8-Day / 7-Night Moderate

From your point of arrival, use the public transport information we provide to make the journey to vibrant Porto, famed for its rich history, striking architecture, and world-renowned Port wine. Nestled along the Douro River, its colourful old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, brimming with charm and character.

This morning you have the freedom to explore more of Porto at your own pace. Wander the cobbled streets of the Ribeira waterfront, admire the iconic azulejo-tiled facades, visit some of the city’s many cultural attractions or relax with a coffee by the river. When you’re ready, make your way to São Bento Railway Station to board your train to the Douro Valley (duration: 2h30, payable locally). Be sure to check the timetable in advance as tickets can be purchased at the station or online.

Your train journey is widely regarded as one of the most scenic rail routes in Europe, passing through 26 tunnels and crossing 30 bridges, with stunning views of vineyard-covered hillsides sweeping down to the banks of the Douro River through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Douro Valley.

Starting from the charming waterfront town of Pinhão, the route winds upward through terraced vineyards, passing the famous Quinta de Bomfim and the welcoming Quinta do Jalloto winery, before reaching the hilltop village of Casal de Loivos and its spectacular Miradouro, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the world. The route continues along the ridge of Portela da Serra through the UNESCO-listed Alto Douro Vinhateiro, before descending through ancient vineyard paths to the village of Vilarinho de Cotas, with stunning views throughout the return to Pinhão. An optional 5km (+300m) loop is also available for those wishing to extend the day.

Starting from the spectacular Miradouro de Casal de Loivos, the route descends through the village before climbing gradually across rolling hills lined with vines and dotted with small rural settlements. The trail passes the Avessada Enoteca, home to the local wine museum, before continuing uphill through the surrounding vineyards and along quiet cobblestone lanes into the charming village of Favaios, home to the famous Bread and Wine Museum. Then, follow rural paths into the heart of Alijó and finish beside the monumental Ancient Plane Tree of Alijó.

Leaving the charming village of Favaios, home to the famous Bread and Wine Museum, the route winds through terraced vineyards and woodland on quiet rural paths. The trail passes through the historic village of Sanfins do Douro before a steady climb to the hilltop Santuário da Nossa Senhora da Piedade, the highest point of the day and a superb viewpoint over the Douro Valley. From here, the route continues through woodland and along a scenic cyclepath before a satisfying descent into the historic wine town of Alijó.

Beginning at the spectacular Miradouro de Santa Marinha, with its sweeping views over the Douro and the terraced vineyards of the UNESCO-listed Alto Douro Vinhateiro, the route descends to the Capela de Santa Marinha before winding through the streets of Castedo. Passing the Douro Olive Oil Interpretive Centre on the way out of the village, the trail follows a mix of cobblestone lanes and dirt tracks through the vineyards and olive groves, passing a quiet lake before arriving at the charming village of Granja. Here, the route makes its way into the market town of Alijó, finishing beside the bust of José Rufino.

This is one of the most beautiful and memorable walks in the entire Douro Valley region and one not to be missed. Starting from the historic village of São Mamede de Ribatua, the route climbs through vineyards and olive groves, following preserved stretches of the Calçada Romana toward the ancient hillside village of Safres, with spectacular views over the Tua River. The trail then enters the rugged and atmospheric Fragas Más, where granite cliffs and boulders create the wildest section of the day, before joining the spectacular Passadiços da Ribeira de São Mamede, one of the newest walking attractions in northern Portugal. The wooden boardwalks and riverside paths wind through a dramatic valley landscape of waterfalls, vineyards, olive groves and orange trees alongside the Ribeira de São Mamede. After joining the riverbank trail, the route climbs steadily back through the terraced hillsides, with an optional stop at Quinta Vila Rachel winery, before returning to the village. Transfer back to Pinhão.

Take a train from Pinhão which will bring you to Porto. There are regular flights from Porto Airport as well as bus and train services from Porto to other cities and airports. Your hosts can usually provide the most accurate local details, but if you need additional guidance, our team is happy to help.