Six Senses Douro Valley

Surrounded by a stunning 17-acre estate of umbrella pines, cork trees, wild sand dunes, wildflowers, rice fields and a stretch of pristine, white-sand beach, Sublime Comporta is a fabulous contemporary retreat a little over an hour from Lisbon. There are 14 white, minimalist, rustic bedrooms spread between the main building and a nearby annex, as well as a selection of beautiful 2, 3 and 5 bedroom ‘cabana’ villas. The chic restaurant, Sem Porta, celebrates seasonal local produce and producers in a relaxed, modern setting. Think fresh oysters and sea bass with herbs and vegetables from the organic twinned with wonderful regional wine. There’s also a cocktail bar as well as another drinks venue by the swimming pool. Activities in the surrounding areas include horse-back riding on the dunes, fields and deserted beaches of Comporta, picnics on private lakes, excursions out with a local fisherman, wine tasting and excursions to discover Portugal’s only resident dolphin community, though sitting back and relaxing is the order of the day here. Sublime Comporta’s spa offers a wide variety of treatments in indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, a sauna, steam bath and a heated indoor pool with all organic products.

This hotel was the family home of the Yeatmans, the British owners of a large port business. A hillside position on the banks of the River Douro in the heart of Vila Nova de Gaia and next to ancient port houses puts the hotel in a prime position for epic views and interesting activities. The decor is classic and elegant, in keeping with the family’s heritage. The 109 rooms and suites feature antique artefacts and pictures from different Portuguese wine producers, opening out onto private balconies overlooking the river and the city’s historic centre. Be immersed in the city’s culture in the ADF Suite, where the bed head is an original barrel top and the domed oak ceiling mimics the enormous oak barrels used in wine production. A highlight of a stay at The Yeatman is dining at the two gourmet restaurants. Enjoy imaginative cuisine where the traditional flavours are reinterpreted and presented immaculately. The restaurant is bright and airy and offers spectacular views over the river. There’s a comprehensive list of Portuguese wines and food and wine pairing menus take you on a journey through Portugal’s diverse and varied wine regions. Relax and unwind at the hotel spa which offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, using natural ingredients from the surrounding vineyards. There is also an indoor and outdoor rooftop pool – take a dip in the evening and admire the twinkling lights of the city laid out before you.

In the heart of the Algarve and looking out over the Praia da Rocha beach is Hotel Bela Vista, a beautiful historic property with plenty of Portuguese charm. The building dates from 1918 but the interiors are thoroughly contemporary, creating an exciting blend of old and new. There are just 38 rooms and suites, each designed by one of Portugal’s leading interior designers. Expect bright colours, bold geometric patterns and beautiful ceramic and tile detailing. Rooms come with views of either the ocean, garden or the main street of Praia da Rocha, and some have their own private balconies. Experience the flavours of Portugal at the Vista Restaurant, where guests can dine inside or on the terrace overlooking the Atlantic. There is also a L’Occitane spa with a sauna, hammam and treatments rooms, as well as an outdoor swimming pool. The beautiful Praia da Rocha beach is on your doorstep and there is direct, private access from the hotel.

Vila Vita Parc sits in the centre of the Algarve, offering direct access to the beach. The stay is built in traditional Portuguese style with subtle nods to the region’s Moorish heritage. Inside, discover a collection of luxury rooms, suites and villas with private pools. Ranging from two-to-five bedrooms, each of their 5 villas benefits from the services of a personal butler who ensure your holiday goes seamlessly. Combining the breathtaking beauty of its unspoiled setting with the vast array of amenities it has to offer, Vila Vita Parc is among Portugal’s best luxury hotels. On property, guests have access to seven pools including one heated and three for kids. There are tennis courts, mini-golf, a kid’s club, as well as personalised well-being programmes at their incredible wellness centre which is the only Sisley spa in Portugal. When it comes to dining, Vila Vita Parc features a wide array of options with 11 restaurants, two of which are Michelin-starred. There are 6 bars and an incredible wine cellar. If you’re after a special evening, we suggest you try their Ocean’s Tasting Menu which features a superb gastronomic adventure, paired with Portuguese wines.