Torel Quinta da Vacaria - Douro Valley ★★★★★

Quaint sleepy villages and vineyard-covered hills dominate the landscape of the Douro Valley – steeped in history and celebrated as the home of the world-renowned Port Wine and named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s here that the luxurious five-star Torel Quinta da Vacaria sits nestled along the Douro River, just an hour and a twenty-minute drive from Portugal's pretty northwest coastal city of Porto and close to the town of Reso da Regua.

Relax in the hotel’s captivating and refined surroundings, with warm and welcoming décor, celebrating natural tones and materials. Inspired by the local region, the thirty-three rooms and suites capture something special about this magical landscape guided by the philosophy of "A Way of Silence" curated by Portuguese designer Joana Astolfi - you will find room names reflecting serenity like "Calma" (Calm) and "Paz" (Peace), alongside references to regional treasures like "Vinho do Porto" (Port Wine) and "Andorinha"(Swallow).

Meander through hectares of alluring terraced vineyards, swim in the delightful outdoor swimming pool or enjoy one of the district's largest spas, the Calla Wellness and Spa, and experience the practice of vinotherapy and exquisite tailor-made spa programs - guaranteed to leave you feeling pampered and refreshed, also boasting a gym and an indoor swimming pool.

Start each day with a delicious, inclusive breakfast and, with two excellent restaurants to choose from, you'll be spoilt for choice for lunch and dinner options too - 16Legoas, the gastrobar offers exceptional river views or Schistó, by star-chef Vitor Matos, serves up delectable sustainable gourmet cuisine with fresh local ingredients and celebrates the local flavours. As one of the area’s oldest vineyards, you'll uncover its exclusive selection of table and Port wines dedicated to quality and tradition. Torel Quinta da Vacaria offers all the ingredients for an unforgettable stay.