Planet Cork — Attraction in Vila Nova de Gaia

Planet cork was very insightful. I had no idea that cork was such a versatile and powerful material. From applications in architecture to aerospace to furniture and fashion, the possibilities are truly endless. I developed a deep appreciation for Portugal and its cork industry. The cork oak is an amazing tree but requires patience to harvest the best cork, nearly 43 years for the third harvest which produces the best quality cork. Anyways, you must see for yourself. After the museum we visited the cork shop where Flavia was very kind and helpful. She answered all of our questions about cork wallets, hats and purses. We walked away with some good products and are delighted to support the museum and Portugal’s cork industry. Now off to get some...

I had a great time exploring the Planet Cork at the World of Wine Museum and learning all about cork! The exhibit took a little under an hour when reading everything, but it would probably take 10 minutes to just see the highlights. I especially enjoyed learning about the sustainable farming of cork oak trees and the forests they grow in. The gift shop at the end was cool with a lot of nice products, ranging from just a few euros to over hundred. Average price is probably €25. The attendant, Sara, was super nice and helpful! Cork is such a unique material with a fascinating history, and a big future. Anyone visiting Portugal should learn about it as much as they can. Definitely a good way to...

A museum about cork might not immediately seem the most exciting prospect, but this is a fascinating and engaging place. Portugal is the world’s largest cork producer, and this museum explores the part cork oaks play in the ecosystem as well as the process of harvesting and cork production. The lower level is devoted to this and how corks are used in the wine industry, while the upper floor looks at other uses of cork (it’s a bit over the top with the propaganda, but fun). I spent more than an hour playing and learning here, and came away feeling I’d been educated...