MW Douro Wine & Spa

The location is remote, but that comes with stunning views across the valley and vineyards. We stayed in a suite with windows on three sides and a balcony, and enjoyed relaxing in the sunny pool area. The food was high quality, breakfast included, and the facilities also covered a gym, indoor pool, and spa treatments. Most guests while we were there were Portuguese, which we found reassuring, and the staff were friendly and keen to help. One evening, our food took an exceptionally long time to arrive. The staff recognized the problem and made it more than right during our stay.

That view is the heart of this place, and the hotel gives you room to really take it in. Claudio went above and beyond to meet our needs, and every staff member we met was kind and friendly. We were worn out from two weeks of traveling around Spain and Portugal, and our two nights here were just what we needed. It was a trip highlight, and I can’t recommend it enough.

The dining service needs some work. It felt like they were short on staff, and although our waiter tried hard, the experience didn’t feel five-star. The food wasn’t especially impressive either, particularly the ribeye. Still, I liked the hotel a lot and would recommend it. It’s a brand-new facility, so I expect things may get more organized with time. The rooms were clean and nice, the view was amazing, and the staff were pleasant and friendly. The facility itself feels five-star.

The view is gorgeous, but I wouldn’t stay here again. They call it a five-star wine and spa hotel, yet I’d put it closer to three stars. The website suggests wine experiences, but there aren’t any, and they have no partnerships. You have to arrange visits yourself and drive everywhere, with nothing close by. The wine list is small, and the restaurant menu is very limited, with dishes often running out. Staff seemed stretched thin, with some bar staff also plating dinner. The restaurant staff were lovely, though. Our waiter was attentive and spoke excellent English, and check-in and check-out staff were good too. There are some practical issues: the parking area has no elevator, so drop off large bags at reception first. No robes or slippers are provided, and you need a swim cap for the indoor pool. The outdoor pool has no refreshment service, there are no do-not-disturb signs for the room doors, and there are no coffee or tea facilities in the rooms. The restaurant balcony doors only open one way. We got locked out and had to knock on the window until another guest let us in.