Join us on this exclusive trip to Portugal

Palaces, Castles, Wineries, Michelin-Star Restaurants, Beachfront Properties, and More!

June 3 – 10, 2023

We are thrilled to announce our next boots-on-the-ground trip for 2023, which will take us on a sublime journey through Portugal.

Portugal is a stunning country, filled with medieval castles and romantic palaces, several of Europe’s most renowned wineries and acclaimed restaurants, as well as some of the best luxury hotels and gorgeous beachfront properties in the world.

Portugal really has something for everyone. And this tour will enable you to immerse yourself in the very finest the country has to offer whilst traveling in the company of a small group of phenomenal, like-minded individuals.

For one week at the beginning of summer (June 3-10), we will explore this fascinating Iberian country, starting with lively, colorful Porto in the north… Followed by a journey through the rolling hills dotted with wineries in Douro Valley… And then on to the lovely medieval city of Coimbra, before arriving in hilly Lisbon, the country’s capital.

We’ll end our trip in Sintra – a fairytale town full of palaces and castles, tucked away in verdant, forested mountains… But we’ll also stop by Cascais, the premier oceanfront suburb favored by locals and international visitors alike.

Day 1: Arrival at Porto, Transfer to Hotel, Visit to Wine Cellar and Dinner (Saturday, June 3)

Our adventure begins in lively Porto. Renowned as the home of port wine, this unreasonably photogenic city is a major commercial and tourism hub. We’ll spend two nights at Maison Albar Le Monumental Palace, which is one of the most beautiful historical buildings (turned into a 5-star luxury hotel) situated in the heart of the heart of the city.

Upon arrival and after check in, we’ll visit Cockburn’s Port Lodge, a historic wine cellar, which has housed seasoned oak barrels of maturing port since 1815. You’ll enjoy a private guided visit of the cellar, and a premium wine tasting with chocolate pairing.

Porto is known for its vibrance and unique food scene, and we’ll end the first day with a private dinner at one of our first Michelin-star restaurantsLe Monument. It is located in the hotel, and we have reserved a stunning “Turquoise Room” for our group.

This is a gourmet restaurant which invites each guest to discover the richness of Portugal’s culinary heritage, enhanced by the French savoir-faire of a renowned chef.

Accommodation: Maison Albar Le Monumental Palace

Day 2: Historic Porto Guided Tour, Visit to Real Estate Properties, Dinner at Vinum (Sunday, June 4)

The following day, we will explore historic Porto with a private guide.

We’ll discover the history of the city, visiting the most iconic locations – Clerigos Tower, Porto Cathedral, Church of Saint Francis, The Stock Exchange (located in a palace!), the Livraria Lello bookstore, which is considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the entire world…

All while drinking in the stupendous views of the Douro river. We will have lunch at DeCastro Gaia restaurant, where wines are matched with Portuguese snacks under the guidance of renowned Chef Miguel Castro Silva.

In the afternoon, we will look at real estate in Porto – it is a growing city, and has some really interesting RE opportunities for both investors and potential residents.

We will end this day with another sensational dinner at the exclusive Vinum Restaurant, surrounded by casks that contain some of the city’s most valuable Graham’s Ports, and boasting magnificent views over the Douro River and the cities of Porto and Gaia.

Accommodation: Maison Albar Le Monumental Palace

Day 3: Transfer to Douro Valley, Stay at Six Senses, Visit to Quinta do Crasto Winery (Monday, June 5)

Next on our itinerary, we’ll spend two days visiting the rolling hills of the Douro Valley, which is renowned as one of the most beautiful wine producing valleys in the world. (It’s a short 90-minute drive from Porto, so we will be going there via ground transfer, in a comfortable Mercedes minibus).

On our first day in the valley, we will visit the Quinta do Crasto Winery. It is home to one of the world’s most famous vineyards, and is among the oldest wineries in Portugal. We’ll enjoy a private guided tour of its oldest cellars, after which we’ll savor a specially curated lunch with wine pairing.

For what comes next, we could not be more excited, because we’ve managed to reserve THE best accommodation available in the area: at the stunning, award-winning Six Senses Douro Valley Hotel & Spa. This incredible resort is situated in a 19th century palace, which is listed as a UNESCO heritage site.

The hotel is literally always booked – and we are not exaggerating here. But we were able to secure these reservations because of our local contacts. If you want to experience the crème de la crème of hotel stays in the Douro Valley, then this is the place for you.

