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Why A Douro River Cruise Is The Best Way To See Portugal

Why A Douro River Cruise Is The Best Way To See Portugal

Forbes4 days ago
Douro Valley, Portugal getty
S naking 620 miles from Porto to the Spanish town of Duruelo de la Sierra —the UNESCO-listed Douro Valley offers graceful gliding through Portugal's most poetic landscapes of the River of Gold —where terraced vineyards tumble down emerald hillsides and rabelo boats drift past sleepy villages wrapped in morning mist. Passing through five dramatic locks, you'll embark on a mighty Portuguese odyssey ticking off sights from the glorious Mateus Palace to the hilltop Castelo Rodrigo, while sampling some of Portugal's finest Port wines in their birthplace, at storied vineyards—or ' quintas' —like Sandeman-owned Quinta do Seixo.
The big sell? Do all this from the comfort of your stylish, boutique river ship—unpacking just once—in a world of Scandi-chic suites, chauffeured guided tours, and spectacular, farm-to-table Portuguese cuisine.
Douro River, Portugal getty
Embarking in Porto , Portugal's soulful second city—world-famous for its baroque churches, steep terracotta rooftops, and storybook UNESCO-listed city center—your home for the next week awaits—the ultra-contemporary Viking Helgrim .
Sailing with just 106 guests, this sleek, intimate river ship offers an elegant restaurant, a sweeping Viking Lounge —complete with a boutique gift shop, small internet café, and expansive bar surrounded by plush sofas and hand-painted Azulejo tiles—plus an alfresco Aquavit Terrace dotted with garden loungers and rocking chairs, a high-tech coffee making zone (with irresistible daily-baked cookies), a serene Sun Deck , and 53 all-river-view staterooms.
Viking Douro Longship Viking
Its Veranda Suites , however, are bright, calming, and elegant—featuring a private balcony, a cozy sitting room (with a mini-desk, cushy sofa, and a flat screen TV), a partitioned bedroom with a queen-sized bed (convertible to twins), a walk-in wardrobe, a second TV (serving a small selection of live TV channels and movies-on-demand), and a French balcony—plus a snug ensuite with a little shower and anti-fog mirror.
Expect indulgent extras: premium Freyja® toiletries, plush robes and slippers, your own dedicated stateroom steward, twice-daily housekeeping, complimentary laundry and shoe-shine service, QuietVox headsets (a true gem for excursions), and a minibar refreshed daily with soft drinks, Jacquart champagne, Heineken, and small bottles of Vinho Verde—plus free WiFi throughout Helgrim .
Veranda Suite on Viking Helgrim. Viking
Welcomed aboard with a chilled glass of white Port, settle in for your first dinner: crispy crab cakes, veal sirloin, and mini cheese boards, or nightly Viking staples—think Caesar salads and juicy Angus ribeye. Aided by your trusty Maitre D, make use of Viking's Silver Drinks Package and choose from a myriad of premium wines, beers, and spirits—and of course, fabulous Ports .
Then step out into Porto's golden hour for a sunset stroll along a tangle of narrow streets—past open-air pizzerias, pop-up markets, and quirky boutiques like Porto's sardine emporium, climbing toward the soaring arches of the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge . Here, locals gather with picnic blankets and bottles of Verde on the grounds of the glowing Monastery of Serra do Pilar, as rickety trams whiz by—offering some of the finest vistas of twinkling Porto.
Porto getty
