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Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa

Riba Douro , Lugar De Portela Do Rio, Pala - Ribadouro (Show on Map)

8.7

Very Good

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1 room2 guests 1 room, 2 guests

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Summary of reviewsThe Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa is lauded for its remarkable setting in the heart of the Douro Valley, offering guests an escape with breathtaking views of the Douro River. The serene location provides a picturesque backdrop for relaxation, with highlights including a spectacular infinity pool and proximity to the region's natural beauty.

The hotel excels in offering a highly praised breakfast experience, marked by a wide variety of quality options and excellent service, complemented by serene views. While the dining experience at dinner presents some mixed feedback, the restaurant boasts great-tasting dishes and a beautifully decorated setting, although some guests find room for improvement in variety and service.

Rooms at the hotel are noted for their spaciousness, comfort, and stunning river views, with many guests appreciating their modern amenities and tasteful décor. Cleanliness is also a strong point, with both rooms and common areas described as well-maintained, contributing positively to the guest experience.

The staff is universally praised for their warmth, professionalism, and attentiveness, enhancing the welcoming environment throughout the hotel. Despite some inconsistency, the overall impression of the service is favorable.

Amenities such as the spa and pool are key features of the hotel. The spa offers a pleasant, if slightly small and dated, experience with quality treatments, while the pools, especially the outdoor infinity pool, are standout highlights offering stunning views and an ideal setting for relaxation. Parking is another well-received aspect, with ample, secure facilities that add to the convenience of the stay.

Families are welcomed at the hotel, which provides good facilities and accommodations. Suggested improvements include enhanced children's activities and spaces to further cater to family needs.

Overall, the Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa offers a tranquil retreat with exceptional views and amenities, making it an admirable destination in the Douro Valley, though some areas would benefit from fine-tuning to fully align with five-star expectations.
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Pool 1 information:

Location of the pool: Outdoor pool

Hotel with Parking

This hotel is highlighted by guests for having the 'best parking' they experienced in Portugal. It offers free parking on-site. The hotel is a 5-star property with a prime location on the Douro River.

Hotel with Tennis Courts

Located in the Douro Valley, it offers a tranquil setting with tennis courts and spa facilities. Guests can enjoy scenic views and a relaxing environment combined with sporting activities.

Hotel with Outdoor Pool

This hotel features an outdoor pool, a spa, and a restaurant serving traditional Portuguese cuisine. It offers a luxurious experience with comprehensive facilities.

Hotel with Panoramic View Pool

Located in Riba Douro, this hotel provides excellent views of the Douro River. The spa and pool areas are designed to maximize the scenic beauty of the valley.

Hotel with Indoor Pool

The 700m2 Royal Spa at this hotel includes an indoor swimming pool with specific requirements (swim cap mandatory, no under 16s). It offers a Vichy shower, three relaxation areas, sauna, steam room, and a hot tub.

Hotel for Honeymoon

Hotel with Spa

Family Friendly Hotel

Romantic Hotel

Business Hotel

Accessible Hotel

Hotel with Gym

5-Star Hotel

Hotel with Rooftop Pool

Hotel with Heated Pool

Room Types

Double Room with River View This luxurious room comes with scenic views over the river. It allies innovation and comfort with the simplicity that characterizes the region. The room has a work desk, WiFi connection, air conditioning and a balcony with unique views.

Twin Room with River View A cozy, modern and elegant room, perfect for business or leisure. It has a work desk, WiFi connection, air conditioning and a balcony with a unique view over the river.

Suite with River View Located at the top of the building, these suites are luxurious and carefully decorated. With the Douro landscapes as the background, it has an ample seating area, air conditioning and a spacious terrace.

Double Room with River View - Romantic Package This package includes: - One-night stay in a double room with river view; - Breakfast buffet; - Sparkling wine and bonbons in the room upon arrival; - Romantic decoration in the room; - Special surprise in the room; - Candlelit Dinner for 2 people at the Palato D'Ouro Restaurant with Chef's Menu and drinks included; - Feet, hands or scalp ritual (20 minutes); - Free access to the spa's relaxation area; - 20% discount on spa treatments; - Upgrade to Suite with River View, subject to availability; - Late check-out until 15:00, subject to availability.

Double Deluxe Offering free toiletries and bathrobes, this double room includes a private bathroom with a shower, a hairdryer and slippers. The spacious air-conditioned double room offers a flat-screen TV with cable channels, soundproof walls, a minibar, a tea and coffee maker as well as river views. The unit offers 1 bed.

