In the days before the locomotives were allocated computerised numbers, the steam locomotives carried brass numberplates on their chimneys, as can be seen in this shot of 4-6-0 number 284 standing at Tua.
Photo Mike Collins

The Douro valley line was constructed in stages by the Caminhos do Ferro Estado Minho e Douro starting in the mid 1870s and reaching Régua by 1880. It was opened throughout in late 1887 but a century later the section east from Pocinho to Barca D'Alva was closed to traffic following the closure of the RENFE's line on to Salamanca.

The pictures in this gallery cover the route east of Ermesinde, the junction with the Minho line on the northern edge of Porto. Due to the number of pictures, a separate gallery has been created for the scenes east of Tua. Click on the link top right to access these.

To view any full size image and caption details please click the maroon button below each thumbnail