About Us – The History of Sip Douro
Sip Douro was born in the Douro Valley, but began long before it existed as a company.
David and I met while working at the Pousada Barão de Forrester in Alijó. For several years, we were in direct contact with travelers from all over the world who came to visit the Douro. We welcomed people, listened to stories, shared recommendations, and fulfilled expectations.
It was through this daily contact with tourists that we began to realize something important:
The Douro always enchanted visitors. But many visitors were looking for an even closer, more personalized, and more authentic experience.
They wanted less rush.
More context.
More real connection to the territory.
And that's when the idea began to take shape.
Why Sip Douro was created
After years of experiencing tourism in the Douro from the inside, Gonçalo and David decided to create something that reflected how they believe the region should be presented.
Sip Douro was born with a simple intention:
To offer experiences in the Douro Valley with authenticity, proximity, and a human touch.
No mass tourism.
No rushed schedules.
No repetitive formulas.
But with a real connection to the territory, the producers, and the stories that make the Douro a unique region.
The Way to Experience Tourism in the Douro
At Sip Douro, every experience is planned down to the last detail.
We work with small groups, prioritize direct contact with local producers, and value time—time to taste, to listen, to observe the landscape, and to understand the context.
Our focus is on creating experiences in the Douro that make sense for those who visit us: whether it's a wine tasting, a boat trip on the Douro River, a lesser-known viewpoint, or lunch with a view over the vineyards.
We don't just sell tours.
We create meaningful moments.
Our Commitment
The Douro Valley deserves to be experienced with time and respect.
Sip Douro exists to showcase the region in a genuine way, with fair prices and an approach that prioritizes quality over quantity.
Because for Gonçalo and David, the Douro is not just a tourist destination.
It is home.