Double Deluxe Premium Offering free toiletries and bathrobes, this double room includes a private bathroom with a shower, a hairdryer and slippers. The spacious air-conditioned double room offers a flat-screen TV with cable channels, soundproof walls, a minibar, a tea and coffee maker as well as river views. The unit has 1 bed.

About Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa

License: 6069

Guest Reviews

8.7

Very Good

Location

Nestled in the heart of the Douro Valley, the Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa offers an exceptional escape with its breathtaking views of the Douro River. This stunningly situated hotel captivates with its serene and picturesque setting, making it a haven for those seeking tranquility. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's prime location as a standout feature, seamlessly blending natural beauty with modern elegance. The views from the rooms and the spectacular infinity pool overlooking the river are frequently described as mesmerizing, offering a perfect backdrop for relaxation. The hotel's proximity to nature provides a peaceful retreat away from the bustling city, ideal for unwinding with its idyllic and romantic environment. Despite being somewhat distant from local wineries, the hotel's location remains a cherished asset for guests, offering a unique opportunity to immerse in the Douro's magnificent landscapes. Overall, the Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa's combination of an exceptional setting and superb facilities establishes it as an unbeatable destination for anyone looking to enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of the Douro Valley.

Breakfast

Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa offers an exceptional breakfast experience that is praised extensively by its guests. The breakfast buffet is celebrated for its abundant variety and high quality, featuring a wide array of options that cater to diverse tastes. The offerings include everything from healthy choices to delightful treats, complemented by well-prepared dishes and great coffee. The service provided by the breakfast staff is frequently highlighted as excellent, contributing to the overall enjoyment of the meal.

Guests enjoying breakfast can also appreciate the serene views, adding to a peaceful start to their day. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, a few reviewers noted the occasional lack of attention to detail, such as missing items and a need for quicker replenishment during the busiest times. Additionally, while most find the selection complete and varied, a few suggest room for improvement in variety and quality to align more closely with a five-star standard. Nonetheless, the breakfast at Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa is consistently regarded as a standout feature of the guest experience, offering a satisfying start to a relaxing day in the beautiful setting of the Douro Valley.

Dinner

The Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa presents a mixed dining experience for its guests, with many highlighting both positive and negative aspects of the hotel restaurant's offerings. The hotel provides a beautifully decorated setting and an inviting atmosphere for dinner, accompanied by exceptionally friendly staff and service. The cuisine is praised for its great taste and presentation, with dishes that offer a distinct departure from typical regional flavors, providing guests with enjoyable culinary experiences. Exceptional meals are crafted by a chef at the hotel restaurant, occasionally offering stunning dishes that receive high praise.

Nonetheless, some guests find the dinner options to be limited and not entirely up to the standards expected from a five-star establishment, with a few describing the food as average or even overpriced for the quality provided. Portions tend to be small, appealing more to gourmet dining enthusiasts, yet significant service delays can detract from the experience, sometimes resulting in cold dishes. These inconsistencies, along with a perceived lack of variety and higher charges for room service, have led to guest recommendations to consider alternate dining options in the nearby area for better value and traditional Portuguese cuisine. Despite these drawbacks, many guests appreciated the quality and taste of the meals, particularly acknowledging delightful breakfasts and captivating views, ensuring that the dining experience at Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa remains a memorable aspect of their stay.

Rooms

Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa offers guests an impressive experience with its stunning rooms, characterized by ample space and remarkable comfort. The majority of reviews highlight the exceptional views overlooking the Douro River, which can be admired from the balconies present in all rooms. Guests frequently describe the rooms as clean, modern, and equipped with all necessary amenities. Many found the beds super comfortable, making for restful nights. Suite accommodations are particularly praised for their tasteful décor, and generous size, with some featuring private terraces and gardens with river views.

Nonetheless, a few areas for improvement are mentioned, such as inconsistencies with maintenance, particularly regarding room furnishings and bathroom conditions. A handful of reviews expressed expectations for higher attention to detail that are characteristic of a five-star hotel. Despite minor issues, the setting and location of the hotel, coupled with responsive staff, contribute positively to the overall guest experience. This elegant establishment offers a picturesque backdrop, promising relaxation and enjoyment with its access to both indoor and outdoor pool areas.

