Luxury Farm Stays: Vila Real (2023)

Along the banks of the Corgo River, Quinta do Vallado is one of the most famous winery estates in the Douro Valley with a history going all the way back to 1716. It once belonged to the pioneering port wine maker, Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira, and still belongs to her descendents today. It is now a modern, luxury boutique hotel, but also with more traditional style accommodation in the old manor house, and you can expect the very best in comfort, service, and of course food and wine. It also has spa facilities, an outdoor swimming pool and a jacuzzi. THE ACCOMMODATION: They have a range of lovely rooms and suites 5 of them in the old manor house, and 8 in a new, rather unusual looking, modern wing, built back in 2012 mainly from slate, another thing this region of Portugal is well known for. The manor house rooms are a bit more traditional though it would be a stretch to call them rustic. The emphasis is generally on comfort and modern style, something which is even more in abundance in the sleek modern wing where the rooms all come with balconies and some superb views. The pick of the bunch there is the suite; a nicely designed 43 sq m space with a living room, bedroom and a balcony looking out on the vineyards and the river. There is an excellent buffet breakfast to be enjoyed every morning plus you can treat yourself to some great evening meals, and snacks throughout the day. Food lovers will also appreciate the chef’s own cooking classes, ask at reception, or at the restaurant, for details. Not forgetting the wine; Quinta do Vallado is one of the most famous vineyard & winery in the Douro Valley with over 100 acres of vine and a long history of producing fantastic port as well as Douro Valley whites and reds. And, as an extra, they also produce their own extra virgin olive oil. All can be sampled throughout your stay and you can of course also buy some to take home. Wine tasting sessions can be had too, as well as cellar and vineyard READ MORE