At daybreak, Helgrim sails for Lamego —ascending the mighty Crestuma and Carrapatelo locks—as guests attend expert-led lectures on cork production and lounge on the Sun Deck , lingering in its bubbling pool, sprawling across sun-drenched loungers, or getting lost in a Dickens novel as waiters waltz by with silver trays of sangria. The tempo onboard? Firmly in the slow lane.
In Lamego, you'll hop on a scenic coach ride to the glorious Mateus Palace —one of Portugal's most enchanting baroque jewels, nestled just beyond the historic town of Vila Real . Its rose-hued façade, exquisitely sculpted gardens, and ornamental pinnacles appear straight out of a fairytale, famously captured on the label of the iconic Mateus Rosé wine.
Fundação da Casa de Mateus (Mateus Palace) © Associação de Turismo do Porto e Norte
Inside, you'll uncover opulent period rooms with hand-carved ceilings, gilded mirrors, and oil portraits of aristocratic ancestors. Venture into the private chapel, or lose yourself in the palace's storied library—home to centuries-old manuscripts and rare tomes. Even now, Mateus remains a living legacy, home to the descendants of the Counts of Vila Real—and if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of them roaming the romantic, maze-like formal gardens, bursting with fragrant boxwoods, cedar-lined walkways, and elegantly sculpted topiaries.
Sitting high on the sun-drenched slopes of the Douro Valley, continue to Quinta do Seixo —a striking contemporary winery owned by the legendary Sandeman . Inside, sleek architectural lines meet historic Port wine tradition. You'll be led through the entire winemaking journey, from grape to barrel, sampling rich tawny and bold ruby Ports, before stretching out on the sandstone terrace offering cinematic panoramas of the mighty valley below.
Quinta do Seixo © Quinta do Seixo
Waking up the next morning in charming Pinhão , you'll drift across silky-smooth waters through some of the Douro's most serene river bends, passing through the Valerie and Pocinho locks—while onboard life unfolds with Portuguese cooking demonstrations, language lessons, and casual camaraderie over Americanos. Read More: Forbes The World's Best River Cruise Lines, According To Globe Travel Awards By Lewis Nunn
Arriving in sleepy Barca d'Alva , the last Portuguese town on the Douro River, just a few hundred yards from the Spanish border—you'll be enveloped by cherry, almond, and olive groves, and terraced vineyards climbing the riverbanks.
From Barca d'Alva, journey to sand-swept Castelo Rodrigo , a tiny hilltop medieval fortress village—2,200 feet above sea level—perched like a watchful sentinel over the vast, golden plains of Riba-Côa . Encircled by crumbling granite walls and 13 ancient turrets, its winding cobbled lanes thread between artisan gift shops (selling everything cork-themed) and al fresco cafés shaded by climbing bougainvillaea, humming with bees.
Castelo Rodrigo ©ARPT Centro de Portugal
Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed with sugared almonds to graze on as you spot Hebrew inscriptions etched into lichen-covered stone, peek into its 16th-century houses, and descend into its medieval cistern—adorned with Gothic and Moorish arches. Wander the ruins of Cristóvão de Moura 's palace, a poignant echo of Portugal's turbulent entanglement with Spanish rule.
Then, cap your visit by climbing to the top of the village's clock tower, offering sweeping views stretching toward the rugged Serra da Marofa and far-reaching folds of the Douro Valley, where eagles soar overhead and vineyards shimmer like glassy scales beneath the wind.
Castelo Rodrigo ©ARPT Centro de Portugal
Back onboard Helgrim , you'll enjoy a 'Taste of Portugal' buffet—think Marinière-style black mussels, tomato-braised sardines, roast carved duck, and rich Port wine pudding—before settling in for a night watching Salamancan flamenco dancers swirling and stomping to the rhythm of Spanish cajons.
