We are visiting Portugal this October and starting off in Porto. We would like to travel by train to Duoro Valley, spend one or two nights to see the area, visit some wineries and maybe do a boat cruise. I'm wondering if Pinhao would be the best place to stay in the area? Any suggestions for reasonable lodging would be appreciated.
Posted by
Chicago
654 posts
I have stayed at the Original Douro Hotel in Peso de Regua and can definitely
recommend it. Casually elegant, within walking distance of the train station.
I think the Vintage House in Pinhao would be an excellent choice as well, but
I haven't stayed there.
I suspect that some of the Quinta's that produce wine may also have some
lodging options, but I am not knowledgeable about that.
You may need a car or taxi to get to some of the quintas. Also, make sure the
train schedule lines up with where you want to spend the night and gives you
time to do the things you want to do.
Posted by
Cascais, Portugal
1817 posts
I highly recommend staying in a Quinta, as it’s a unique experience. There are many in varied price ranges. Julie Dawn Fox has an article and recommendations. That’s where I found Quinta de la Rosa in Pinhão and have stayed there twice. You might want to take a look at her article.
Posted by
21 posts
We just returned from an 8-day trip in Northern Portugal. We spent our first three days in Porto, two in the Douro Valley, and three in Guimaraes. Since we did not have a car, we relied on trains, which were very convenient and efficient. From Porto, we rode the train to Pinhao. Sit on the right side of the car as the scenery, after leaving the Porto area, is stunning. We stayed at Quinta De La Rosa, which we enjoyed immensely. Depending on your luggage situation, you can walk from the Pinhao train station (about 20 minutes) or take a taxi (approximately 7 euros). The breakfast at the Quinta was phenomonal. Our room cost approximately $200 per night, which is more than we normally pay, but we were happy we splurged. There are more economical lodging options in Pinhao, including the Hotel Douro located directly across from the train station.
If you like to hike, I highly suggest the walk from Pinhao to Casal de Loivos. It's moderate in difficulty and takes around three hours round-trip. You climb through vineyards along stone walls that provide jaw-dropping views.
From Pinhao we took the train to Guimaraes, changing once in Ermesinde. We were completely charmed by the medieval center of Guimaraes. It is an endless delight of picturesque plazas, narrow cobblestoned streets and atmospheric cafes. Braga makes for a quick, interesting day trip from Guimaraes. We began the day with an Uber to Bom Jesus do Monte, and then a taxi to the bustling center of Braga. The tourist office has an informative map and brochure explaining the city's points of interest.
I'm sure you will enjoy Northern Portugal. We sure did.