Six Senses Douro Valley

This is the first European Six Senses resort – the brand is celebrated for their luxury hotels in Asia. They’ve brought the same sophisticated style to the Douro, renovating an impressive old manor house into a superb retreat.

Set on a hillside, the Six Senses Douro Valley overlooks the river and acres of vineyards. Local tiles, cork ceilings, granite floors and lashings of gold leaf make the hotel as attractive as its old façade. Rooms are dreamy and full of light, with huge windows and oak floors. Some of the suites have bathtubs with amazing views of the Douro River, and the Vineyard Pool Villa, created from the original cellars has its own garden and a private plunge pool, all a short drive from Porto.

The hotel’s saltwater outdoor pool is a thing of beauty, an intense inky blue against the gardens and hillside views. The indoor pool at the award-winning spa is just as attractive, vast, with floor to ceiling windows. There’s also a sauna, steam room and personalised pampering treatments. Yoga classes are held here, and also amidst the surrounding woods.

Complimentary wine tastings are often held in the Library, a lovely spot for a pre-dinner drink. The restaurant, with an open kitchen, is a chic and spacious affair leading onto a lovely terrace. Ingredients from the organic garden feature strongly in a menu based on traditional Portuguese dishes.