Six Senses Douro Valley

After three days in Porto we drove here for peaceful few days. We were met on arrival with cool towels, port and herbal tea, and some mixed nuts. After an easy check in, we were taken to a patio and told to ring the bell as a gesture that we have arrived home. This was a personal touch along with the two very friendly rescue dogs (Foxy and Aqua) who roamed throughout the hotel and joined us for all meals. The reception staff went above in assisting us before arrival with reservations to a lovely family-run quinta for port and wine tasting and a river cruise. After a quick tour of the property, we were escorted to our beautiful, quiet suite which overlooked the Douro river. Fruits, chocolates, port and lots of water were waiting for us. Room controls and communication with reception/spa/restaurants were all done via touch screen. There is an open bathroom with separate toilet and shower, huge bottles of toiletries which smelled fantastic along with comfy robes and slippers. The major drawbacks with the bathroom area are there isn't enough counter space or somewhere to sit and apply makeup nor is there anywhere practical to hang your towels. The bed and pillows are so comfortable you almost don't want to get out. Dinner on our first night was very special and excellent. It was also my husband's birthday and a surprise cake was brought out at the end. A bottle of champagne was also waiting for us in our room. That was truly wonderful and a lovely gesture. Breakfast is so beautifully presented and mind-blowing. There are so many options from eggs, fruits, salads, yogurts, granolas, bread and pastries to choose that it just goes on and on. At the entrance there is a huge liquid buffet with different vinegars, kombucha and elixirs. Then at the host area you also have choices of fresh juices. The a la carte menu is exceptional with daily specials and the bacon is to die for. Took advantage of the sauna on all three days and it was not crowded. Only drawback was the indoor pool and various saunas were not unisex so swimsuits were required (which I had to purchase). We drove through the gorgeous Douro valley every day and in the mornings the valet brought our car (which they washed!) with bottles of water for the trip. The staff are all very friendly and extremely helpful. This was a perfect retreat before our drive to Lisbon!

Marvellous hotel. Luxurious/ relaxed. Located in a marvellous area, surrounded by vineyards and the River Douro as a backdrop. The staff are fantastically friendly and professional, the decor is beautiful, everything has been thought out in detail. The rooms are fantastic, luxurious and very cosy. The food is excellent, with plenty of choice. Finally, I couldn't go without mentioning the swimming pool. Very well framed by the surrounding vineyards and the Douro river as a backdrop. A place to return to again and again...