Serviced Apartments in Douro Valley

I read a number of the negative reviews (after I had booked) and arrived at the hotel with anticipation of being disappointed. I am glad to say we had a lovely stay. Food was good, staff helpful, it is a lovely setting. I stayed in the river view suite and the room was great. Design good and lots of space. There is a lovely walk along the river. My only regret was that I had not figured where the hot buffet was at breakfast. I only spotted it when I was leaving. Thankfully, I was not there when children were in residence. I saw that a number of previous guests had complained of child disruption/noise. I can see how that would affect the tranquility. Maybe check for times when children are least likely to be around if you want to enjoy the peace and quiet. I would definitely stay there again.

Absolutely breathtaking. The views, the location, the service, the food. I could write a novel and not capture everything. If you have an opportunity to book the Six Senses, do it!! You’ll be tempted to skip breakfast because you’re cocooned in the delicious bedding. Resist that temptation. The breakfast is extravagant.

We stayed 3 nights at the adjacent building Casa Amarela and we knew ahead of time that there would be steps to access the room- not a problem with that. However, our room is about a 5-6 minute walk from the reception and the main restaurant—not a problem unless you have luggage—- as the walk is a bit hilly. On arrival our luggage was brought to Casa Amarela via a golf cart- not us- luggage only and that helped. Upon departure they completely refused to transport the luggage to the reception to check out and wait for the taxi. The first taxi I called said he couldn’t pick us up at Amarela, only at the reception. I had to cancel this taxi and request another one thru the hotel that would get all the way where I was. I was told 15-20 minutes for the taxi. It took 30 minutes without any update from the front desk. I had to call twice to check on the status. It was a hassle to get some ice. Tim’s Terrace said they didn’t have any, even though they serve drinks, therefore I had to walk to Cozinha da Clara. Again the reception staff was aware I wanted ice and they made no effort whatsoever to assist. Tim’s Terrace closes too early for food. The main restaurant Cozinha da Clara wants to give the impression of formality and exclusivity however instead it feels pretentious and unwelcoming- we didn’t stay. The view was pretty, the room was comfortable (we could deal with the stairs) and clean and the breakfast was excellent. I would not stay again due to the poor service.