Viscondes Da Varzea - Lamego

During our family trip to the Douro Valley, we had the pleasure of spending an unforgettable afternoon at Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea with Countess Maria. Located just 30 minutes from Pinhão, the Countess warmly welcomed us and shared captivating stories of her family's history during a pivotal period in Portugal. We were inspired by her journey of reclaiming the estate that had been expropriated by the government, showcasing her remarkable will, grit, and courage. One of the highlights of our visit was stepping into a historical kitchen. Guided by Countess Maria herself, we had the unique opportunity to cook a traditional lunch over a wood-fired hearth and stove. As we prepared the meal together, the Countess shared insights into the customs and culinary traditions of the region, immersing us in the rich local culture. Laughter and joy filled the air as we engaged in the culinary process, forging deeper connections with one another and creating memories to cherish. The ultimate reward came when we sat down to enjoy the delicious meal we had prepared together. Cooking with the Countess at Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea was a delightful blend of history, culture, and gastronomy. It allowed us to not only appreciate the beauty of the region but also to connect with its heritage on a personal level. This experience was a testament to the Countess's resilience and passion, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts and minds.

My husband and I enjoyed a fabulous afternoon with Countess Maria at her estate just outside of Lamego. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with open arms and an open heart. During a tour of the grounds and her magnificent home, Countess Maria shared her family's experiences through a monumental period in Portugal. We then proceeded to a historical kitchen, where we had the experience of cooking a delicious traditional lunch over a wood fired hearth and stove, all the while learning more about the customs of the area.

We had a wonderful day cooking with the Countess! Maria was a gracious host. We had fun spending the day with her at her beautiful estate. We learned to make traditional regional dishes. She made us feel very welcome. She has a great sense of humor. The food was wonderful. Make sure you go with an appetite! I highly recommend this experience! We had the best time!

Our Cooking with the Countess activity during our Douro Valley trip was everything I was hoping for and more. Maria has a beautiful, contagious disposition. Her stories and her property are interesting and amazing. The food was excellent. I highly recommend this and I 'm looking forward to one day staying at her hotel.

We attended a cooking class with Maria. She showed us how to prepare traditional Portugeuse dishes, cook the dishes and then ate what we prepared. Food was great, the atmosphere wonderful, recipes easy to follow. A most enjoyable afternoon. The views from the vineyards are spectacular. Maria is a charming hostess.