The next morning, cross the Spanish border by motor coach through the sun-dappled Iberian countryside, passing olive groves, fig trees, and sleepy road villages, and you'll arrive in Salamanca —known as 'The Golden City'.
Salamanca getty
Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, glows with buildings carved from Villamayor sandstone that shimmer like honey under the basking Castilian rays. At its heart lies the Plaza Mayor , a baroque masterpiece framed by 88 arches and medallions of Spanish royalty—where locals sip vermouth beneath umbrellas and students strum guitars.
The city's crown jewel is, of course, the University of Salamanca , founded in 1134—the oldest in Spain and once among Europe's most prestigious. Its Plateresque façade bursts with ornate carvings, where legend says spotting its tiny stone frog brings academic luck.
University of Salamanca getty
Nearby, you'll dive into the bustling Salamanca Central Market , sampling aged Manchego, cured Iberico meats, and fine local wines, before visiting the enchanting Casa de las Conchas ('House of Shells')—dazzling with over 300 carved scallop shells; symbols of pilgrimage.
Spot its twin twin cathedrals—one Romanesque, one Gothic-Baroque—rising side by side, their tapered towers piercing the skyline, offering sweeping views over terracotta rooftops and the winding Tormes River . Or, saunter off solo-style—wandering hidden cloisters, sipping café con leche in sun-dappled courtyards, and tracing Cervantes' footsteps through sandstone alleys.
New Cathedral of Salamanca getty
At sunset, guests gather for a golden-hour Captain Q&A —before Helgrim glides toward Pocinho , where you'll disembark to visit the quaint village of Favaios . Here, time slows and bakers still knead dough by hand, working in age-old stone ovens fueled by wood and dried grapevines. Watch as the region's famed Four Corners Bread emerges with a golden crust, its aroma both earthy and smoky. Then, naturally, enjoy a rustic tasting. Read More: Forbes Is This The World's Most Expensive Cruise? By Lewis Nunn
Staying onboard? You'll slip under mighty iron bridges, past vine-laced cliffs and sun-drenched hillsides, toward Folgosa , where you'll visit Quinta das Carvalhas . Draped across the steepest slopes of the Douro Valley, this historic estate—often called the 'crown jewel' of Real Companhia Velha—dates back to 1756, spanning over 600 hectares. Here, century-old vines cling to its vertiginous hillsides, framed by wild lavender, knotted olive groves, and bursts of rosemary and thyme.
Wander past Vinhas Velhas , ancient field blends boasting up to 50 indigenous grape varieties—from Touriga Nacional to Tinta Roriz and Sousão—each adding complexity and depth to Carvalhas' celebrated Ports and DOC Douro wines. Finale: enjoy a personally-cured tasting of the Quinta's finest: ruby Ports and crisp whites—served with warm fluffy breads, local cheeses, and smoky cured meats ($199 per person with Viking ).
Quinta das Carvalhas © Quinta das Carvalhas
You'll rejoin Helgrim in Régua for a ' Viking Explorer Society' cocktail party—think Italian negronis and rosy cosmopolitans—before setting off the next morning to visit the sacred pilgrimage town of Lamego .
Its cobbled streets wind past 17th-century villas, gothic spires, and azulejo-lined staircases. At its heart, you climb up the 686 steps—zigzagging through nine lush terraces, grand fountains, and sculpted obelisks—to the elegant 'Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies', an 18th-century twin-towered baroque chapel, perched high on the hill like a crown. Even today, pilgrims take the long upward journey on their knees, seeking blessings from its ornate Rococo shrine, said to offer spiritual healing.
