> Portugal
The Douro River begins in Spain and flows to the ocean through Porto, but is perhaps best known for its connection to the port wine region of Northern Portugal. Terraced vineyards line the hillsides where the grapes are grown. The wine was taken by flat bottom boat down the river to cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, across from the river from Porto. The cellars are still there offering tastings and bottles of port, but the river is used more for tourist activities than the transport of wine. However, it is quite scenic and well worth exploring by boat or vehicle.
