Barca d'Alva Cruises, Portugal

Docking at Barca d’Alva puts you right on the cusp of the Spanish border. This nature-rich spot on the banks of Portugal’s Douro River is thick with groves of almond and olive trees, vineyards and plenty of orchards, too. During the Spring, there’s a festival here to celebrate the pink and white flowers produced by the almond tree in full bloom, with craft markets that draw in villagers from surrounding towns. Out of season, there’s plenty for nature enthusiasts to explore with the International Douro Natural Park at your fingertips. The area’s a bird watcher’s paradise with rare species like the Egyptian vulture, royal eagle and Eurasian golden oriole all circling its skies.