I visited one of the world's oldest wine regions - it's a gorgeous getaway with breathtaking views

When Portugal comes to mind, it's likely you envision Lisbon with its hilly terrain and labyrinthine streets. Perhaps, tinned fish and the brisk Atlantic sea also spring to mind. However, a stunning valley adorned with terraced grape vines, where port flows generously and a river winds through the mountains, is probably not your first thought.

Just a 90-minute drive from the enchanting city of Porto lies the crown jewel of Portugal's wine culture - the Douro Valley. This breathtaking region is truly a spectacle to witness. As you ascend through the mountains, the verdant landscape unfurls beneath you, dotted with ancient vineyards and neat terraces where locals hang their laundry out to dry.

As you descend the mountain once more, with the valley rising on either side, the Douro River comes into view, meandering its way through the country down to the Atlantic coast, reports the Mirror. The Douro Valley has been a hub for grape cultivation since the Bronze Age, with archaeological evidence suggesting that wine production in the Valley dates back to Ancient Roman times.

Today, there are several outstanding vineyards where you can sample some of the finest red, white, rose and port wines that this beautiful European nation has to offer. Nestled on the hillside in the valley is Quinta de Panascal.

This awe-inspiring estate, dating back to the 18th century, is the most significant of the esteemed Port Wine Company. During our visit on a Sunday afternoon, the sun was casting its glow over the river and lighting up the lush landscape as the traditionally planted vineyards stretched out in terraces below us towards the river.

The method of planting the vines in this manner ensures that the entire vineyard is bathed in sunlight - and according to the guide who escorted us around the estate, temperatures can soar to over 50 degrees Celcius during the peak of summer.

On the lower slopes, nearer to the river, the still warm air becomes trapped between the steep valley banks and wraps around the grapes. Here, the wines produced are rich and velvety, while on the upper slopes which ascend up to 400m above sea level, the grapes yield lighter and crisper flavours.

After taking in the breath taking terrace, we ventured into the cool storehouse where six glasses of white port awaited our tasting.

Under the expert guidance of our guide, we were taught how to swirl, sniff, sip and savour the wine before swallowing it. I wouldn't consider myself a wine connoisseur by any stretch - in fact, I often opt for my personal favourite of cider - but this wine was exceptional.

The tasting comprised four different wines, each one offering a unique experience. It's an experience beyond words. There's sweetness, acidity, fruit, caramel and every other note you could possibly think of.

Being educated to truly appreciate what you're consuming compels you to slow down and genuinely savour the wine as you understand its creation process, and realise the labour of love it takes to transform this much-adored wine from grape to glass.

If you're keen to sample the finest that Portugal has to offer, flights depart from the UK to Porto on a daily basis. From Porto, you have the option to rent a car, or there's a direct train to the Douro Valley if you prefer a leisurely journey on public transport.

In terms of accommodation, The Vintage House Hotel is a stunning venue situated right on the riverbank, boasting breath taking views over the water, along with its own gourmet restaurant and bar.