Beds

The reviews of the beds at Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa present a picture of mixed experiences among guests. Many visitors highlight the super comfortable beds and spacious rooms, appreciating the hotel for providing very comfortable bedding and pillows that contribute to a restful night's sleep. Some guests even describe the beds as the most comfortable they have ever slept in, noting the excellent quality of the bedding. Several reviews emphasize the allure of the comfy beds and the overall comfort of the rooms. However, a handful of guests point out issues with hard or worn-out mattresses, which detracted from their sleep quality. Additionally, while the majority found the beds to be very comfortable, there were occasional mentions of discomfort due to mattresses that showed signs of wear or were either too soft or hard. Despite these few setbacks, the prevailing sentiment is positive, with many guests enjoying their stay due to the welcoming and cozy sleeping arrangements.

Cleanliness

The Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa is generally praised for its cleanliness, an aspect that many guests found impressive during their stay. The hotel is described as extremely clean, with well-maintained spaces, and the cleanliness of both rooms and common areas often being highlighted as a notable feature. Guests appreciated the orderly and fragrant environments, contributing to a pleasant ambiance. The modern design of the hotel adds to its appeal, with many noting the tidy and organized facilities.

However, some aspects of maintenance and cleaning were under scrutiny. Some guests pointed out areas needing improvement, such as humidity issues in bathrooms and cleaning of windows, suggesting these did not meet the expectations of a 5-star establishment. Feedback highlighted specific areas, including indoor pools and occasional delays in room cleaning, which did not quite match the overall high standards. Despite these points, the generally immaculate condition of the hotel and the efforts of the hotel staff in maintaining a clean and welcoming environment were well-received by most visitors.

Staff

When visiting the Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa, guests can generally expect a warm, friendly environment created by an attentive and professional staff. Many reviews highlight the consistent friendliness and helpfulness of various team members, ranging from the reception to the spa. The staff are often described as efficient, engaging, and service-minded, making an effort to assist guests with any needs or requests. The hospitality of the spa staff is particularly notable for its friendliness and attentiveness.

Professionalism is evident throughout the hotel, with staff members striving to ensure customer satisfaction by offering thoughtful, polite, and prompt assistance. While guests mention some inconsistency in service levels and interactions, particularly with the restaurant staff, the overall impression is positive. Even under challenging circumstances, such as during busy periods or when trainees are learning the ropes, the team remains committed to providing a welcoming and pleasant experience.

The hotel's friendly atmosphere is complemented by courteous team members who are always ready to help and provide guidance. Despite occasional feedback about a lack of warmth from certain staff or slower service times, most guests appreciate the efforts made by the team to deliver a quality experience.

Wi-Fi

Visitors to the Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa have frequently reported challenges with Wi-Fi connectivity, a surprising issue for a 5-star establishment. Many guests experienced poor or nonexistent Wi-Fi in their rooms, as well as in common areas like the pool and terraces. The service has been described as unstable, with weak signals often resulting in an unreliable connection. Despite these criticisms, a few guests did note instances where the Wi-Fi network performed excellently, suggesting that improvements may be periodically made or that service quality can vary by location within the hotel. Overall, while the hotel offers an opportunity to disconnect and enjoy its scenic surroundings, those requiring consistent internet access might need to manage their expectations.

Spa

The Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa offers a mixed spa experience, drawing both high praise and some critiques from guests. Many visitors express their delight with the overall spa experience, describing the service as top-notch and the treatments, particularly massages, as excellent. The friendly and professional staff are frequently highlighted as a positive aspect, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. The spa area, though praised for its breathtaking views from its rooftop location, receives criticism for being small and outdated, which some feel does not meet the standards of a 5-star hotel. Guests appreciate the diverse selection of treatments inspired by local philosophies but note that the amenities could benefit from refurbishment. The spa has been described as pleasant and attractive, yet some feel that its facilities and decor fall short of the expectations for luxury. Despite these shortcomings, the spa remains a well-regarded element of the hotel, contributing significantly to the overall guest experience.

Gym

The gym at Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa offers a basic and somewhat compact space for fitness enthusiasts. While some guests found the equipment to be technically functional and maintained, several reviews noted that the machines are outdated, with some being noisy or non-operational. Despite its small size, the gym meets basic workout needs, though it might not align with the expectations of a five-star hotel. Overall, the fitness center provides essential workout conditions, but could benefit from renovation to enhance its facilities.

Pool

The pool offerings at the Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa are a stunning highlight, providing guests with unforgettable experiences. The centerpiece is undoubtedly the outdoor infinity pool, often praised for its spectacular views of the Douro River. Its spacious and well-maintained area allows for ample relaxation and exercise. Visitors frequently mention the tranquil and beautiful setting, which offers a perfect backdrop for escaping stress.