Back in Lamego's center, explore its 12th-century castle, peer into the ornate Lamego Cathedral, or wander the Museu de Lamego —a former bishop's palace housing Flemish tapestries.
Santuário de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedios) getty
Later in the afternoon, back onboard Helgrim, you'll be served a mini 'High Tea' in the Viking Lounge—think tiny finger sandwiches, warm fluffy scones, sweet macarons, and a wide tea menu featuring aromatic blends like jasmine blossom. Afterward, join a vintage Port wine demonstration before arriving in Vila Nova de Gaia , welcomed by a lively 'Tuna Folk Show'—a spirited serenade performed by university students in velvet capes, strumming mandolins and acoustic guitars.
Edging along the shimmering riverbanks, you'll gently glide back into Porto—completing your full Douro circle—visiting Portugal's first capital, Guimarães —known as 'the cradle of Portugal.'
Igreja de São Francisco (Chapel of Saint Francis) getty
Nestled in the verdant hills of northern Portugal, its UNESCO-listed Old Town is a labyrinth of granite alleyways, ivy-cloaked monasteries, and palaces that whisper tales of kings and conquests—with the phrase 'Aqui nasceu Portugal' ( Portugal was born here ) etched into its ancient city walls, a declaration of national identity.
At its heart stands the Castle of Guimarães , a formidable 10th-century fortress with jagged battlements and a towering keep, believed to be the birthplace of Afonso Henriques —Portugal's first king. Nearby, however, the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza stuns with its Gothic arches and red-tiled turrets.
Castle of Guimarães getty
Wander down narrow medieval streets, past half-timbered houses and flower-filled balconies, and arrive at the Church of Our Lady of Oliveira , a Romanesque-Gothic marvel nestled beside a centuries-old olive tree—before sampling gorgeous Portuguese pastries at a charming local bakery.
Finale? Gather with your fellow passengers and crew in the Viking Lounge one last time—clinking crystal glasses of aged Port and toasting the Golden River : a waterway that doesn't rush, but seductively unfurls its splendour. With ribboning terraced vineyards, glittering emerald hillsides, towering locks, and a stirring procession of ornate palaces, ancient villages, and sleek quintas, it's a journey that lingers long after the last sip. Saúde ! How To Do It
Join Viking's 8 and 10-day Douro River cruises—with stops in jewels like Porto, Régua, Pinhão, Barca d'Alva, and Salamanca. For more information about availability, fares, and what is covered as part of Viking's Inclusive Value , call 0800 319 66 60 (UK) or go to viking.com. For luxury chauffeured return airport transfers in the UK, choose Addison Lee. Read More: Forbes The World's Best River Cruise Lines, According To Globe Travel Awards By Lewis Nunn Forbes The World's Best Luxury Cruise Lines, According To Globe Travel Awards By Lewis Nunn Forbes Is This The World's Most Expensive Cruise? By Lewis Nunn Forbes The Best Danube River Cruises For 2025, According To Experts By Lewis Nunn Forbes The Ultimate Guide To South Africa Cruises By Lewis Nunn Forbes The Ultimate Guide To Croatia Island Hopping By Lewis Nunn
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Strikes at European airports this weekend could disrupt holiday plans for thousands of passengers
Strikes at European airports this weekend could disrupt holiday plans for thousands of passengers