In the evening, after we’ve checked in at Six Senses, you’ll have some time to relax and refresh before dinner. We’ll finish the day at the delightful DOC restaurant situated right on the river.

This restaurant offers a number of extraordinary signature dishes, and is led by world renowned Michelin-Star chef, Rui Paula.

Accommodation: Six Senses Douro Valley Hotel & Spa

Day 4: Wine & Soul Private Winery Owner-Guided Visit, Meditation at Six Senses, Dinner at The Vale de Abraão (Tuesday, June 6)

On our second day in Douro Valley, after breakfast at Six Senses, we will head out to explore another renowned winery in the area – Wine & Soul. We will meet the owners, Jorge Serôdio Borges and Sandra Tavares da Silva, who is counted among the most notable winemakers in the world.

In addition, you will get to sample an array of their acclaimed wines, including the famous “Pintas” offering, which has won numerous international accolades.

The owners will show us around the vineyard, recounting the history of the place and sharing their winemaking journey, and you’ll enjoy a wonderful lunch paired with some of their best wines.

After returning to Six Senses, we will participate in a group meditation session, relaxing and nourishing our spirits in this truly spectacular setting.

During the evening we will dine at The Vale de Abraão restaurant located in the hotel. Seasonal market-inspired fares incorporate some of the region’s signature cuisine and organic local ingredients.

An open cooking station in the restaurant features a wood-fired oven and a Josper grill. You can observe the meal preparation in progress, led by an expert chef and their seasoned team.

Accommodation: Six Senses Douro Valley Hotel & Spa

Day 5: On our Way to Lisbon, Visit The Medieval City of Coimbra, Dinner at Famous Belcanto (Wednesday, June 7)

After these relaxing two days in Douro Valley, we’ll head south towards the Portuguese capital, Lisbon. On the way, we’ll stop at Coimbra, the fascinating medieval city that formerly served as capital of Portugal.

A guide will be waiting for us there, and will show us around this captivating city. And after lunch at a quaint local restaurant in Coimbra, we’ll continue our journey towards Lisbon. 

Upon arrival, we’ll head directly to our hotel, where we’ll spend the next two nights.

This one is located in – you guessed right – yet another palace – Palácio Ludovice.

It is a 5-star boutique hotel, where history meets luxury against the backdrop of viniculture. (Fun fact about the hotel: Even the spa is in the grape game, as it offers treatments such as a “Crushed Cabernet Scrub”.)

Located in the heart of Lisbon amidst the mythical Chiado, Bairro Alto and Príncipe Real neighborhoods, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

It is also a former private residence of João Federico Ludovice, architect to King João V in the 18th century. The hotel has recently been completely transformed under the eye of a contemporary architect Miguel Câncio Martins to bring to life the ultimate luxury boutique hotel experience.

In the evening, we’ll dine that night at the superb, two-star Michelin restaurant Belcanto, a legendary Lisbon establishment. Not long ago, it was revived by Chef José Avillez, who created dishes influenced by Lisbon’s maritime history and its distinct neighborhoods.

Accommodation: Palácio Ludovice Lisbon

Day 6: Meet Local Legal Professionals, Explore Lisbon, Luxury Boat Cruise and Fado Dinner (Thursday, June 8)

After breakfast the next day, we will hear from our favorite legal professionals in Portugal about residency and taxation, along with an update on the latest changes to the country’s popular Golden Visa program. They’ll join us at the hotel.

We’ll devote the remainder of the day to exploring Lisbon. We will first learn about its history, and visit several districts on foot in the company of a certified private guide.

And after lunch, we’ll continue our exploration by boat as we enjoy a 2-hour luxury river cruise along the River Tagus.

We’ll end the day at the iconic Mesa de Frades, a fado restaurant built in a former chapel in the historic fado neighborhood, Alfama. Fado, as a musical genre, fundamentally embodies Portuguese culture and tradition, and you’ll be treated to wonderful local fado music while enjoying your dinner.

(Please note that the Fado dinner starts later, at about 9:30PM, and can go until late hours. You don’t need to stay for the entire time – unless, of course, you are a big Fado fan or like the experience. Please also note that talking during a Fado performance is considered exceptionally bad etiquette.)

Accommodation: Palácio Ludovice Lisbon

Day 7: Castles and Palaces of the Magical Sintra, Visit to Beachfront Properties in Cascais, Dinner at Midori, Stay at Penha Longa Ritz Carlton Resort (Friday, June 9)

We will finish our trip with a day visit to the magical town of Sintra and the stunning beachside neighborhood of Cascais.

