Embarking on a journey that spanned enchanting cities of Portugal and Spain. From Porto, Portugal to the rustic charm of Galicia and Ribeira Sacra in Spain, our travel tale is one of unexpected twists, cultural immersion, and familial warmth. From the moment our trip began with canceled flights and lost luggage, to the joyful family reunions and the awe-inspiring landscapes we encountered, every step was an adventure.
This blog post unfolds our experiences through the cobblestone streets of Porto, the historic allure of Santiago de Compostela, and the serene vineyards of Spanish wine country, weaving a narrative of resilience, discovery, and the enduring power of travel to connect and inspire. I typically don’t write quite in this style, but I wanted you to be able to see that we too go on crazy family vacations filled with the unexpected. I hope you enjoy, the stories, the photographs and the warmth of my heart felt as I tell it all.
After a series of travel mishaps, including cancelled flights and lost baggage, my arrival in Porto was anything but ordinary. However, the warmth of my husband’s welcome and the charm of this Portuguese city quickly turned things around.
Our first evening in Porto was spent at the restaurant Wine Club. Here, amidst an array of delectable dishes, we savored exquisite wines followed by the rich, sweet taste of port wine – a perfect introduction to the city’s culinary delights.
Waking up the next morning at the Renaissance Hotel, conveniently located near the Lapa Metro station, we were ready to explore. Our adventure began at the famous Livraria Lello, a stunning bookstore known for its intricate architecture and historic ambiance. Remember, booking tickets in advance is a must here!
Next, we embarked on a captivating 6-bridge boat tour, offering stunning views and a unique perspective of the city. Lunch followed, and with my baggage still missing, we ventured into some shopping areas to pick up essentials.
Our afternoon was a whirlwind tour of Porto’s landmarks. From the towering Clérigos Church and Tower to the historic Almeida Garrett Monument, each site was more impressive than the last. We marveled at the beauty of São Bento Train Station, the solemnity of Porto Cathedral, and the bustling energy of Ribeira Square. We enjoyed the views of the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, we visited the Church of Saint Ildefonso and the vibrant Mercado do Bolhão.
As evening fell, the city transformed. The Dom Luís I Bridge, lit up against the night sky, was a breathtaking sight.
Our day culminated in a dining experience at Elemento, a Michelin-starred restaurant. The tasting menu, complete with a wine pairing, was an adventure in itself. While some dishes were outside my comfort zone, like the raw fish dishes, others were a delightful surprise. My husband relished every course, and I found joy in the cooked dishes and exquisite wines.
Returning to our hotel, we reflected on our unforgettable day in Porto. The city had not only charmed us with its beauty and culinary delights but also shown resilience in the face of travel challenges. Porto, a city of unexpected adventures and delightful discoveries, had captured our hearts.
The adventure continued as we woke up the next morning, energized and ready for the next leg of our journey – a bus ride to Vigo, Spain. The excitement of crossing into another country added an extra thrill to our travels.
Upon our arrival in Vigo, we were warmly greeted by my husband’s sister. She whisked us away to a cozy local spot for tapas and wine, an authentic introduction to the Spanish culinary scene. The flavors were vibrant, a delightful contrast to the rich, heavy fare we had enjoyed in Porto.
Our exploration of Vigo led us to the Fortaleza de O Castro. Hiking up the hill to this historic fortress offered not just a glimpse into the past but also breathtaking views of the city and sea. It was a serene moment, standing atop, looking out over the landscape that so beautifully blends history with modernity.
Then came an unexpected twist in our journey – picking up a special order turkey for Thanksgiving. In Spain, where Thanksgiving isn’t traditionally celebrated, finding a turkey required some planning. This task added a unique, almost adventurous element to our holiday preparations.
The evening was spent in the warmth of family at my sister-in-law’s home. We greeted my nephews as they returned from school, their excitement and energy instantly infectious. Dinner was a lovely, intimate affair, filled with laughter, stories, and the joy of family reunion.
Thanksgiving Day dawned bright and early. We embarked on a hike to the Fortaleza Monte Boi – Ermida de Santa Marta in Baiona. This historic site, paired with the natural beauty of the surroundings, was a perfect way to start our day of gratitude. Later, we took my nephew to the park, a simple yet deeply fulfilling experience, seeing the world anew through his eyes.
Lunch was a delightful affair at Taperia la Abuela. The local cuisine was a celebration of flavors, each dish a testament to the culinary heritage of the region.
