The Bairrada region, near the Atlantic coast, is known for its sparkling wine, whose improvement has been a winning bet over time. The growing of vines was approved by the first king of Portugal, D. Afonso Henriques, in 1137. At the beginning of the 19th century, it was much appreciated in Brazil, but its exports reached North America, France, and England.

The maritime influence on the mild-temperate climate and the clay-limestone soils with sandy bands results in a sparkling wine that is appreciated to accompany meat dishes and desserts, in which the Bairrada suckling pig (roasted in a wood-oven) and the Aveiro egg sweets, both ex-libris of Portuguese gastronomy, stand out.

The combination of vineyards, mountains, river, and sea marks this wine route. The connection to the sea is natural in the Aveiro area, a city crossed by the canals of the ria that enchants with its Art Nouveau heritage. A visit to Coimbra is a must, to get to know the University, overlooking the Mondego River, and its secular traditions, where the Fado sung by the students stands out. It is one of the oldest in Europe and it is easy to understand why it was classified as a World Heritage Site. The city’s heritage includes the old Santa Cruz Monastery, where King Afonso Henriques and King Sancho I of the first dynasty are buried.

Tasting a Bairrada wine in the Neomanueline Palace of Buçaco, after a walk in the exuberant nature of the forest, is a unique experience.

Close to Forest of Buçaco, which in the 17th century the Bishop of Coimbra ordered to be built as a place of recollection and prayer, the spas of Luso and Curia are a reference in the region and the ideal place to rest, escape routine and take care of health and well-being.