Yahoo

time8 hours ago

  • Yahoo

Strikes at European airports this weekend could disrupt holiday plans for thousands of passengers

Thousands of travellers could see their summer holiday plans thrown into mayhem this weekend due to planned strikes. Airport workers in Italy will stage a four-hour nationwide strike on 26 July, potentially leading to dozens of flight delays and cancellations. Demands for improved safety, better working conditions and work-life balance and national contract renewals are driving this industrial action. Strike action is also taking place at airports across Spain and Portugal, adding to the potential travel chaos. Where will flights be affected by strikes? Major airlines such as EasyJet, Ryanair, British Airways, Wizz Air, Tui, Volotea and ITA Airways could be affected, as baggage handlers, ground staff and airport workers are expected to walk out at every major Italian airport from 1pm to 5pm on Saturday. This includes the Milan Malpensa, Milan Linate, Rome Fiumicino, Florence, Naples and Venice airports. At Milan Linate airport, Swissport gate services and check-in staff will also strike. Related World's most visited country misses out in traveller ranking of best cities Rome swelters as tour guides and tourists struggle in extreme heat Earlier this month, Italian strikes caused 73 incoming and outgoing flights to be cancelled in one day. This included flights from Milan Linate, Milan Malpensa, Venice Marco Polo and Naples. Spanish flights are also likely to be impacted this weekend, as budget Spanish airline Volotea's crew and pilots stage a strike on Saturday as well. This could have a widespread impact across key European air travel routes. The airline currently flies to more than 100 European cities. In Portugal, workers at the former Groundforce, now Menzies Aviation, will strike during the last weekend of July and the last four weekends of August. The strike could particularly affect Lisbon Airport. The strike by workers at SPdH/Menzies, formerly Groundforce, begins on 26 July at midnight and ends on 29 July at midnight. The protest will be repeated during weekends in August, from 8 to 11, 15 to 18, 22 to 25 and 29 August to 1 September. Major airports, including Lisbon, will be particularly badly affected. What can travellers do? While these upcoming strikes will no doubt cause inconveniences, there are several steps travellers can take to stay prepared and better informed. This includes checking the Italian Ministry of Transport's website for official strike information as well as asking specific airlines and airports for the latest updates. Travellers are also advised to confirm the status of their flight before leaving for the airport. If travel plans cannot be changed around strike dates, avoiding peak hours while heading to the airport and arriving with plenty of time to spare can help as well. Under Italian law, minimum service levels are required during strike action, which ensures that some flights operate as usual. Flights scheduled between 7am and 10am and between 6pm and 9pm usually fall under these regulations and are likely to not be impacted. Related How powerful is your passport? New 2025 rankings reveal Europe's winners and losers Greece introduces new cruise tax: How much will passengers have to pay? The Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) also publishes a list of guaranteed flights, which travellers can check for alternative arrangements. Flights to certain islands, such as to and from Sardinia, Sicily and Lampedusa, are often excluded from strikes as well. Travellers may be entitled to compensation in some cases. 'Under EU Regulation 261/2004, when disruption to a passenger's journey is caused by an airline's own employees, such as the planned Volotea staff strike, passengers may be eligible for compensation. This is because instances like these are considered within the airline's responsibility,' Darina Kovacheva, head of Legal at SkyRefund, said. She added: 'Volotea passengers whose flights are either delayed or cancelled at short notice due to this industrial action may be entitled to compensation of £250–£520 (€286.9-€453.2), based on the distance of their flight.' Solve the daily Crossword

10 Best Places to Retire in Portugal, According to Locals and Expats
10 Best Places to Retire in Portugal, According to Locals and Expats

Travel + Leisure

time8 hours ago

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10 Best Places to Retire in Portugal, According to Locals and Expats

