In Portugal, there is a wide variety of panoramic landscapes, especially in the mountainous and coastal regions, as these are higher points of elevation and therefore have a wider field of vision. As the Douro is one of Portugal's most beautiful and fascinating regions, due to its vineyards, steep mountains, winding rivers and picturesque villages it is a popular tourist destination for those who appreciate nature and culture.
The panoramic landscapes in addition to incredible views of landscapes and panoramas, allow people to observe the cities and natural beauty in a privileged way and feel truly part of it.
Here are 10 panoramic landscapes you must visit in the Douro:
1. São Salvador do Mundo viewpoint
Situated at an altitude of 623 metres, this viewpoint offers beautiful views of vineyards, almond trees in bloom and the Douro River as its root and identity. From here we can see the Barragem da Valeira and the historic Cachão da Valeira which is famous for being the place of death of the Baron of Forester.
Located in the heart of the first demarcated wine region of the world where the famous Port Wine was born and centre of the most prestigious wines worldwide, this viewpoint is a landmark for those who visit São João da Pesqueira.
2. Serra da Boneca Viewpoint
In Penafiel we can find the Miradouro da Boneca, which is located at 725 metres and offers a breathtaking view. It is a very visited place by people who like to seek adrenaline to explore new trails or by those who enjoy the tranquillity while letting themselves be rocked by the landscape in a famous swing of the Sebolido region.
3. Nossa Senhora dos Remédios Viewpoint
This viewpoint is in Lamego, at the top of a staircase of 686 steps. It offers an incredible view of the city of Lamego, its churches, monuments and endless succession of slopes torn into terraces.
Ideal for those who are passionate about the Douro Valley region and everything it holds, because in this city, besides the view, you can also taste divine wines accompanied by the best snacks from the North of Portugal.
4. Samodães Viewpoint
At 670 metres also from the city of Lamego we find the Samodães Belvedere, where the marriage between the city and the Douro River proves to be perfect. This is the ideal place to watch the sunset among the steep mountains.
5. Casal de Loivos Viewpoint
It is in the small village situated on the slopes of the Douro River, Casal de Loivos, that we find one of the most famous vineyard viewpoints. The vineyards and the railway bridge over the waters of the Douro are the central elements of the viewpoint of those who contemplate this landscape.
6. Côa Museum Viewpoint
The Côa Museum Viewpoint, situated on the banks of the Côa River, offers an incredible view of the Côa Valley and the cave paintings of the region, considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a perfect place for those who are passionate about history and archaeology.
7. Adorigo Viewpoint
Adorigo viewpoint located at 620 metres, in the Serra do Reboredo, is great for those seeking a more challenging experience, as the climb up to the site can be a little difficult. However, the panoramic views of the Douro Valley and the surrounding mountains make the effort worthwhile.
8. Catapeixe Viewpoint
In Castelo de Paiva you can explore the Catapeixe Viewpoint. It is situated at an altitude of 600 metres and is a popular place to picnic and observe magnificent natural features.
9. Teixeirô Viewpoint
In the Montemuro Mountains, in Cinfães, there is another incredible viewpoint that we leave as a recommendation for those looking for nooks and crannies in small Portuguese towns.
It is a lesser known belvedere, but one that does not leave its visitors indifferent.
10. Quinta do Crasto Viewpoint
This belvedere is on the property of Quinta do Crasto, which means that besides being presented with yet another perspective of the Douro wine-growing mountains, you may also get to know a farm that produces high-quality wines.
Regardless of the reason that leads you to visit any of these enigmatic panoramic landscapes, you can be sure that each one of them offers a unique and special experience, as each one hides a different prism of the Douro and the secrets it hides.