Internationale groepsreis Edits: Digital Detox in Portugal

If you time your flight arrival in Porto right, you can join one of two airport transfers to take you to FeelViana (be sure to book onto a transfer in advance). It’s a bolthole of a hotel on Portugal’s Costa Verde with a focus on mind, body and soul. Thanks to its sympathetic wood design that camouflages it against the pine trees, FeelViana blends seamlessly with the landscape. Its balance of vibrancy and sanctuary is the perfect antidote to hectic city life.If you’ve time to spare before the beachside welcome briefing and a complimentary sunset aperitif, a few lengths of the pool or a quick session in the impressive gym will get you in the right frame of mind for the next few days. We recommend booking your spa treatment and any optional activities at check-in, as places can be limited.

Fuel up at breakfast this morning, you’ll need your energy for a 43km bike ride that’ll take over some incredible Portuguese landscapes. If your fitness could do with a little more refinement (you had all good intentions for those extra gym sessions, right?), then opt for an e-bike for an extra boost. E-bikes are bookable in advance for a supplement.The ride starts with a 3km climb, after which you'll be rewarded with outstanding views over Viana do Castelo. Then, head towards Santa Luzia Mount to get back to nature, in the company of wild horses and stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean. Aſterwards, descend towards Afife and Arda Beach (an excellent spot for surfing) and then continue to Viana along the Coast Ecovia. For the grand finale, stop in Viana do Castelo and enjoy the famous “Bolas de Berlim” (a type of doughnut) by Manel Natário, a justified reward for today's exertions.Tonight, dinner is included at the hotel.             

You’ll hit the waves for a surfing lesson at the hotel this morning, kitted out with a wet suit and board. It’s a protected spot, so it’s ideal for beginners as well as those with some experience under their belt.Having obliterated some calories, decide where you’ll have lunch at the hotel. The Tavern is a relaxed setting for a light lunch or choose the Beach Bar to be right on the edge of the Atlantic. The afternoon there’s SUP lesson and river tour from the hotel’s very own wake park. Later, you’ll explore the historic centre of Viana do Castelo with your tour leader. Dinner is at a traditional Portuguese restaurant in town, which is payable locally.

Today brings more opportunities to enjoy the hotel’s facilities. A reinvigorating yoga class and a treatment at the hotel’s spa are included. Choose from a relaxing facial or an exfoliation. Or, if surfing and biking have demanded it, a sports massage might be needed!The rest of the day is yours to choose other optional activities from the hotel’s impressive roster. Wakeboarding, kitesurfing and bodyboarding are popular, or you might fancy a bit more surfing or biking. Maybe a snooze, or another session in the spa is what you’ll be craving. It’s up to you.Dinner is included at the hotel tonight. 

After a final breakfast, you’ll check out of FeelViana and head to Porto. Your tour leader will arrange a short orientation to help you get to know the city. You’ll be shown around the enchanting streets and medieval lanes, passing by the city’s most notable monuments. The tour finishes at the lovely riverside area of Ribeira. Then the bus will take you to the airport for 2pm, ready for your flight home. Be sure to book a flight that departs after 4pm so you can join the Porto tour.