Visiting the Douro Valley in August? Here’s What You Shouldn’t Miss!

If you're planning a trip to the Douro Valley in August, you're in for a treat! This summer month brings more than just warm weather and beautiful vineyard landscapes—it's also a time for unique local festivities and natural phenomena. Here are a few highlights to make your Douro Valley experience even more memorable:

The Oxheart Tomato Festival: A Juicy Celebration

August is all about the Oxheart Tomato in the Douro Valley. Known for its large size, juicy texture, delicate skin, and sweet flavor, this tomato is a local favorite. The region celebrates it with the annual Oxheart Tomato Festival, where vineyards engage in friendly competition. Vineyards compete to see who can grow the best tomatoes and cook the most delicious tomato-based dishes. This year marks the 8th edition of the festival, where entries are judged for both their quality and creativity.

The best way to enjoy an Oxheart tomato? Keep it simple—slice it, sprinkle a little salt, and drizzle with high-quality Douro Valley olive oil. If you want to add a bit more flavor, throw in some chopped onion or fresh basil. It’s a fresh and flavorful experience that showcases the Valley’s local produce at its finest.

Almond Harvest: Tradition in Action

August also signals the start of the almond harvest in the Douro Valley. If you find yourself in the region, especially around Vila Nova de Foz Côa—the almond capital of Portugal—don't be surprised to see locals out in the orchards, using long sticks to shake the almonds from the trees onto tarps laid out below.

Once harvested, the almonds are spread out under the summer sun for two to three weeks to dry. This traditional drying process is essential to ensure the almonds reach their peak flavor, so don’t be in a hurry to snack on them! Witnessing the almond harvest is a wonderful way to connect with the agricultural rhythms that have sustained the Douro Valley for generations.

Perseid Meteor Shower: A Starry Spectacle

Mid-August brings one of nature’s most stunning light shows—the Perseid Meteor Shower. This year, the shower will peak on the night of August 12th to 13th, coinciding with a New Moon, which means minimal light pollution and exceptional stargazing conditions. Far from the city lights, the dark skies of the Douro Valley offer the perfect vantage point. Lay back in the vineyards or countryside, and you could see over 100 meteors per hour—almost two per minute!

Don’t forget to bring a blanket, some snacks, and maybe a glass of local wine. This is the perfect way to end a summer evening in the Valley, soaking in the stillness of the night while watching shooting stars streak across the sky.

Make the Most of Your August Douro Trip

From culinary competitions celebrating the best tomatoes, to witnessing centuries-old agricultural practices, and enjoying one of the most spectacular meteor showers of the year, August in the Douro Valley is a magical time. Whether you're a foodie, a nature enthusiast, or just looking to unwind with a stunning view, the Valley has something special to offer. Don't miss out on these unique experiences!

Safe travels, and enjoy everything this wonderful region has to offer!