Time and time again, Portugal makes its way onto lists of the best places to retire around the world. And as a newly minted local, it's easy for me to see why. Four years ago, I hopped on a plane to relocate to Portugal's capital city, Lisbon, to pursue my PhD and have a brand-new adventure. And while I may not be ready for retirement yet, the country has most certainly made its case, maybe even convincing me to stay well into my golden years. Portugal offers a rare balance of nature and culture that travelers adore, along with a strong public healthcare system and a relaxed pace of life that is sought after for retirees. It also remains relatively affordable for immigrants, although prices are increasing for locals. Still, its golden beaches, cliffside villages, and vineyard-covered valleys pack an incredibly attractive punch. But before you move here, or anywhere, experts want you to ask yourself one question: Is this really forever? 'One of the most important questions to ask yourself is: Is this a forever move, or just a chapter?' Colleen Showalter, the CEO and co-founder of relocation agency Portugal the Place, told Travel + Leisure . 'Some people move to Portugal thinking they'll stay forever, only to find they miss family back home or want to return later in life. Others settle in and can't imagine leaving.' That understanding is key, especially when it comes to finances, healthcare access, and obtaining the right visa if you do decide to move. While Portugal's D7 and new digital nomad visas are widely used by retirees, managing immigration paperwork, tax structures, and healthcare enrollment can be a heavy lift here without the right guidance. 'Start with patience,' Showalter said. 'There's a learning curve; having support helps.' And that's why every time I get a text, email, or DM asking for tips, my first response is always, "invest in a good lawyer." Still, all that paperwork can certainly be worth it. But next is finding the right place to live, because, while Portugal may be small, there's a lot more to the country than just Lisbon and Porto. 'This move isn't just about finding a cheaper or sunnier place to live," Showalter said. "It's about how you want to spend your time, who you want around you, and what kind of life you're trying to build.' Ready to explore the spots that will make the perfect place for your retirement in Portugal? Here are 10 destinations outside of the major cities that offer something for every kind of retiree. Cityscape of Obidos on Portugal's Silver Coast. Violetta Smirnova/Travel + Leisure 'The Silver Coast feels like Portugal at its most balanced,' Showalter shared about the region that sits about an hour north of Lisbon. This stretch of coastline, home to towns like Caldas da Rainha, Nazaré, and Óbidos, combines accessibility with authenticity, and it's famous for its surf. 'You've got golden beaches, hilltop villages, and cities," Showalter said, "big enough to have what you need, but small enough to feel like home.' It's an ideal spot for retirees craving a quieter spot without big-city noise, and is especially appealing to those who want to live near the ocean while enjoying the slow pace of valley villages and local markets. 'It's the kind of place where you can spend your morning at a local market, your afternoon at the beach, and your evening enjoying grilled fish with neighbors who quickly become friends,' Showalter added. Colorful buildings in Setubal. Setúbal came up several times with our experts, and for good reason. Just 45 minutes south of Lisbon, this port town has become one of the most talked-about retirement spots in the country, known for its sheer beauty and proximity to the city. 'Setúbal is a great choice for those who want to be close to Lisbon without living in the city itself,' Jen Barnett, the co-founder of the consultancy Expatsi, said. Barnett called out its "nice coastal scenery, cool local food scene (especially if you like fried cuttlefish!), and access to some of the best beaches in Portugal' as top reasons to give it a try. 'Setúbal is a working port town with real grit and beauty,' Showalter explained. 'It's got markets, museums, music, and some of the best seafood in Portugal. This isn't a resort town, it's a place where life unfolds slowly and richly." Cityscape of Amarante, Portugal. 'This one's for romantics—or anyone who dreams of living somewhere that feels like a postcard,' Showalter said of Amarante, a postcard-worthy town tucked in the Douro Valley. Located 45 minutes from Porto, this riverside town is known for its arched stone bridge, vineyard views, and more of that Portuguese slow living so many people are after. 