The best cycling routes around Santa Marta De Penaguião

The parking area for motorhomes directly on the Douro River

Visiting the Castle of Chaves is worth it because it is, quite literally, the high point of the city—both in altitude and in history. Although "only" the imposing Keep (Torre de Menagem) and parts of the walls remain from the original grand defensive system, a visit is a must for these 4 reasons: 1. The Best View in the City Climbing to the top of the Keep (about 28 meters high) offers an unmatched reward. The Panorama: From there, you have a 360º view over the old rooftops, the Tâmega River winding below, the Roman Bridge, and the Brunheiro and Larouco mountains in the distance. It is the best place to understand the city's geography. 2. The Military Museum (A Journey Across 4 Floors) The tower is not empty. The interior has been transformed into a very interesting Military Museum (and the ticket is almost symbolic, usually costing around €1). As you climb the stairs, you pass through four themed floors showing the evolution of weaponry, from the Middle Ages to World War I. It is fascinating to see armor, swords, and uniforms in an authentic stone setting, which helps you imagine the lives of the soldiers who defended the border there. 3. The Castle Garden The tower is surrounded by a beautifully kept garden, which functions as an open-air museum. It is a peaceful space, full of flowers, where you can see Roman and medieval archaeological pieces displayed on the lawns. It is the ideal spot for a break in the shade after walking through the city. 4. A History of Resistance This castle is a symbol of Portugal's independence. Given its proximity to Spain (only 10 km away), Chaves was always the "Key to the Kingdom." Visiting the castle means standing on ground where countless battles were fought to keep the border safe against Castilian and French invasions. The climb is done via stairs (there is no elevator), but the view from the top makes up for every step. Try to go near the end of the day, when the setting sun hits the stones of the tower and the city below, creating a spectacular golden color.

The station is so run-down that it's almost in working order again. Old railway vehicles (burned-out steam locomotives and old wagons) are scattered around the large grounds. There are also many disused tracks, including turntables. At the end of the station, the former storage sheds have been converted into wine shops and restaurants.

A worthwhile museum, which scores points despite/or because of its very minimalist presentation of the subject matter. At the end, enjoy a port wine on the terrace of the museum's café.

The bridge is really well-made. The view from the bridge is beautiful, even though there's still a lot that could be done with the buildings at the end.

The Duero rises in the Picos de Urbión Mountains in the northern Spanish province of Soria at an altitude of 2,080 meters. It flows through the autonomous community of Castile and León, passing through the cities of Soria, Almazán, Aranda de Duero, Tordesillas, and Zamora. For 112 km, it forms the Spanish-Portuguese border, with the river landscape on both sides located in protected natural parks: Arribes del Duero and Douro Internacional. From here, it flows 213 km into Portugal, passing through the cities of Miranda do Douro, Pinhão, and Peso da Régua, as well as the Alto Douro wine region. The Duero flows into the Atlantic near Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.

The slopes of the Douro are truly spectacular. Stunning landscapes. 👍🥾

Thank you for sharing the spectacular photos.👍