Douro Elegance Suites

Four months after our stay, we're still trying to recover our money. The owner eventually told Booking.com he wouldn’t agree to a refund, despite the receptionist having told us we could cancel and get one. When we contacted Booking.com to confirm, they said they needed the owner's approval. They emailed him, but he said he hadn't received it, and he didn't answer when they called. Meanwhile, the receptionist was speaking to him by phone and told us to leave. We said we wouldn't go until the refund was agreed, then the owner told her to call the Police. The room was unbearably hot because the air conditioning wasn't working, and nobody was on site or at reception when we arrived. The hot tub on the balcony had foul water and slimy sides, the bedspread was stained, and the WiFi didn't work. The listing on Booking.com promised a suite with a separate bedroom, living room, private entrance, walk-in shower, and bath. It wasn't a suite. The bedroom opened off a shared kitchen and lounge used by guests from five other rooms, and the bathroom had a shower but no bath. The place didn't feel elegant either. Avoid this property at all costs.

We were muddy bikers, but that didn't stop Alexandra from giving us a really warm welcome. The rooms felt like a five-star hotel, and we were glad we found the place. We even got to wash our bikes.

Stopped here along the ACT Portugal motorcycle route. The place was brilliant and very clean, with lovely views over the lake and mountains.

We had a lovely evening on the balcony, looking out at the Douro River. The room was great too, and sleeping with the balcony door open was wonderful. It's pretty much in the middle of nowhere, so it's a good idea to shop in Vila Nova de Foz Cõa first. The place is otherwise very well equipped, though I would have liked a coffee machine.