PINHÃO

Much of the draw of Pinhão to the visitor is the journey here. The road between Peso de Regua to Pinhão has been proclaimed as the best drive in the world. A Daily Mail article acclaimed the N222 as having "17 miles, 93 bends and breathtaking views of the Douro Valley". The train journey here too has been heralded as one of the most picturesque in the world. Both routes follow the course of the river as it winds its way through the terrace cut hills. Another popular way to arrive in Pinhão is by boat. Several tour operators depart from either the Ribeira in Porto or Vila Nova da Gaia. You can also take a boat trip once you're in Pinhão, various tour companies run 1 - 2 hour boat tours upstream.

If you have visited a Port lodge in Porto a day trip here is the next logical step to obtain a more immersive understanding of Port and Douro DOC wine. The soils and climate here are perfect for growing grapes. Many of the best-known producers have Quintas here and now have visitor centres.

Pinhão is a small place. The limited number of eateries can get busy at lunchtime, especially those on the riverfront. There are, however, picnic tables in a shaded area on the pier's edge.

Pinhão Railway Station

Although not unique in Portugal, the tiled panels at Pinhão train station are certainly a fine example and the best on the Douro line. The 19th-century railway station received its azulejo panels in 1937. A total of 3047 individual tiles make up 24 panels which depict the various stages of Port production. From the grape harvest to the transport by Rabelo boats down the Douro River to the cellars in Vila Nova of Gaia.

Pinhão Bridge

The iron bridge crossing the Douro in Pinhão was completed in 1906. It is reputed to have been designed by the famous architect Gustave Eiffel. The metal deck and three 69-metre spans is an awesome sight as it traverses the river. On the other side is the Quinta das Carvalhas where Real Companhia Velha has a shop and tasting room.

When the line first opened in 1887, it was an engineering marvel as it follows the course of the river. Up through the dramatic landscapes of the Alto Douro where vineyards are carved into terraces from the living bedrock. Although the branch lines have closed, the Linha do Douro is still very impressive and a great way to spend a day. Regular trains leave São Bento and Campanhã and pass 20 tunnels, 30 bridges and 34 stations. The line becomes more dramatic after the town of Régua on to the pretty wine towns of Pinhão (one of the most beautiful railway stations in Portugal), Tua and terminating at Pocinho, (close to the Cão Valley rock art).

A picturesque steam train runs along the Linha do Douro on Saturdays from June to October. The steam locomotive with five historical carriages run the distance between Régua and Tua. You can just buy the Douro Historical Train journey, or you can choose to buy a Combined Package.

Train Timetable | Comboios de Portugal Website