The N222 in northern Portugal is a road of extremes. While it officially spans a much longer distance, the specific 27-kilometer stretch between Peso da Régua and Pinhão has earned international acclaim. In 2015, a global car rental company scientifically mapped roads for their cornering ratio, scenic appeal, and driving joy, declaring this exact stretch of the N222 as the best driving road in the world.
The Route and Scenery
This section of the N222 tightly follows the southern bank of the Douro River. The engineering of the road is exceptional, carving a smooth, rolling path into the steep valley walls. On one side, you have the wide, dark waters of the Douro; on the other, near-vertical schist terraces hand-carved over centuries to support the vines that produce Port wine.
Highlights Along the Way
Peso da Régua
The starting point for the scenic stretch, Régua is the commercial hub of the valley. Before setting off, visiting the Museu do Douro provides excellent context on how the extreme landscape was tamed by generations of farmers to create this unique microclimate.
The Quintas
Along the route, you will pass entrance gates to famous "Quintas" (wine estates). Many sit high above the road, requiring steep ascents up narrow driveways. The effort is rewarded with panoramic views that truly convey the scale of the valley.
Pinhão
The terminus of the famous stretch is a small, sleepy town dominated by historic port houses. Do not miss the local railway station, which is decorated with stunning blue azulejo tiles depicting the historical grape harvest.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Breathtaking, dramatic scenery; perfectly maintained road surface; an incredibly engaging drive with rhythmic cornering.
- Cons: Very short distance (the prime stretch is over in 30 minutes if you do not stop); can be intimidating for nervous drivers due to the proximity to the river edge.
Practical Driving Info
Despite being a world-famous road, the N222 remains fundamentally a rural transit route. You will encounter tour buses and locals driving at brisk paces. There are several designated viewpoints (miradouros) where you can safely pull over—use these rather than stopping on the narrow shoulder. If you are prone to vertigo or motion sickness, ensure you drive cautiously, as the drop-offs to the river can be steep in certain sections.