Returning home, we immersed ourselves in the preparation of Thanksgiving dinner. It was a unique blend of traditions – the American holiday infused with Spanish flair. The joy of cooking together, sharing recipes, and the anticipation of a festive meal made for an unforgettable experience.
As we sat down to dinner, surrounded by family, the essence of Thanksgiving – gratitude, love, and togetherness – was palpable. The evening was spent playing with my nephews, reading to them, and cherishing the precious moments of familial bond.
This Thanksgiving, far from home yet surrounded by family, was a poignant reminder of the universal language of love and kinship. In the heart of Galicia, we found a second home, a place of warmth, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Our journey continued as we woke up early the next morning, eager to catch a train to Santiago de Compostela. The city, known for its historic significance and spiritual allure, promised a day of exploration and culinary delights.
Arriving in Santiago, we started our day with a quick breakfast, fueling up for the adventures ahead. Our first stop was Parque de Alameda and Santa Susana, two serene green spaces offering a peaceful respite from the bustling city streets.
The charming Old Town beckoned next. However, with our phone GPS proving unreliable, we stopped by the tourism center to grab a map. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise, allowing us to navigate the city’s winding, cobbled streets with ease.
Our exploration led us to the magnificent Cathedral de Santiago de Compostela and the vibrant local market nearby. The cathedral, a masterpiece of architectural beauty, stood as a testament to the city’s rich religious and cultural history.
For lunch, we descended to Senderio Food Experience, indulging in local flavors and savories. The meal was not just about the food but also the experience of dining amidst the city’s historic backdrop.
Post-lunch, we meandered back up the hill, taking our time to absorb the sights and sounds of the old town. The return visit to the Cathedral de Santiago de Compostela was awe-inspiring. The intricate details, the solemnity of the space, and its historical significance left us in quiet reverence.
Our journey continued to Quintana Square and the Monastery of San Martín Pinario, with its stunning garden – an oasis of calm and beauty. Each step through Santiago de Compostela was like walking through a living museum, rich in history and spirituality.
With some time to spare before meeting our family, we relaxed at A Carrilana. Here, we enjoyed refreshing drinks and a light snack, reflecting on the day’s experiences.
The day concluded with a family reunion, and together, we set off to Sober, Spain, for a weekend in the heart of wine country. The anticipation of vineyard visits, wine tastings, and the rustic charm of the countryside added a new layer of excitement to our travel tale.
This leg of our journey through Santiago de Compostela had been a blend of spiritual enrichment, culinary exploration, and the simple joy of discovery, setting the stage for our next adventure in the tranquil vineyards of Spain.
Our adventure in Spain continued with a morning boat tour through the breathtaking Canyon of Sils. Gliding through the serene waters, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery, was an experience of pure tranquility.
Lunch at Alma Sacra followed, where we indulged in delightful local cuisine, the flavors perfectly capturing the essence of the region. Reenergized, we ventured to several viewpoints, each offering a unique and stunning perspective of the Ribeira Sacra’s natural beauty.
The day concluded with more cherished family time back at the house, reinforcing the warmth and joy of our visit.
The next day marked another highlight of our trip – a wine tasting at Bodega Regina Viarum. The Ribeira Sacra, with its awe-inspiring landscapes and exquisite wines, was a feast for the senses. Each sip seemed to tell a story of the land and its rich heritage.
Lunch at Berso was next, another culinary gem that added to our collection of memorable meals. Post-lunch, we returned to Pontevedra and my sister-in-law’s home, where a pleasant surprise awaited – my long-lost suitcase had finally arrived!
With our trip nearing its end, we spent the next day soaking in the local charm. A hearty breakfast in a nearby town was followed by a hike along the trail at Monumento a la Marina Universal in Baiona. The hike, invigorating and scenic, worked up our appetites for a meat-centric lunch at Los Abetos – a fitting tribute to the region’s gastronomic excellence.
Back at the house, we gathered with the family for one last time before the journey home. Amidst the laughter and stories, we packed our bags, our hearts full of new memories and experiences.
Our return to Porto marked the final leg of our journey. The travel back was long – over 24 hours of driving, airport waits, and flights. Yet, as we made our way home, there was a sense of contentment and anticipation. We were ready for a brief rest, already looking forward to our next adventure before the Christmas festivities.
From the unexpected challenges to the joyous family reunions, this trip was a tapestry of experiences, weaving together the diverse cultures, landscapes, and flavors of Portugal and Spain. It was a journey that would live in our hearts forever.
-S&E
