Vila Gale Douro Vineyards Hotel

The Douro scenery and setting are gorgeous, and most of the staff were helpful. But finding the hotel was a mess: I was looking for Hotel Vila Gale Douro Vineyards, while every sign said Val Moreira, and the poor directions added 10 km to my drive. The first receptionist was brusque and gave me little useful information about the facilities. From the car park it's a long walk to the room down a very steep cobbled path, and nobody offered to help with the bags. Dinner was awful, served from a buffet in a joyless canteen, and food that should have been hot was mostly cold or barely warm. Overall, the poor organisation and management let the team down. It also felt as if large tour groups mattered more than independent guests. Avoid.

Service was generally good, and the property is beautiful, with lovely views, a pool, kids' pool and slides, and a pool bar. Still, I'd put the stay somewhere between three and four stars. Food is a real problem: the buffet costs 50 euros and requires a reservation, while the only other option is a bland snack bar tucked in a restaurant corner. With limited places to eat nearby and kids along, easy dinner options mattered to us. There wasn't a coffee or espresso machine in the room either. Our room was at the top of the property, and even as a fit person in my 30s, the climb was worse than some stairs in Lisbon. The playground shown in some photos is gone, with a building now going up where it used to be, so there's no space for kids to run around. The so-called spa is just a room off reception, and the massage was mediocre. For the views and pools I'd still give it four stars, but next time I'd choose a smaller place. The usual hotel conveniences and benefits didn't make up for these drawbacks.

The staff were so kind and accommodating that they made the whole stay a pleasure. The hotel also has a wonderful setting, with breathtaking views and a peaceful feel, while still being well placed for nearby attractions. I loved my time here and would recommend it for the people, the location, and the scenery.

The view from the hotel was excellent, but our assigned room had a strong sewage smell. Check the toilet and bathroom before settling in. Sadly, the staff weren't helpful, and although they say reception is open around the clock at check-in, no one answers when you call.