Rails in the Douro Part 3 - Ermida to Pala - June/July 2023

My final video of our visit to the Douro Valley during June and July 2023 to catch some more trackside action including the much loved CP 1400 class which were built by English Electric and are similar to British rail class 20's. Part 3 of this series covers the stretch of line from Ermida to Pala. Many thanks to Gary Thomas for organising the trip and working with Pete Hanahoe to find these fantastic locations.

[@fmnut]

Even the units have that retro 80s look, not shaped like they're going to go 3 times their actual max speed

[@fmnut]

That Medway on the cement looks like a crossbreed of a shed and a 67.

[@peterhanahoe4913]

I think that's exactly what it is.

[@HSTHoward]

@@peterhanahoe491367 on steroids essentially

[@SimonTog]

Very nice Phil :)

[@peterhanahoe4913]

Top stuff Mr T,

[@HSTHoward]

Superb video Phil - very lucky to get the 1960 on the cement!

[@PhilThomasTrains]

Apparently it's the last one in Portugal, due to be taken out of service in September according to another linesider we bumped in to.

[@HSTHoward]

@@PhilThomasTrains indeed, I’m surprised it’s lasted this long

[@jackhstproductions649]

Hi I'm going on the Douro in a few days time. Is the 9:20 from Porto Sau Bento a unit or a series 1400 loco? Thanks. Do you know which other departures are usually Units as I want to avoid them at all costs

[@PhilThomasTrains]

An app called "Train Status PT" is a really useful tool. It shows all CP and Medway services including freights. We found it was essential for our visit, as services are a bit thin particularly as both our visits have coincided with industrial action on CP as well. Also it's not unusual for units to sub for locos and vice versa.

[@jackhstproductions649]

@@PhilThomasTrains thanks for that. Should be very helpful