Rooms

The Double Rooms are identical, 3 either side of the central living space. Although they are narrow and feel rather cabin-y, they make clever use of the space, somehow managing to fit in a kingsize bed, sofa area, shower bathroom, wardrobe and a small deck with seating. There's not much room left over to swing a cat, or even a kitten, but they're fine for a couple of nights, especially if you're a tidy soul who unpacks.

The 2 Suites are new since we last visited, and they look stunning. There's a double bed on one side of the room and a living area on the other, separated by draping curtains. You'll also find sofas set around a fireplace, a dining table and an ensuite bathroom.

Décor is pristine white and tasteful, with tongue-and-groove panelling, high-quality furnishings and vast photo canvases of the Douro. Sofas are beautifully worn leather, and a silver wood-burner pod dangles from the ceiling for a fire in the colder months. We loved the novelty of the mirror TV, and all the little touches including fragrant toiletries, art books and a coffee machine. Remote-controlled blackout curtains will lull you into a dreamless sleep, and upon waking you can lie in bed and gaze at the river. Sound-proofing isn't great so bring earplugs.

Features include:

• Bathrobes
• Hairdryer
• In-room treatments available
• Safe box
• WiFi

Eating

Evening meals are a set 3-course menu, accompanied by Quinta do Vallado wines, which are all superb. We started with delicious Serra da Estrela cheese, served with homemade tomato jam and local meats. Next came veal carpaccio topped with parmesan and rocket. Our main was a hearty monkfish and prawn stew, and a cinnamon crème brûlée rounded things off. Fairly simple but tasty fare.

Breakfast is a generous buffet of meats, cheeses, fruit salads and yummy homemade compotes with yoghurt. Eggs are made to order. We felt it a shame that the fresh OJ was watered down and the croissants tasted like they were from a packet, but it's a hearty spread so you can fill up.

Sandwiches, salads and tapas are available all day, as are coffee and homemade cakes (don't miss the pastéis de nata). Be aware that on Sunday nights dinner is not available, so you'll need to drive into Castelo Melhor (15 mins).

Features include:

• Bar
• Coffee maker
• Restaurant

Activities

• Laze by the infinity pool, drinking in the incredible setting and enjoying the peace
  
• Or sit on the main terrace and watch birds wheeling through the air; there's a telescope for guest use
  
• Trek down to the river where there's a simple deck area
  
• Take a boat trip on the Douro (Casa do Rio have their own boat), or try windsurfing, SUP and kayaking
  
• There are electric bikes to borrow; perfect for navigating the hilly terrain
  
• There's a free tour of local wineries for tastings and to learn about wine-making. Casa do Rio has 20 hectares of organic vineyards
  
• Faia Brava is a 30-minute drive away, a nature reserve with walks, birding and Unesco cave paintings

Activities on site or nearby include:

• Birdwatching
• Boat trips
• Cooking classes
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Historical sites
• Horse riding
• Kayaking
• Windsurfing
• Wine tasting
• Yoga

Kids

Only guests aged 12+ are allowed unless the property is hired exclusively. All beds are kingsize doubles and there are no extra beds/baby cots available, unless the property is hired exclusively.

For more family-friendly places, see our Kids Collection

Location

Casa do Rio is set on the banks of the River Douro, 6km from Castelo Melhor in Vila Nova de Foz Coa. It's about 3 hours' drive from Porto (Oporto).

By Air:
Vila Real is the closest airport, but Porto is a much bigger hub. Click on the links below for a list of airlines serving these airports.

From the Airport
Transfers can be arranged, but if you want to travel independently, you will need a car to get here. See our car rental recommendations.

Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.com.

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