Why this road
This is often called one of the best driving roads in the world, and for once that is not an exaggeration. The road hugs the river in a long series of curves, with terraces stacked up the hills on both banks and white quintas between the vines. Here the scenic road is also the quickest one, so there is no reason to take any other.
The route
- APeso da Régua
Start in the old port wine town on the river. Cross to the south bank and pick up the N222 heading east.
- 1Folgosa
The road runs right along the water here, with the steepest terraces rising on the far bank.
- 2Quinta do Tedo
A wine estate at the mouth of the Tedo river, right by the road, with tastings and a terrace over the Douro.
- BPinhão
Cross the bridge into the village. The railway station is decorated with blue tile panels showing the grape harvest.
Stops worth it
A tasting with a river view. Opening times and tastings vary, book or check ahead.
The tiled station, a walk along the river and boat trips upstream. Several quintas around the village offer tastings.
Light and the best time
You drive east with the river on your left. The terraces on the north bank face south and are in sun most of the day, but the late afternoon is the best: the sun is low behind you and turns the terraces golden. Leave Régua around 4:30 pm and you reach Pinhão in the warm light. In the morning you drive into the sun and the valley is often hazy or misty.
Late April to June and September to October. The harvest usually runs from mid-September to early October, when the valley is at its busiest and most beautiful. July and August are very hot. The road is open all year.
By vehicle
The perfect speed and the perfect setting: gentle curves, river air and terraces all around.
Flowing curves and good tarmac. Short, so add the climbs up to the viewpoints around São João da Pesqueira or Casal de Loivos.
Easy driving. The roads up to the quintas can be steep and narrow, take it slowly.
Fine on the N222. The small roads up into the vineyards are not suited to large campers.
Good to know
No toll on the N222; only the motorways in the region are tolled. Tastings at the quintas usually need booking. Portugal has strict drink-driving limits, so plan a driver or stay the night. Fuel up in Régua. In summer, start early or late to avoid the midday heat.
Route checked against OpenStreetMap on 2 November 2026. Roads, closures and rules change: always check before you go and follow local signs.
Questions
How long is the N222 from Régua to Pinhão?
About half an hour of driving without stops. With a tasting and a walk in Pinhão, plan at least half a day.
Is the N222 really one of the best roads in the world?
It is often named as one, and the mix of river, curves and terraces makes it easy to see why. It is short, so take your time.
When is the grape harvest in the Douro?
Usually from mid-September to early October, depending on the year.
Can I visit quintas without booking?
Some accept walk-ins, but most prefer a booking, especially in harvest season. Check ahead.