Hogwarts author’s old home is a gem

Marvelling at our sumptuous spread of breads, cheeses and seafood we were flabbergasted to discover they were merely the starter.

Huge bowls of fresh fish and potatoes were to follow.

For a sweet rustic dining experience the Taberna d’anita offered charming checked tablecloths, tasty traditional dishes and a lovely authentic al fresco supper.

For those with a sweet tooth, pastry shop Leitaria da Quinta do Paço must not be missed.

The eclairs in all flavours and sizes that are the shop’s speciality.

A walk round the historic fish market Mercado do Bolhão, in a spectacular building, is quite an experience – vibrant with haggling sellers and customers.

Our guide told us of spirited arguments between f emale stallholders that ended in them slapping each other with fish.

Visiting Porto, it would be a crime not to have a glass or two of their renowned port wine.

I was intrigued to visit Porto’s an ancient cellars across the river from th the old town and find out what the fu fuss was about. It was fascinating to he hear the history of both the drink an and its origin within the city and to sa sample this fortified wine.

At The Vineyard Estate Quinta d da Roêda the visitors’ centre is h housed in Roêda’s old stables. Here we drank in not only the fine wine itself but the sight of the vast, r rolling vineyards and the stunning

views across the Douro River.

I also tasted my very first glass of green wine – vinho verde – a fizzing drink made from young grapes which is beautifully fresh and light.

Food and drink combine harmoniously at the annual Festival da Comida Continente – Porto’s fun free music, food, and wine event.

Abundant samples of red, white (and of course green) wines, cheeses, and meats were dished out at this lively festival while local and international cuisine was rustled up.

Meanwhile Portuguese pop stars and professional dancers put on an energetic stage show. The festival attracted half a million people in two days despite still being in only its second year.

For night owls the historic city comes alive as the sun goes down and bustling bars a-plenty line the pretty streets.

There’s plenty of time to sip a cocktail outside in the warm night air a and watch the world go by – Porto style. FACTFILE: FA TAP Air Po Portugal has 20 weekly departures from Lo London City and Ga Gatwick to Porto. Pri Prices start at £41 one wa way including all taxes an and surcharges. For fur further information. See www.flytap.com or cal call 0345 601 0932. Als Also see www.visitport uga ugal. com and www. vis visitportoandnorth. trav travel.