7 Douro Viewpoints For Unforgettable Scenery

Much of the Douro wine region’s appeal lies in its remarkable landscape. The so-called ‘river of gold’ winds across the north of Portugal through a seemingly endless series of undulating slopes. In the heart of the Douro Valley, these hills are cultivated to form striped vineyards, while other areas remain rugged and untamed.

To fully appreciate the magnificent Douro Valley scenery, you should aim to visit at least one of the viewpoints. These are usually signposted with brown “Miradouro” signs.

We’ve selected 7 viewpoints you won’t want to miss when visiting the Douro Valley:

 

1. Views from the Côa museum

Another spot that’s worth travelling a little further to reach is the Côa Museum. Not only does the museum provide a fascinating insight into the prehistoric rock art that lies in situ in the surrounding area, but the views are pretty impressive too.

From this vantage point overlooking a bend in the Douro River, with the Côa River branching off to the right, you can see for miles. There’s barely a man-made structure in sight, except for the ancient schist walls of the olive grove below the museum and the ribbons of grapevines on a few of the slopes.

It’s hard to imagine a more perfect spot to relax and savour the local almonds and wine. And thanks to the glass-fronted museum restaurant, you can appreciate them even if the weather isn’t great.

 

2. São Salvador do Mundo viewpoint

On the other side of the Douro River lies the relatively unexplored region of São João da Pesqueira. Despite being one of the most important areas for wine production, most visitors don’t venture this far. Little do they realise they’re missing out on one of the best views in the Douro.

Just a few kilometres from the wine museum in the historical town of São João da Pesqueira, you’ll find São Salvador do Mundo viewpoint. This hilltop has a complex of chapels and caves that make up the largest sanctuary in the Alto Douro wine region and which date back to the 16th century. If you are feeling energetic, you could walk the last kilometre or so and follow the stations of the cross up the hill.

However you arrive at the highest point of 493 metres altitude, the views are spectacular and almost 360º. From one vantage point, you can see the vast Douro River below and the contrast between the wild, rocky slope on one side and the cultivated hillsides opposite.

From another perspective, you’ll see the Valeira Dam and the formerly treacherous stretch of the river known as Cachão da Valeira. Baron Forrester, one of the key players in the history and development of the Douro wine region, died in a boating accident here.

 

3. São Domingos viewpoint

Located near Peso da Régua, this viewpoint also offers a privileged view over the Douro Valley and its vineyards, making it the perfect spot to appreciate the beauty of the region.

From here, you’ll see lands from the Viseu, Vila Real, and Porto districts, with the imposing Serra do Marão right in front of you, acting as a gateway to the Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro regions.

Nearly a thousand years ago, the São Domingos Hermitage was built here, with the earliest reference to this site dating back to AD 1163.

Legend has it that King Afonso V visited this hermitage in 1454 with Queen Isabel, and several years later, his son, João II, and his wife, Queen Leonor, returned to pray for divine intervention in the hope of having a successor. Their prayer was answered, and they came back in late 1483 with their son, Prince Afonso.

As a result, this spot became a significant place for couples struggling with infertility. The legend says that those who slept out in the open on the “fertility stone” would achieve their wish of becoming pregnant. This stone is still located near the sacristy door of the Hermitage.

For centuries, this has been a key site for royal pilgrimages, both during and after the Middle Ages, which is why the municipality of Lamego has embraced this tradition.

 

4. São Leonardo de Galafura Viewpoint

This viewpoint was immortalised by Miguel Torga, one of Portugal’s most remarkable poets and writers of the 20th century, offering unique panoramic views over the Douro Valley. It’s one of the most iconic spots in the region.

It was a must-stop for the poet, who described the landscape in his Diaries as an “excess of nature.” In the area, you’ll find a stone inscribed with an excerpt from his work, where the Douro is a constant presence.

Situated about 600 metres above sea level, the view from Mount São Leonardo over the Douro River, its vineyards, and surrounding mountains is an excellent way to take in the best that the region has to offer.

With a strong connection to the past, this viewpoint is located in the parish of Galafura, a name derived from a Roman settlement once ruled by Governor Galafre. Close to Peso da Régua, you can also enjoy views of Armamar, Sabrosa, Tabuaço, Fontelo, Valença do Douro, and much more.

Here, you’ll also find several Roman wells, some of which are quite deep. This is a viewpoint you absolutely can’t miss if you want to admire the grandeur of the Douro Valley.

 

5. Ujo viewpoint

A lesser-known location, but one that offers a peaceful perspective over the terraced slopes of the Douro Valley, perfect for those looking for a quieter spot to relax and lose themselves in the region’s views.

Situated between the villages of São Mamede de Ribatua and Safres in the Alijó municipality, this viewpoint offers a sublime landscape of the Tua Valley, set within an impressive iron structure designed by architect Henrique Pinto and engineer Filipe Calisto.

Here, you’ll enjoy views of an extensive section of this valley and the current reservoir, making it a place that invites quiet reflection, surrounded by nature’s rare beauty.

 

6. Casal de Loivos viewpoint

Casal de Loivos is a tiny village perched on a hill overlooking the small but popular village of Pinhão in the heart of the Douro Valley. The BBC declared the views from this spot to be among the six best views in the world, so I’m not exaggerating when I use words like spectacular and awe-inspiring to describe them.

From the miradouro terrace, you can see wave after wave of mountains beyond the wide expanse of the Douro River, where you may spot a cruise ship gliding towards the quayside at Pinhão. The slope between the river and where you stand is decorated with geometrical vineyards, rows of olive trees, vegetable plots and houses.

Its sweeping views over the vineyards and the Douro River create an unmissable sensory experience, making it the ideal spot to enjoy a beautiful sunset.

 

7. Nossa Senhora das Neves viewpoint

Located in the municipality of São João da Pesqueira, this viewpoint offers a grand view, allowing you to take in the Douro River, the mouth of the Tua River, olive groves, apple orchards, and picturesque villages, blending natural landscape with history.

Situated around 685 metres above sea level at Alto da Fraga da Bandeira, this spot is home to a small but beautifully unique Baroque chapel dedicated to Nossa Senhora das Neves.

You’ll feel encouraged to engage in outdoor activities, harmoniously connecting with nature in a deep relationship between the environment and heritage.

 

BE SURPRISED AND FALL IN LOVE WITH THE DOURO VALLEY, A REGION THAT COMBINES ITS RICH HISTORY WITH EXTENSIVE NATURAL HERITAGE AND LOCAL CULTURE.
OUR PROGRAMMES INCLUDE TRANSFERS TO THESE VIEWPOINTS SO YOU CAN FULLY ENJOY EVERYTHING NATURE HAS TO OFFER.

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