creativity while learning about a significant aspect of Portuguese culture. As a parent, I appreciated how this activity seamlessly blended education with fun, making it a memorable part of our journey.

Paolo’s thoughtful planning ensured that the day was filled with diverse experiences. From the vineyards to the tile shop, each stop was carefully curated to offer a glimpse into the rich culture of the Setúbal region. It was a reminder that travel can be a wonderful way to learn and grow together as a family.

Savoring the Flavors of Setúbal

The wine tastings were, of course, a highlight of the tour. While I indulged in the exquisite flavors of Portuguese wines, Paolo made sure that my children were entertained with grape juice tastings and stories about the vineyards. It was a thoughtful touch that allowed me to enjoy the experience without worry.

At the second winery, we explored the vineyards and even met some of the resident animals. The kids were delighted to see the cork trees and learn about the cork-making process. Did you know that Portugal supplies 60% of the world’s cork? It’s these little nuggets of information that make travel so enriching.

Our final stop was in a charming village, where we had the chance to taste a variety of wines from the region. The prices were incredibly reasonable, and I couldn’t resist bringing home a bottle of Reserva for just $8. It was a perfect way to end a day filled with discovery and delight.

Reflecting on our experience, I realized that the Setúbal Wine Tour was more than just a wine tasting. It was a journey through culture, history, and family bonding. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a parent looking for a unique family outing, this tour offers something for everyone. Obrigado, Paolo, for an unforgettable day in Portugal!