Probably one of the most beautiful views of Douro valley
Casal de Loivos viewpoint is, probably, one of the most beautiful views of Douro valley.
The scenic landscape is simply stunning.
About Casal de Loivos
Casal de Loivos is a small parish in the municipality of Alijó, located on the top of the mountain that grow over the village of Pinhão.
To get there from Pinhão you need to take the road to Alijó and then turn to your right after the cemetery. The total distance is 3.6km. But think carefully before going there walking. From Pinhão to Casal de Loivos we are talking about 285m of altitude difference.
What you could see from Casal de Loivos viewpoint
From this high point (407m) you will be able to identify the village of Pinhão. Pinhão is well next to the Douro river, quietly watching the slow running of its waters tamed by the dams of Valeira and Bagaúste. You will see also the bridges that cross the Douro and the Pinhão rivers.
Douro vineyards and winemakers
Also in this margin, on your left and just after the Douro river bridge of Pinhão, you will find two important vineyards. Quinta do Bonfim, owned by the Symington family, which are currently the largest owners of land in Douro valley and Quinta da Roeda from Taylor’s.
Looking directly across, to the opposite bank of the river, you will find Quinta das Carvalhas. Quinta das Carvalhas is owned by Real Companhia Velha, the oldest business of Portugal. On the top of the mountain the famous round house. From this place you could enjoy a beautiful landscape. The only way to go there is using the private green bus of Quinta das Carvalhas. This bus runs between the village of Pinhão and this viewpoint.
Walking in Casal de Loivos
There is much more to see if you had time to make a walk through a pedestrian trail, but unfortunately for most tourists, visiting Casal de Loivos stops here.
This route is not marked and you will need a local knowledgeable guide.
Other Douro Valley viewpoints
As you see this is a viewpoint that you should’t miss. There are others beautiful viewpoints like São Salvador do Mundo, São Leonardo de Galafura, Senhora das Neves, Nagozelo or Viso but you will need more than one day in Douro Valley to see all of them.
