Vila Nova Foz Coa via the N222

Today, since we are staying a second night at Pacheca the plan was a 200 mile loop ride around the region taking in the Douro valley and beyond. Steve and a few others decided to have the day off the bike and head in to Pinhao on the train and visit some more wineries. Others decided to ride the 200 with our tour leader as planned. I decided to ride a shorter distance with a late start and earlier finish out to Vila Nova De Foz Coa along the Douro along the N222 and visit the Cos Valley Archaeological Park and Museum.

After grabbing a few Pastel Dr Nata (Portuguese custard tarts) and nicking a napkin from the hotel breakfast, I set off along the Douro  from Pesua de Rega toward Pinhao then up and over the N222 along the valley of a thousand vineyards I remembered from last time. This time I continued along the N222 and despite a little mist and light rain I soon settled into a great ride up and over the hills between the two sides of the Douro valley. 

Some years ago when touring the area with Lindsay we took a similar route but missed out Foz Coa after diverting toward Salamanca. However, I had since read the Archeological park was worth a visit to see the cave etchings left by pre-historic man, and to see the confluence of two rivers and the wonderful  natural environment out there. The N222 had been billed as one of the best motorcycle roads yet on the way I found a narrow road leading off the main road so decided to take a ride up there to find the most wonderful stretch of minor road snaking around the pass between the valleys.

I could now see a  castle on top of the hill (Castle of Numão) in the distance and an amazing view across. I stopped the engine and removed my helmet and ear plugs just to sample the peace up here. Later I came across the Rio Coa and stoped again for a look across the bridge before heading around Foz Coa and out to the museum.  I'm so impressed with the scenery and the sheer amount of vineyards and Olive trees as far as the eye can see.  Eventually I came across the very strange looking Museum, built out of concrete blocks. At first I couldn't work out where the entrance was. Using my empty panniers to store my bike gear I entered museum to see replicas of the cave engravings and other exhibits like different types of flint used by pre-historic man as well as other artefacts left behind nearby.  Quite informative but marred slightly by the audio translation to English device failing to work properly. Never mind, good to visit and see the exhibits and seeing where the two rivers meet and surrounding scenery made up for it. Before leaving and starting back I tucked in to the de Nastas stored in my tank bag that survived the 60 mile journey well. 

Nice little ride on my own at a leisurely pace, yet having some fun too, I have to agree about the N222. It really is a cracking road  and must be ridden while on the Douro 👍.