'The town itself has a charming historic center, excellent restaurants, and a deep connection to wine and food culture. It's the kind of place where time slows down and seasons actually mean something,' she said. And again, it's just a quick drive to those busy city streets if you're craving even more culture. The sun setting over Sesimbra. Jacek_Sopotnicki/Getty Images Located just down the road from Setúbal, retirees can find a sleepy town that could just be their forever home. 'Sesimbra is smaller, slower, and framed by cliffs and sea,' Showalter explained. 'It has a distinctly local feel, especially in the off-season, and the sunsets there are unreal.' Its walkability and coastal charm make it a strong choice for those seeking serenity with occasional bursts of summer buzz and plenty of coastline to stretch out on all year long. Looking down on a village on Madeira. Violetta Smirnova/Travel + Leisure Madeira, an island about a two-hour flight from the mainland, is another location that consistently rises to the top of expert lists of the best places to retire in Portugal. 'Madeira is great for Americans," Jeremy Savory, founder of Millionaire Migrant, said, noting direct flights from the U.S. are under seven hours long. Federica Grazi, founder and managing director at Mitos Relocation Solutions, agreed, adding that 'Madeira is for nature and wine lovers. Despite its small size, this island off the coast of Morocco offers untouched nature, endless hiking opportunities, and some of the best wines in the country.' Colorful striped houses in Aveiro, often called the "Venice of Portugal" for its gorgeous canals, is more than just a pretty face. 'Expect a relaxed pace of life, beautiful architecture, and a strong sense of place without the high prices or tourist crowds of Lisbon or Porto,' Barnett said. Savory also called out Aveiro as a great spot for retirees, adding it's 'a charming place" that's ideally located between Porto and Lisbon. Savory explained that the city is well-connected through trains and is a walkable destination, which certainly scores it some points over Lisbon. A narrow cobblestone street in Coimbra. Coimbra is an inland option worth noting, especially if you're academically-minded. 'Coimbra hosts a historical university, around which rotate year-long cultural activities of various types,' Grazi shared. But it's not just a brainiac hub, it's a healthcare hotspot, too. 'Coimbra also hosts CHUC, an internationally recognised medical and research center,' Grazi added, which makes it doubly appealing for retirees looking for intellectual stimulation and peace of mind. A Carvoeiro beach with colorful fishing boats. No list of the top retirement spots in Portugal would be complete without mention of the Algarve, Portugal's southernmost region. While places like Lagos and Albufeira tend to dominate headlines, Barnett offered an alternative: Carvoeiro. "It's a small seaside town that's especially popular with people looking to spend days on the beach or the golf course," Barnett said. 'It's surrounded by gorgeous cliffs and has one of Europe's sunniest climates with 300 days of sunshine each year." The town has a strong expat presence, and English is widely spoken, making the transition here easier. 'There are lots of services tailored to older folks," Barnett added. "While housing costs more than inland areas, Carvoeiro still has good value compared to similar coastal destinations elsewhere in Europe.' People swimming near the Cascais remains a perennial favorite for retirees looking to stay close to Lisbon but still have quick access to the beach and nature. Though be warned, it does require a larger budget: 'Cascais is great if your money can go a little further,' Savory said. This seaside enclave offers luxury shops, coastal promenades, and public transportation to Lisbon's world-class hospitals, theaters, and international airport. The historic village of Pidao in Serra da Estrela. RuiDon't worry, powder hounds and ski bunnies—there's a retirement destination here for you, too. 'Did you know that it snows in sunny Portugal?' Savory shared. 'It does in the Serra da Estrela, where you can ski and play in the snow with your family.' Real estate in this region is surprisingly affordable, and the area's mountainous landscape offers gorgeous scenery that differs from Portugal's more popular coastal destinations.

