National Road 222: Portugal's Most Beautiful Drive
National Road 222: Named the World's Most Beautiful Road
National Road 222 was named the world's most beautiful road by Condé Nast Traveler in 2015. This recognition may seem hyperbolic to those who have never driven it, but becomes entirely justified at the very first kilometre of driving along the Douro River. The EN222 follows the Douro between Régua and Pinhão through a succession of bends, climbs and descents that alternate perspectives over the river, the terraced vineyards and the villages clinging to the hillsides as if afraid to slide into the water below.
The most famous stretch — approximately 25 kilometres between Régua and Pinhão — can be driven in 45 minutes without stopping, but to do so would mean missing everything that makes it special. Plan at least 3 to 4 hours to enjoy it properly, stopping at the viewpoints, visiting a quinta or two and having lunch in one of the villages along the way.
Why the EN222 is the World's Most Beautiful Road
The greatness of the EN222 lies not in its engineering or its speed — it is a narrow, two-lane road with many bends. Its beauty lies in the relationship between the road and the landscape it traverses. At every bend a new perspective opens: the river glittering below, the vineyards climbing geometrically up the hillsides in terraces that Romans began building 2,000 years ago, the wine estates with their stone cellars, the granite villages with their bell towers. In September and October, with the golden vines laden with grapes on the eve of the harvest, the EN222 is simply unforgettable.
The Main Stretch: Régua to Pinhão
The most famous and most driven stretch of the EN222 links Régua to Pinhão along the north bank of the Douro. Departing from Régua, the road immediately heads east with the Douro always to the right. Vineyards crowd both sides of the road, wine estates succeed each other on every straight and the river widens and narrows with the rhythm of the dams. There are at least 6 to 8 mandatory stopping points on this 25-km stretch.
Best Stops along the EN222
Casal de Loivos Viewpoint
The most iconic stop. A few kilometres from Pinhão, a side road climbs to the Casal de Loivos viewpoint, with a panoramic view over the vineyards and river that many consider the finest in the Douro. The detour takes about 15 minutes by car from the EN222 and is worth every second.
Quinta do Crasto
Quinta do Crasto, with its dominant position on a hilltop with river views on both sides, is one of the most photographed estates in the Douro. It accepts visits with advance booking.
Pinhão and Its Azulejo Station
The endpoint of the main stretch — the village of Pinhão with its famous azulejo-tiled railway station. Most drivers make a longer stop here for lunch, a station visit and possibly a boat back to Régua along the river.
How to Combine the EN222 with Other Experiences
EN222 + Return River Cruise
One of the most popular combinations: drive the EN222 from Régua to Pinhão (45 min to 2h depending on stops), spend the afternoon in Pinhão and return to Régua by afternoon river cruise (approximately 2h by boat). This way you see the Douro from two completely different angles — road and river.
EN222 + Return Train
Another excellent combination: drive the EN222 from Régua to Pinhão and return by train. The Douro Line between Pinhão and Régua passes through the valley with completely different perspectives from the road.
Practical Tips for Driving the EN222
- Best time: Early morning (before 9am) or late afternoon (after 5pm) for best light and less traffic.
- Best season: April–May (green vines, flowers) or September–October (harvest, golden colours).
- Traffic warning: In summer and September, especially at weekends, the EN222 can be busy. Avoid August weekends if possible.
- Fuel up in Régua before setting off — there are few petrol stations along the route.
Frequently Asked Questions about the EN222
How long does it take to drive the EN222?
The Régua–Pinhão stretch is about 25 km and takes 45 minutes without stops. With stops at viewpoints, quintas and villages, plan 3 to 4 hours. For the full EN222 from Régua to Barca d'Alva, reserve a full day.
Is the EN222 suitable for motorhomes or large vehicles?
The Régua–Pinhão stretch is reasonably accessible for normal vehicles. However, there are tight bends and some narrow sections. Large motorhomes may struggle in places. Normal vehicles up to a medium SUV are fine.
Can I drive the EN222 by motorbike?
A motorbike is one of the best ways to experience the EN222 — riders access perspectives that cars cannot and the sense of freedom on the road is maximised. Always wear appropriate protective gear.
Are there guided tours of the EN222?
Yes, several companies organise EN222 tours from Porto, Régua or Pinhão by jeep, motorbike or car, some including quinta stops with wine tastings. Check available Douro experiences.
Is there a toll on the EN222?
No. The EN222 is a national road without tolls. The only costs are fuel and any parking at quintas or restaurants.