Here's a trip I've wanted to do since I started the channel. It's the absolutely stunning Douro valley line that follows the river east from Porto to Pocinho. I think after watching this, you will agree this is one of the most magical train journeys you can take anywhere in Europe, maybe even the world.

The line hugs the banks of the Douro through villages and towns with quaint little stations marking off your progress. Either side, the terraced landscape leads you down to the water's edge as the train wends its way through increasingly stunning landscapes.

That would be enough in itself, but the ride takes place in 1940s and 1960s coaches being drawn by an old 1960s diesel locomotive. But this isn't a heritage railway, this is a timetabled daily service from Portugal's railway operator Cambiois de Portugal (CP)

Departure: Porto, Portugal
Destination: Pocinho, Portugal
Distance: 175 km / 109 miles
Duration: 3 hrs 18 mins
Average speed: 53 km/h 33 mph

Cost: Adult return €26,10 / £22.30

Date of Travel: January 2024
Operator: Cambiois de Portugal (CP)
Motive power: Class 1400 diesel loco. Built: Sorefame, Portugal (c1968)

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