The Escadaria de Acesso ao Passeio Ribeirinho significantly shortens the walk for pedestrians between the path along the riverbank and the parking lot at the road bridge over the river. According to the Komoot map, you previously had to walk under the bridge to reach the top in a long loop.
The stairs were rebuilt in March 2024 by the Município de Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo (the municipality), as the old structure was completely destroyed and abandoned. They consist of raised wooden structures resting directly on the ground.
Barca d'Alva is a popular stop for Douro cruises, and these stairs facilitate the descent to the river quay and the walking path, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Douro, the bridge, and the surrounding gorges. They contribute to the revitalization of the place, which had lost importance since the closure of the railway line (the Linha do Douro) in 1988. Today, it is a highlight for nature lovers and photographers, especially at sunset.