Tucked in the heart of the Duoro Valley, Sabrosa is a brilliant destination for food and wine aficionados. The town is also famed as the birthplace of the explorer Magellan, and boasts some fascinating heritage landmarks. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, with some of the best places to stay set amidst the rolling vineyards of Northern Portugal’s wonderful wine country.

Sabrosa can trace its origins back to prehistoric times, and curious explorers can admire the remains of iron age fortifications, Roman ruins, and well-preserved tombs constructed thousands of years ago. The blue and white tiles at Pinhão Railway Station detail the area’s history with real creative flair. The first sailor to cross both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, Magellan is amongst the town’s best-known sons; the doctor, poet and writer Miguel Torga is another — and the modern Espaco Miguel Torga commemorates his life though fascinating exhibitions.

Venture beyond the town for memorable tours and tastings at world-class wineries, followed by long, lazy lunches between the vines. Boat trips along the picturesque Douro River also come highly recommended — perfect for fun family holidays, or romantic escapes. The UNESCO-listed Douro Valley is fabulous. Book early, as the best places to stay in Sabrosa fill up fast!