Tuesday 10th September

We made our way towards Porto. The day was a winding road snaking along the south bank of the river Douro through vistas of terraced vines that slowly gave way to pines and eucalyptus forests the nearer we got to Porto, although this 120km leg took 4 hours, it proved to be an enjoyable scenic feast.

Wednesday 11th September

Took the local bus into the city from the campsite for a walk around Porto. This place is a visual treat with a mix of baroque, roccoco and art nouveau architecture set against decaying buildings and cobbled lanes rise up from the north bank of the river.

Livraria Lello

Harry Potter set with wizard

The town is best seen from the south bank side in Vila Nova de Gaia after a short walk across the Ponte de Dom Luis 1, yet another creation from the Gustav Eiffel stable, this one was the work of one of his students.

Ponte de Dom Luis I

Bridge jumpers

Grand Central with tiles

Exterior Igreja do Carmo with tiles

Old lady watching street life

View from Vila Nova de Gaia

Douro Port barcos

The English had their sticky fingers on this town in the 15th century when British wine merchants were forbidden to trade with the French as is evidenced by Sandeman's, Taylor’s and Graham's Port warehouses in Vila Nova de Gaia.