Lamego: The Baroque Staircase Sanctuary

Lamego, just south of the Douro, is famous for one of Portugal’s most spectacular sights: a baroque zigzag staircase of 686 steps, decorated with tiles and fountains, climbing to the hilltop sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios. Here’s how to visit.

Quick answer: Lamego is about 15 minutes’ drive from Peso da Régua and 1.5 hours from Porto. Climb the staircase to the sanctuary (or drive to the top and walk down), see the cathedral and the castle, and taste sparkling wine. It’s easy to combine with a Douro trip. See places to stay in Lamego.

The sanctuary and staircase

The Santuário de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios sits at the top of a monumental baroque staircase with landings decorated with azulejos, statues and fountains. The view from the top looks straight down the avenue into town. In late August and early September, it’s the focus of one of northern Portugal’s biggest pilgrimages and festivals.

More in Lamego

• The cathedral: with a Romanesque tower and a baroque interior.
• The castle: a small medieval keep with views.
• The museum of art and tapestries.
• Sparkling wine: the region is known for espumante, with cellars offering tours.
• Bola de Lamego: a bread stuffed with meat, the local speciality.

Nearby

• Peso da Régua and the Douro. See Régua.
• Ucanha: a medieval fortified bridge in a nearby village.
• Quintas along the river. See the Douro itinerary.

Tips

• Walk down, not up: drive or take a taxi to the sanctuary and walk down the staircase.
• Heat: visit early or late in summer.
• Combine: Lamego, Régua and a quinta make a perfect day.

More: Douro Valley hotels, the most beautiful small towns and the historic villages of Portugal.

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