The Rota dos Vinhos do Dão stands as a fundamental institution in promoting wine tourism in the Demarcated Region of Dão, Portugal.

With a history that dates back over a century, specifically to the formalisation of the region as demarcated in 1908, this wine route invites exploration of a rich and diverse legacy.

The Dão area, known for its elegant and high-quality wines, has been the home of viticulture long before the formation of the Portuguese nationality, reflecting the influence of the various cultures that have inhabited the Iberian Peninsula.

The distinction of the region not only lies in its history and its prestigious wines, which were already being exported to France and Brazil in the 19th century, but also in the presence of major producers who have been able to combine tradition and innovation.

The Rota dos Vinhos do Dão, established in 1995, has played a crucial role in reintroducing wine tourism as a driver of innovation and development for the wines of this region, promoting not just the beverage but also the exploitation of the area’s tourist potential.

Enotourism proposal of the Rota dos Vinhos do Dão

The enotourism proposal of the Rota dos Vinhos do Dão is rich and varied, offering visitors an immersive experience in the region’s wine culture.

With 48 adherents covering the 16 municipalities from Arganil to Aguiar da Beira, the route invites discovery of the diversity of landscapes, manorial houses, ancestral and modern cellars, historic villages, and rivers of crystal-clear waters that characterise the Dão.

The routes are carefully organised into five itineraries that highlight the uniqueness of each area, from the Terras de Viseu to the Terras de Serra da Estrela, allowing visitors to explore the variety and richness of the Dão’s vitivinicultural heritage.

This initiative seeks not only to promote the region’s wines but also to enrich the tourist experience for those who embark on this journey.

The integration of general, physical, human, and organisational conditions ensures that each adherent offers a high standard of safety, comfort, accessibility, and hospitality. Since its inauguration in 1998, the Rota has evolved, increasing its number of adherents and refining its proposal to offer a complete and high-quality enotouristic experience.

A focus on tradition and innovation

The Rota dos Vinhos do Dão is not only concerned with presenting the region’s wine legacy but also places great emphasis on the innovation and sustainability of its practices. The renewal of the route in 2015, with a new visual identity and the opening of a Welcome Centre, demonstrates a commitment to adaptation and modernisation.

This blend of respect for tradition and a look towards the future is what makes the Rota dos Vinhos do Dão a unique enotouristic destination, capable of attracting both wine enthusiasts and those interested in Portuguese history and culture.

We invite all professionals and wine enthusiasts to learn more about the Rota dos Vinhos do Dão at the upcoming edition of FINE #WineTourism Marketplace, to be held on the 13th and 14th of March 2024.

This will be a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the Rota’s enotourism proposal and discover first-hand the secrets that make Dão an exceptional vitivinicultural region.