Vidago Palace, Douro Valley, Portugal

Luxurious and sophisticated country retreat - and great value!

5 nights from around £580pp in a Classic Room, including breakfast, flights and car hire

Opened in 1910, this luxurious, stately palace – commissioned by King Carlos I – offers guests a taste of La Belle Époque and was originally built to entice wealthy international travellers to experience the health benefits of the local mineral water. Today, Vidago Palace is an award-winning member of 'The Leading Hotels of the World' and has an English country manor sensibility about it, with its star attractions being the romantic atmosphere, the magnificent 18 hole golf course and the sleek, white-marble spa, where you can take the local spring waters in style. Perfect for couples looking for a sophisticated place to stay with plenty of interesting things to see and do locally.

Accommodation

Whilst Vidago Palace looks imposingly large, the place has a much more intimate, boutique feel, and offers a collection of 70 comfortable, individually designed, guest rooms and grand suites.

Activities & Experiences

Northern Portugal has plenty to explore. Once you’ve exhausted yourself on the tennis courts, conquered the golf course, and experienced the spring waters, venture out and discover the natural beauty and fascinating culture of the region. Borrow a bike from reception and explore the rolling hills or jump in your hire car for some wine tasting in the Douro Valley and a visit to the UNESCO protected town and castle of Guimarães, considered the Cidade Berço – 'cradle city' – of the Portuguese nation.

Facilities & Services

25m pool surrounded by lawns and loungers, indoor pool, 18 hole golf course, tennis courts, spa, gym, and yoga studio.

In the Salão Nobre Dining Room, originally the palace's gilded ballroom, Portuguese chef Josu Sedanu-Martin (who previously wowed Londoners at Quaglino’s and the Ivy) serves up a gourmet take on local favourites. Meals are also served in the Winter Garden Conservatory and at the laid-back Poolside Bar.

Weather & Seasons

Porto and the Douro Valley can be visited year-round, but the best times to travel are spring, early summer and autumn for warm, sunny weather. In July and August temperatures can reach as high as 45°C.