Opting to travel to the Douro Valley without a car presents a good opportunity to explore the region and potentially spend a day or two immersed in its beauty.
In fact, travelling without a car might be an easier way to explore Douro for those who want to relax and avoid the steep roads of the Douro Valley. Besides, it is a greener way to travel.
You’ll discover hotels conveniently situated close to the train stations along the Douro train line. These accommodations are easily accessible either by foot or via a short taxi ride.
Additionally, certain hotels may offer a pickup service from the train station upon request. Just ask the staff.
Many clients going by train or car to the Douro Valley ask me whether they can get on a wine tour in the Douro Valley. Yes, there are wine tours originating in Douro. Usually, the start in Pinhão or in Régua. A private wine tour will pick you up from your accommodation in Porto or in the Douro Valley.
Where to stay in the Douro Valley without a car?
Hotels Near Pinhão Train Station
The Vintage House Hotel
The Vintage House, an elegant classical hotel with the views of the Douro river, nice pool, and a restaurant.
The hotel is only steps away from the Pinhão train station. In fact, one of the hotel doors is located just off the train platform. The cozy Library bar of the Vintage House is the best place to enjoy a glass of port as you are waiting for your train to Porto.
The hotel is also facing the riverwalk and docks where you can get on a cruise up the Douro river.
The hotel is close to the center of Pinhão and all the amenities including shops, bars, and restaurants.
There are several wineries that you can visit on foot or on a short taxi ride from this hotel. Walk a few hundred meters to Quinta do Bomfim or enjoy a riverside hike to Quinta do Roêda.
Dois Lagares House
Dois Lagares House is a small guesthouse just 500 meters from Pinhão.
As you exit the train station, walk left along the street, cross the bridge over the Pinhão river, a tributary of Douro, then turn right, walk a few minutes to reach the house on a somewhat busy road. If you are travelling with luggage, a taxi might be a better choice.
The guesthouse features a simple yet modern style with spacious and comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and great river views. Despite being by the roadside, Dois Lagares has a peaceful atmosphere.
Dois Lagares is part of local wine project. Staying here allows you to explore the nearby vineyards of Quinta de Santo Antonio and enjoy a wine tasting experience with the winemaker.
LBV House Hotel
The LBV House stands for Late Bottled Vintage House. This is a nice clean in hotel in Pinhão with great views, modern rooms and an infinity pool. I definitely recommend asking for a room facing the river.
The hotel is located uphill from Pinhão. If you are travelling with luggage, take a quick and cheap taxi ride from the Pinhão train station. You can then explore the area by foot. Walk down to the town of Pinhão or climb to Casal de Loivos viewpoint.
Quinta de La Rosa
Quinta de La Rosa is one of my favourite places to stay in Douro.
Just in 15-20 minutes walk from Pinhão, you will be by the river in a wine estate with excellent wines and ports.
When staying at Quinta de la Rosa, it is easy to join one of their wine tours and tastings.
Besides, there are two nice restaurants at the estate. Cozinha da Clara is a bit more formal, while Tim’s Terrace is a relaxed place for a pizza or a burger.
The winery also offers lunches with wine tastings. This estate also has an interesting beer project.
Casa de Casal de Loivos
If you are up for serious hike or do not mind staying a bit far up the hill, check out this hotel in the village of Casal de Loivos.
You can also get there by taxi from the Pinhão train station.
This is another favourite in the area. You will be in a quiet local place with some of the most amazing views on Earth.
The house is a historical estate with a terrace and a swimming pool overlooking the valley. You are steps away from the famous Casal de Loivos viewpoint.
Very close by there is a small winery Quinta do Jalotto and an old olive oil mill and museum D’Origem that holds wine and olive oil tastings on a terrace with fantastic views.
Near Ferrão Train Station
Quinta Nova de Nossa Senhora de Carmo
Quinta Nova de Nossa Senhora do Carmo is located uphill from the Ferrão train station, the one before Pinhão.
It is a luxurious place to stay in the valley. Quinta Nova gives a chance to experience the atmosphere of a large Portuguese family home, with views over the stunning scenery. You will stay next to the original 1764 winery, with unique views over the historic vine terraces that house the various buildings, including a small chapel.
Besides a wide program of wine tastings available here, you can view a nice wine museum located in the property.
The hotel staff will pick you up from the Ferrão train station. To complement your stay and wine experience at Quinta Nova, visit Maçanita Vinhos nearby one of my favourite wineries in Douro.