We’ll leave the hotel in Lisbon early in the morning, to be the first in line to check out the legendary Pena Palace. The palace crowns the hills of Sintra, and is renowned as one of the “Seven Wonders of Portugal”.

Its architecture and shapes are so unique that they evoke a sense of awe and disbelief in first-time visitors. A guide will give us a completely private tour of the palace before everyone else arrives.

Time-permitting, we’ll also stop by Quinta da Regaleira, a magnificent Renaissance-style manor classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

After lunch, we’ll head to nearby Cascais, where we will visit some really interesting properties in this sought-after beach town.

Finally, we will check in at Penha Longa (Ritz Carlton) 5-star resort, where we will spend our last night.

Located in a protected Natural Park just minutes from trendy Cascais, romantic Sintra and historic Lisbon, Penha Longa Resort is a rare blend of authentic European charm and modern amenities. We will also be surrounded by breathtaking views of the Sintra Mountains outside.

We will enjoy a last dinner at the resort, where we’ll have an entire Japanese restaurant, Midorithe first one in Portugal to receive a Michelin star – to ourselves.

Accommodation: Penha Longa Ritz Carlton Resort

Day 8: Breakfast at Penha Longa, Transfers to Lisbon Airport, Departures (Saturday, June 10)

On the last day of our trip, after breakfast at Penha Longa resort, you will have a few hours to enjoy the breathtaking property and the views of Sintra mountain.

We’ll arrange private transfers to Lisbon Airport for everyone in the group later that day, depending on when your flight departs.

Maison Albar Le Monumental Palace Porto

Situated just a stone’s throw from Clérigos and the Bolhão market, Le Monumental Palace is a 5-star luxury hotel affording easy access to many of the city’s key attractions…

The hotel delivers on all fronts: boasting an unbeatable location, a breathtaking design, and three restaurants helmed by Michelin-starred chef Julien Montbabut, there are few top-end establishments that can compete with Le Monumental by Maison Albar Hotels.

Occupying a neoclassical palace the property channels 1930s Paris with its dazzling art-deco design, modish brasserie and rakish cocktail lounge.

Stepping inside this decadent grande dame feels akin to finding the Lost Generation – as soon as you pass through the art-nouveau entrance, you’re surrounded by Portuguese marble, golden lamps and carpets embellished with bold patterns.

Upstairs, you’re treated to generous rooms dressed with lacquered furniture, pastel fabrics and vast decorative-edged mirrors.

Downstairs, choose from an elegant all-day brasserie or Francophile fine-dining restaurant, where choice Portuguese ingredients are prepared with Gallic flair.

And perhaps one of the most famous attractions of the hotel is the renowned cafe: Trading since 1923, the Monumental Café is the heart and soul of the hotel.

Recalling the elegant brasseries of Paris, this casual all-day restaurant is flooded with light thanks to its vast windows, mirror-clad walls and floor of gleaming tiles.

After dark, find your poison at the low-lit Bar Americain, or enjoy one of the rejuvenating treatments at the luxurious Nuxe spa.

Six Senses Douro Valley Hotel & Spa

Six Senses Hotel & Spa is housed in a 19th-century manor (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Situated in a dip of the Douro valley and overlooking vine-covered terraces with the Douro river gently flowing at its feet, the property offers THE ultimate Portuguese luxury escape.

The hotel has been exquisitely restored, with contemporary interiors reflecting both the region’s rich heritage and Six Senses’ acclaimed design values. The romantic, spacious and comfortable rooms feature Portuguese oak floors, earthy tones and textured walls.

This luxury boutique resort achieves an effortless sense of balance. Here, you can reconcile healthy living with your inner hedonist.

You can luxuriate in river-view rooms, admire ancient trees in the grounds’ nature trails, feast on organic produce from the kitchen’s own gardens, and surrender to the sublime treatments of the spa’s skilled therapists.

Outside, you’ll find two inviting pools, while ‘relaxation pods’ in the forest provide a romantic setting for quality time à deux.

Of course, you could just as easily make a beeline for the resort’s wine cellar for a masterclass on its 700-bottle list of exquisite ports or wines from the Douro region, crafted by the hotel’s two wine directors.

In summary, everything you could desire from a wellness break can be found at Six Senses Douro Valley.

