Deep in the Douro valley region and hidden away off the usual tourist trail, is the Portuguese city of Vila Real. It is home to the beautiful ‘Casa de Mateus’ — one of the most lavish manor houses in Europe. You might recognise it from the label of the Mateus wine bottle! This stunning 18th Century Palace is one of Portugal’s finest examples of Baroque architecture. It was built at the same time as Mafra Palace, when the elite families in Portugal were inspired to follow suit of the King. Casa de Mateus was turned into a museum after ‘Fundação da Casa de Mateus’ was founded (1970) and the house was opened to the public. Visitors can see the house, chapel, gardens and winery. The house runs regular tours for visitors on the hour every hour, between 11–4pm (with the exception of some Holy days or festivals).
A note about visiting the Museum — sorry to disappoint you, but the usual tours do not include wine tasting for the Mateus rose….if you really want this, you have to arrange it separately or buy it from the souvenir shop opposite! The usual visits are more to do with the house than the wine!
