After a few days exploring Porto, some time immersed in nature at the Octant Douro is a treat. With a location that’s just an hour’s drive from the city, the 61-room hotel feels like another world. Every inch of the property offers breathtaking views of the surrounding nature, crafting the perfect retreat on the banks of the Douro River, which is why it was carefully selected to be part of Mr. and Mrs. Smith’s portfolio.
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The hotel has a modern decor throughout, complete with neutral tones, marble touches, and floor-to-ceiling windows. From the second you step through the door, it’s obvious that the hillside views of the river and Ilha dos Amores (Lovers’ Island) are the focal point of the property. The tiered hotel was intentionally designed to maximize the panoramic scenery, which is why you’ll find glass walkways, wide terraces, and outdoor spaces throughout.
With a focus on catching up on some rest and relaxation, a visit to the spa is a necessity. The minimalist space has five treatment rooms alongside a hydrotherapy circuit, sauna, and Turkish bath. Every month the spa brings in different practitioners, all who specialize in different wellness-focused practices, ranging from meditation to acupuncture. Octant Douro also has three pools, one indoor with a cozy fireplace and two outdoors—one on the roof and one in the middle of the retreat.
For a bite, you’ll want to head to one of the two onsite dining spaces. Both highlight the local Douro Valley wines alongside local cuisine options. Raiva showcases the region’s amazing produce with nods to Portuguese cooking traditions in dishes featuring ingredients like freshwater fish. Breakfast is also served in this space and features an expansive spread with local jams, fresh-baked breads, and honey from the hotel bees. The A Terra wine bar is a more casual onsite spot, offering cocktails, an impressive list of Portuguese wines, and fire-cooked foods.
Given the location, outdoor activities are aplenty. However, you shouldn’t miss out on a boat ride in one of the hotel’s gorgeous vessels. The experience includes a picnic on the water or on the private Lovers’ Island and was a highlight of our visit. A wine tasting with the in-house sommelier is also a treat.
Top Takeaways
Location: Douro Valley, Portugal
Rating: Five-Star
The Vibe: A riverside retreat.
Food + Drink: Start and end the day in Raiva, a Michelin-recognized spot with an emphasis on the region’s amazing produce. For light bites, visit the A Terra Wine bar, a spot serving up an impressive selection of Portuguese wines and fire-cooked foods.
Amenities: fitness center and spa; indoor and outdoor pool; room service
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The property features a minimalistic design that emphasizes the surrounding nature.
What’s Nearby? Paiva Walkways, local wineries.
Any personal neighborhood recs? While on-site, book a boat ride down the Douro Valley in one of the properties’ boats.
Rooms: 61 rooms and suites
Pricing: Rooms start at $200/a night
Closest Airport: Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO)