From restorative massages and sublime treatments at the hotel spa to early morning yoga classes and hikes in the surrounding hills, a visit to the property is a soul-nourishing experience.… The spectacular setting, complemented by seasonal cuisine and exquisite wines from the valley are all waiting to lift your spirits and bring joy to your soul.

Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel Lisbon

In a city with its share of palace hotels, Palácio Ludovice stands out for its remarkable history, thoughtful design, exceptional wine program and prime location. This newly remodeled hotel takes up an entire block at the intersection of Chiado, Bairro Alto and Principe Real, in the historic Lisbon.

The hotel occupies the former private residence of João Federico Ludovice, who served as the architect to King João V during the 18th century. The property’s renovation, completed in 2022, preserved the original blue-and-white tiles, frescoes, and stucco ceilings, and it is now home to stylish, individually-designed accommodations.

Its grand décor combines original 18th century elements like painted tiles, carved wooden ceilings and walls with a contemporary touch. The property will take you back in time to live as a distinguished guest of Federico Ludovice in his private manor.

A privileged location, superb accommodation, an iconic culinary experience, curated wine tastings at the Porto Wine Institute and sublime spa treatments come together seamlessly, allowing you to discover Lisbon through the lens of a fine wine connoisseur.

Penha Longa (Ritz Carlton) Resort Sintra

Located in a protected Natural Park just minutes from trendy Cascais, romantic Sintra and historic Lisbon, the luxury Penha Longa Resort is a rare blend of authentic European charm and modern accessibility.

Penha Longa, which means “Long Rock” has a long history and natural beauty. Today, Penha Longa stands as a timeless link to five centuries of grand Portuguese estate luxury. Its tranquility, natural beauty and plethora of outdoor activities make this Resort one of Europe’s most attractive and exclusive retreats.

The hotel, the only one within the natural park, seamlessly incorporates a 14th century monastery and chapel within its elegant, palazzo-style estate setting. It dates back to the time when both hermit monks and Portuguese royalty called the Sintra Mountains home.

There is a 27-hole championship golf course on the resort grounds that can be both played and admired. You’ll also find a number of other activities to enjoy that celebrate nature and tradition. Finally, three of nine dining experiences at the Penha Longa Resort hold coveted Michelin stars.

Entry Requirements:

There are no longer any Covid-related requirements in Portugal and the EU. You’ll only need the following to enter Portugal:

  • Valid passport
  • Return ticket from Portugal (if you are not a EU citizen or resident) 

Climate and Weather

Summers in Portugal tend to get quite hot, but during the time of our trip – scheduled for the beginning of June – the weather will still be very pleasant.

The average temperature in Porto in June ranges from a high of 73°F (23°C) to a low of 57°F (14°C). The nights can be mildly cool with a gentle breeze, so it’s a good idea to bring a warm sweater or a jacket for the evenings.  

While in Douro Valley, it will likely be quite warm during the day, but the temperature drops at night to as low as 56°F (13°C), so you’ll want to bring warm clothing with you to change into. The average maximum temperature in the area during the day is 77°F (25°C).

You can expect warmer daily temperatures while in Lisbon, although at the beginning of June the temperature shouldn’t be higher than 77°F (25°C). However, mornings and late nights will be cooler, so the same principle applies as for Porto and Douro Valley – bring warmer clothing for the evenings.

Finally, our last destination on the itinerary – Sintra – is located in the mountains. It will be slightly cooler there, and more windy, so you’ll definitely want to have a jacket or a sweater for early mornings and evenings there. 

The average temperature in Sintra for the beginning of June ranges from a high of 71°F (22°C) to a low of 61°F (16°C).

(The weather in Cascais, the beachfront town, is very similar to that of Sintra.)

Clothing

Lightweight cotton and linen clothing will be great for the day in most of the cities we’ll visit in Portugal at the beginning of June. However, remember to pack some warmer clothes for the cooler evenings, and especially for Porto, you may want to carry a scarf as it could get windy.

Finally, please bear in mind that we will be having dinners at many high-end, Michelin-star restaurants that normally require business casual attire. 

You are also welcome to wear something even dressier in Lisbon where we’ll visit Belcanto, an acclaimed 2-Michelin-star restaurant.

Electrical Outlets

Portugal uses two associated plug types, C and F. Plug type C is the one which has two round pins, and type F has two round pins with two earth clips on the side. 

Portugal operates on 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. Plugs are typically the 2-pronged flat type, so US travelers will typically need a travel adapter.

