Day 9 - Mateus Palace & Gardens
We pay a visit to the gorgeous Mateus Palace today and its
stunning gardens. Located at the heart of the Vila Real region,
this 18th century stately home is a delight to explore, with its
classic, Italianate exterior, decorative interiors and beautifully
manicured parks and gardens which lead up to the palace itself.
Originally built in the 18th century by acclaimed Portuguese
architect Nicolau Nasoni, the design lends it a timeless, yet
quintessentially Portuguese quality. We take a tour of the building
itself, before enjoying free time to visit the built-in chapel and
the winery.
On our return to the ship later, we sit down with the captain
for a resplendent gala dinner, offering a chance to reminisce about
our adventures on Portugal's finest river. After the food, we are
given a traditional folk dance performance from a local troupe.
Includes