An Insider's Guide To The Rebello Hotel & Spa
An Insider's Guide To The Rebello Hotel & Spa

Forbes

time2 days ago

  • Forbes

An Insider's Guide To The Rebello Hotel & Spa

Bello Rooftop The Rebello H oused in a cluster of 19th-century stone warehouses in Vila Nova de Gaia —birthplace of Porto's storied 300-year-old Port wine legacy— The Rebello is the city's stylish new arrival; reimagined into a design-led riverside retreat that fuses industrial heritage with contemporary elegance. Inside, it's all marbled globe lanterns, exposed brass piping, and liquorice-slicked floors—as chic Europeans lounge over chessboards and sip velvety cappuccinos. So whether you're lounging in lofty terrace suites, clinking cocktails on the rooftop, or detoxing at its Roman-inspired sanctuary spa—it provides the perfect pillow-stop for exploring Portugal's soulful second city. The best bit? With Little Rebels Kids Club —featuring a multilingual nanny service—this riverside haven is as family-friendly as it is fashion-forward . Porto getty Nestled along Porto's glimmering southern bank, The Rebello gazes across the Douro as glass-boxed river ships and former wine cargo Rabelo boats glide by; jostling for attention. Positioning you in the heart of the city—world-famous for its baroque churches, steep terracotta rooftops, and storybook UNESCO-listed city center—step out into the golden hour for a sunset stroll along a tangle of narrow streets. You'll pass open-air pizzerias, artisan pop-up markets, and quirky boutiques like the famed sardine emporium, before climbing toward the soaring arches of the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge . Here, locals spread picnic blankets and uncork bottles of Verde on the grounds of the glowing Monastery of Serra do Pilar , as rickety trams whiz by—offering some of the finest vistas of twinkling Porto. Forbes Why A Douro River Cruise Is The Best Way To See Portugal By Lewis Nunn Two Bedroom Suite The Rebello Boasting just 103 apartment-style suites, ideal for longer, laid-back stays, The Rebello's lofty Two Bedroom Suites are a masterclass in industrial-chic serenity. Spilling across nearly 1,500 square feet, they're light-filled and ultra-soothing—awash with soaring warehouse windows, warm oak accents, and polished concrete floors. Step inside and you'll uncover a spacious lounge-kitchenette, complete with a fully stocked SMEG fridge, Sjöstrand coffee machine, and a welcome basket brimming with local treats—think sardine pâté and a little bottle of tawny Port. Two sleek bathrooms feature walk-in rainfall showers and Claus Porto bath products, while the two king-sized bedrooms offer cloud-like mattresses and blackout blinds for deep, uninterrupted slumber. Outside, a sweeping private terrace beckons—where you can stretch out on stylish olive loungers, framing a cinematic slice of Porto's riverside promenade—perfect for sunrise morning espressos or golden-hour cocktails (double rooms from $235 per night). Pot&Pan The Rebello At sunset, ascend up to The Rebello 's panoramic rooftop bar, a breezy perch dressed with candy-striped parasols and comfy sofas—gazing out over Porto's climbing cable cars—as you pick at Portuguese olives and sip sweet 'Ocean Whisper' cocktails (a refreshing combo of vodka, cucumber, and sea lettuce). Up here, the Bello Rooftop Restaurant serves small petiscos-style plates like cider-drenched mussels, beef tartare, and salmon crudo, alongside giant prawn and squid skewers, and flame-grilled 'Surf and Turf' steaks. Forbes 3 Epic Hotels In The Netherlands For 2025 By Lewis Nunn Or, saunter down to Pot&Pan —housed in the building's former pot and pan factory—where Chef André Coutinho crafts exquisite Portuguese dishes that are both nostalgic and elevated. Graze on smoked mussels, salt-cured cod, and crispy suckling pig, before diving into a trio of desserts: Romeo and Juliet cake, rose panna cotta, and the house-favorite Drunken Pear . Each dish is paired with exceptional Douro Valley wines—from Rebello's own red wine to Vallado Reserva and Quinta do Cidrô Chardonnay . Spa and Wellness Spa at The Rebello The Rebello Swirl down to the hotel's ancient Roman-style spa—a serene sanctuary carved from the bones of a former cookware factory. At its heart lies a cauldron-style swimming pool, softly lit by floating lanterns and flanked by royal loungers that invite hours of languid repose. Or, make use of its bubbling jacuzzi, cedar-scented sauna, and high-tech gym. The spa's four treatment rooms draw on Chinese, Japanese, and Indian wellness traditions—offering everything from aromatherapy and lymphatic drainage to shiatsu, reflexology, and anti-aging facials using organic Portuguese products. Signature rituals include a jet-lag recovery massage and a two-hour Rebello Ritual— comprising a full body exfoliation, massage, and facial ($200 per person). After your treatment, recline in the Tranquility Water Lounge , where sun-and-moon-mimicking lamps cast a golden glow over Roman pottery and peach-toned walls (treatments from $95 for 30 minutes). How To Get There US travelers can hop on a 7-hour direct flight from New York to Porto with Tap Air Portugal or United Airlines. Meanwhile, London is just a breezy mere 150-minute flight away, with multiple daily departures from Gatwick, Heathrow, and Stansted. Once you land in Porto, it's a quick 25-minute cab ride to The Rebello . For more information or to book your stay, visit Read More: Forbes Why A Douro River Cruise Is The Best Way To See Portugal By Lewis Nunn Forbes 3 Epic Hotels In The Netherlands For 2025 By Lewis Nunn Forbes An Insider's Guide To Calcot & Spa: The Cotswolds By Lewis Nunn Forbes How To Spend The Perfect Weekend In Guernsey By Lewis Nunn Forbes An Insider's Guide To Another Place: The Lake District By Lewis Nunn Forbes How To Spend The Perfect Weekend In Bakewell By Lewis Nunn

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Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
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