Pinhao: The Heart of the Douro Valley

Pinhão is the heart of the Douro wine country: a small riverside village surrounded by steep terraced vineyards and some of the most famous port quintas. It has a tiled train station, river boats and spectacular viewpoints. Here’s how to spend a day or two in Pinhão.

Quick answer: get to Pinhão by the scenic train from Porto’s São Bento (about 2.5 hours) or by car. See the azulejo-covered station, take a short boat trip on the river, visit a quinta for a tasting, and drive or taxi up to the Casal de Loivos viewpoint. Stay overnight to enjoy the valley at its quietest. See places to stay in Pinhão.

Things to do

• The train station: decorated with blue-and-white tile panels showing the Douro landscape and the grape harvest.
• River boat trips: one- or two-hour trips on traditional-style boats leave from the riverside. See Douro cruises.
• Quinta visits: several famous port houses have estates around Pinhão, many with tours and tastings. Book ahead.
• Casal de Loivos viewpoint: one of the most famous views of the Douro, high above the village.
• The N222 road towards Régua, a celebrated driving road. See the best road trips.
• The harvest: in September, join a harvest experience. See wine tours in Portugal.

Getting there

• Train: the Douro line from Porto São Bento via Régua, following the river. Sit on the right-hand side heading east for river views.
• Car: about 2 hours from Porto.
• Tour: most Douro day tours from Porto stop in or near Pinhão. See small-group Douro tours.

Where to stay

Choose between riverside hotels in the village and quintas in the vineyards. See the best Douro Valley hotels.

Tips

• Designated driver: tastings add up, so consider a tour or a taxi.
• Summer heat: the valley gets very hot in July and August.
• Winter: see the Douro in winter.

More: the Douro Valley itinerary, Peso da Régua and the port wine guide.

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