Lodging + Board (Includes private dining at Michelin-star restaurants)

  • 2 nights at the luxury 5-star Maison Albar Le Monumental Palace Porto Hotel (Deluxe Room), inclusive of breakfast.
  • 2 nights at the luxury 5-star Six Senses Douro Valley Hotel & Spa (Quinta Deluxe Room with Vineyard/Valley views), inclusive of breakfast and dinner at The Vale de Abraão restaurant.
  • 2 nights at the 5-star luxury boutique hotel, Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Lisbon (Superior Room), inclusive of breakfast.
  • 1 night at the 5-star luxury Penha Longa (Ritz Carlton) Sintra Resort (Deluxe Room), inclusive of breakfast.
  • Private Dinners at Michelin-star restaurants Le Monument (Porto) and Midori (Sintra), with a pre-set tasting menu and wine pairing/drinks.
  • Dinner at 2-Michelin-star restaurant Belcanto (Lisbon) with a pre-set tasting menu and wine pairing/drinks.
  • Dinner at Michelin-star chef Rui Paula led DOC restaurant (Douro Valley) with a pre-set tasting menu and wine pairing/drinks.
  • Dinner at Vinum (Porto), inclusive of a pre-set menu, inclusive of all drinks.
  • Dinner at Mesa de Frades (Lisbon), inclusive of a pre-set menu, inclusive of all drinks.
  • 6 lunches in Porto, Douro Valley, Coimbra, Lisbon and Sintra with pre-set menus, inclusive of all drinks.

Activities

  • Guided private tour of Porto with a certified professional guide
  • Private tour of Port Cellar, Cockburn’s Lodge with premium wine/port tasting and chocolate pairing
  • Private Quinta do Crasto Winery tour (Douro Valley) with premium wine tasting and traditional lunch 
  • Private Wine & Soul Winery tour curated with the award-winning owners/winemakers, combing with premium wine tasting and lunch
  • Private tour of Coimbra with a certified professional guide
  • Private tour of Lisbon with a certified professional guide
  • Private 2-hour River Cruise in Lisbon on board a luxury catamaran with snacks and drinks 
  • Private tour of Pena Palace in Sintra
  • Guided visit to Quinta da Regaleira, Sintra
  • Fado show at a traditional Fado House, Mesa de Frades (combined with dinner/drinks)
  • Monuments entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary in Porto, Coimbra, Lisbon and Sintra
  • All insurance fees required by the Portuguese Tourism Organization.

Transportation

  • Private transfer from Porto Airport (OPO) to Maison Albar Le Monumental Hotel
  • All required ground transportation while in Porto
  • Private overland transfer from Porto to Douro Valley with an English-speaking driver in a luxury Mercedes minibus
  • Private transfer to all wineries and Six Senses Hotel & Spa while in Douro Valley
  • Private transfer from Douro Valley to Lisbon via Coimbra
  • All required transportation while in Lisbon
  • Private transfer from Lisbon to Sintra and Cascais
  • Private transfers from Sintra to Lisbon Airport (LIS).

Other items included:

  • All tips at hotels and restaurants, including Michelin-star ones. 
  • International flight arriving to Porto Airport (OPO), leaving from Lisbon Airport (LIS).
  • Refreshments, bottled drinks and bar bills outside standard itinerary/scheduled meals.
  • Optional/alternative or suggested activities.
  • Personal expenses and (additional) tips for hotel staff, guides and drivers.
  • Extra expenses in hotels: spa, laundry, minibar, telephone calls, etc.
  • Tickets to national parks or tourist attractions not included in the itinerary.
  • Any extensions before or after the trip.

We are so excited to see the interest in this trip, and worked hard to negotiate the best price for all the high-end experiences exclusively for our members. Please note that due to the nature of the trip and the size of the group, we can only allow cancellations if we can find a replacement for your spot.

Please remember to check your calendar first… Cancellations/refunds will only be issued if a replacement is found.

The trip is scheduled for June 3-10, 2023 (8 days/7 nights).

The cost for individual attendees is $13,450 per person  (5 Single-Occupancy slots are available).

The cost for double-occupancy slots is $21,400 ($10,700 per person). (3 Double-Occupancy slots are available).

Pricing is based on 12 attendees (Sovereign Man’s CEO will be traveling with you).

Please also note that spots are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.

Reserve Your Spot Today!

Please select whether you are coming alone or with a guest:

Single Occupancy Ticket ($13,450) Double Occupancy Ticket ($21,400)

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