Aquapura

Obviously a very high quality resort experience. But is it worth the very high price? My research suggests this is the most expensive hotel in Portugal. Perhaps 2-3 times the price of other comparable hotels such as the Ritz or Intercontinental. While the experience is high end and service levels are excellent, we felt the resort left something to be desired. For starters, the layout of the rooms are functionally difficult. There is no door to the bathroom area so one person getting up in the night (or early in the morning) will disturb the other. The pool deck gets extremely hot. You have to walk through the restaurant to get to the pool. The layout of the fitness room is cramped (great equipment and weights though), and other minor functional irritants. Yes, this sounds like “champagne problems” but at this high price there shouldn’t be ANY such problems. But our biggest issue is the nickel and diming. For example, the hotel adds a “service charge” of $75 Euros a day to the bill as a “tip” to the staff. I did not know this going in and was tipping the staff at dinners, drinks, parking etc. Then it magically appeared on the bill at check out and I then felt shamed in asking them to reduce it. It is optional, but not presented as such. Drinks are very expensive (18 Euros for a margharita?) and not substantive or special. We had some issues with service at our first dinner, as though they were understaffed that night. In fairness, they do have some “freebies” such as putting food out from 3-6 (cakes and pastries) and we attended a very lovely cocktail hour with live music that had complimentary drinks and some appies. Overall, the food is very good and the ambiance is spectacular. It is a very relaxing place that you won’t want to leave even for day trips to nearby towns. But I hesitate to say I would return because the value isn’t there for the price (room was 1500 Euros a night, compared to the Ritz Penha Longa which was 500). I’m sure that is money is no object you won’t care much about these comments. But if you are willing to spend the money and want to come away from it thinking you got your “money’s worth”, I suggest you research other options.

Amazing botique hotel with a great location in the Douro Valley. Great restaurants, pool, workout facilities, and incredible views along with amazing guest hospitality. If you can afford it, don't miss it!

A highly recommended escape for all. Location is perfect with beautiful walking trails across the property and to the vineyards nearby, Douro river. Wine tasting experiences especially the one featuring various port wines along with artisanal chocolates was very very good. Very welcoming team, I’d like to acknowledge Georgia at the Reception who helped me check in, Rachel who was kind enough to help change rooms as they offered an excellent upgrade, Paulo at breakfast and Diogo at checkout. Food was excellent and especially loved the BBQ experience. I recommend making reservations for the restaurants and treatments in advance.