| This Hotel was an old Port wine estate dating back from the XVIII century. It was owned by a familiar Port wine company, The Fladgate Partnership, who in May 1998, decide to transform the house of the family and the Port lodges, in to a charming hotel. Great care was putted in architectural and decorative details, and the result was a cosy, elegant and beautiful small hotel. All his 43 rooms face the view of the river and the dramatic mountains, carved by sloppes with the Port wine production. Guests can enjoy the views from their private balcony or terrace. Outdoors two more terraces provide moments of pure relaxation with the view of the river so close. Drinks or meals can be served when the weather conditions permit.
An outdoor swimming pool and the tennis are surrounded by gardens, trees and the landscape. Inside the hotel there is a Library Bar, with a superb Port wine list and also a superb restaurant. Comfort, elegance and intimacy are always present.
The breakfast is served in a room illuminated by the light passing trough the doors, and in summer breakfast can be taken outside at a small terrace, covered by dark pink bougainvillea. A games room with English decoration is available to watch TV, play billiard or play cards. Three meeting rooms are available for small meetings and incentives.
At the wine shop we find the visible face of The Wine Academy. Available Ports and other wines from the area, amongst local cheese, jams, cookies, cigars, and even tea to take with Port. Tutored Port wine tastings, wine courses, and special programmes in the wine estates are available. Guests can reach the Hotel by several ways, by train from Porto (takes about 2.30 h), and the hotel has is own private gate to the railway station, by car from Porto (about 125 km), by boat, or by helicopter. Every day small and traditional boats are available providing unforgettable moments from the region. The hotel is a Relais and Chateaux and the 5 C are always present, Calm, Cuisine, Courtoisie, Character, Charm. Ideal to relax and enjoy great food and wines in one of the most spectacular humanized landscapes of the world.
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