Satellite map of Douro Valley

Vila Real · Portugal

Douro Valley

N222Peso da Régua to Pinhão

Distance16.1 mi26 km
Drive time32 minon the road
DifficultyDemandingtightness 5 of 10
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Voted the world’s best driving road, through terraced vineyards above the Douro.

The N222 between Peso da Régua and Pinhão hugs the Douro through the world’s oldest demarcated and regulated wine region, its bends laid out above terraces of vines that tumble to the river. Once voted the best driving road on earth, it is a flowing, sun-drenched joy, pause at a quinta, but keep your eyes on the camber.

Crowned the world’s best driving road in a much-cited study. The N222 traces the terraced Douro wine valley above the river, corner after sweeping corner.

Why we picked it

Scenery

Valley

Best seasons

SpringSummerAutumn

In these collections

In these guides

Where it runs16.1 mi · point to point

Peso da RéguaStart · Vila Real
PinhãoEnd · Vila Real

Character

Corners40bends
Tightness5of 10
Max gradient8%≈ 1-in-13
Climb249 mtotal ascent
Summit111.9 mhighest point of the line · 367 ft

Corners

busiest around mile 13
4812 mi

Elevation

under 4%4–8%over 8%45 – 111.9 m
5075100 m 0816 mi

From the road

Points of interest2 stops

  • Varanda para o DouroViewpoint
    6.9 mi in
  • Vista sobre o DouroViewpoint
    7.3 mi in

Hazards

  • Drops to the river
  • Slow vineyard and tourist traffic
  • Heat haze in summer

Sources

Verified route: mapped from real road geometry and fact-checked by a human editor. How roads get checked

Driving the Douro Valley: quick answers

How long does it take to drive the Douro Valley?
Douro Valley runs 16.1 miles (26 km) and takes about 32 min to drive without stops.
How difficult is the Douro Valley to drive?
We rate it demanding: 40 corners, a maximum gradient of 8%, and a tightness of 5 out of 10.
When is the best time to drive the Douro Valley?
Spring and Summer and Autumn are best.

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