The picturesque village of Oliveira can be found in the enchanting Douro Region of Portugal. As I strolled towards the village's lone small supermarket, I unexpectedly crossed paths with Margarida, a delightful woman whose entire family resides in this close-knit community of approximately 200 people. The Douro Region is renowned for its exquisite wines and vibrant flora, with the majestic Douro River at its heart.
On the 23rd of July, the village eagerly prepares for its annual "festas populares," a cherished town festival that heralds the arrival of the summer solstice. Arriving a week prior to the festivities, we had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in this idyllic setting, replete with ancient Roman trails and seemingly boundless vineyards. Margarida took great pleasure in showing us the exquisite hand-picked flowers that would adorn the festivities, as well as a few hidden walking trails that Oliveiras has to offer.
During our brief but memorable stay in this captivating region, I made it a point to capture the essence of this community-oriented and vibrant village, where faith and a deep appreciation for Port Wine intertwine harmoniously.