The heated outdoor pool garners appreciation, particularly for providing a welcoming swim even during cooler periods, although some guests note that it may not always be heated. The rooftop location of the pools adds to their charm, enticing guests to linger and absorb the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding valley.

While the outdoor pool often takes the spotlight, the indoor pool also offers heated waters and facilities like waterfalls and multi-jet spots, although it can sometimes become crowded and may require refurbishment. The hotel's strategically placed pools, coupled with their exceptional vistas, are central to the overall alluring experience offered by the Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa.

Parking

At Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa, guests will find parking facilities that stand out for convenience and accessibility, making it a top choice among accommodations in Portugal. The hotel offers a secure, underground parking lot that is not only spacious but also private, providing peace of mind for those traveling with vehicles. The parking area is enclosed and covered, offering protection from the elements, and is notably accommodating for sports cars. Guests can enjoy the benefit of free parking right on site, with direct access to reception areas, streamlining the process for check-in and check-out. The ease of using the facility is reflected in its organized structure and ample space, ensuring plenty of room for vehicles. Overall, the parking experience is a seamless part of the stay, complemented by the hotel's prime location, stunning views, and excellent breakfast offerings.

Family

Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa offers a welcoming environment for families seeking a memorable stay, complete with excellent accommodations and a beautiful location. Many guests appreciate the hotel's family-friendly atmosphere, enjoying good facilities and the provision of cribs for babies. Families have found their stays to be pleasant and fun, with the hotel highly recommended for family holidays and relaxing getaways.

However, some suggest that while the hotel is indeed suitable for families, it could enhance its offerings by providing separate spaces for children's activities and more kid-friendly meals. While there is a children's club, guests noted that it seemed to be rundown and not always open, which limited available activities for kids. Some visitors believe that introducing evening activities or pool-side entertainment could further enrich the family experience. Despite these areas for improvement, the hotel remains a popular choice for families seeking quality time together amidst a picturesque setting.

5 Star

The Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa, while set in a scenic location, appears to fall short of the expectations typically associated with a five-star hotel. Many guests have highlighted the inadequacy of the facilities and services, with the spa notably disappointing and some parts of the building in need of renovation. The hotel seems to struggle to meet the standards that its five-star rating promises, with comments pointing out that the interiors lack the luxurious touch expected at this level. The restaurant’s quality and the breakfast service are also areas of concern, indicating a disparity between the advertised and experienced quality.

Guests have noted that the staff, while generally pleasant, do not consistently deliver the premium service one would anticipate from a top-tier establishment. Moreover, there are issues with maintenance and overall organization within the hotel, further detracting from the luxury experience promised by its rating. Despite these shortcomings, visitors have appreciated the stunning views and accessibility, suggesting that while the hotel has potential, it requires significant improvements to align its offerings with the expectations set by its five-star classification.

Infinity Pool

The Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa boasts a remarkable infinity pool that consistently impresses its guests. This outdoor feature, located on the rooftop, offers a stunning view of the Douro River, creating a scenic backdrop that enhances the overall experience. Guests frequently express delight at discovering this pool alongside the hotel’s spa area, and many cite it as a major reason for their stay. The infinity pool is described as extraordinarily long, providing ample space to enjoy the fantastic views. While some guests feel it could be larger, many more are enchanted by its breathtaking vistas and the unexpected surprise it offers. The combination of the rooftop bar and pool creates a memorable setting, inviting guests to relax and unwind while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

Outdoor Pool

Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa boasts an exceptional outdoor pool that guests frequently praise for its beauty and tranquil surroundings. The infinity pool offers breathtaking views of the picturesque Douro River, enhancing the overall atmosphere of relaxation and luxury. Located in a splendid setting, the pool provides plenty of space for guests to unwind and enjoy the scenic landscape. The pool is heated, allowing access beyond traditional opening dates, and is perfect for its intended purposes. Visitors often highlight the inspiring views and peaceful ambiance as key aspects of their positive experiences. Despite occasional comments about uncomfortable pool chairs, the overwhelming sentiment is one of admiration for the pool's design and the stunning vistas it affords. Complemented by excellent spa facilities, this outdoor pool stands out as a cornerstone of the hotel's appeal, coupled with friendly staff, great breakfasts, and a beautiful setting that collectively make for a memorable stay.

Indoor Pool

The Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa offers guests the comfort of heated indoor pools, appreciated for their spaciousness and pleasant temperature. Positioned within a spa hotel that is praised for its cleanliness and organization, the pools are augmented by the hotel's beautiful views, creating a serene setting for relaxation. However, some guests note that the indoor pools are considered small for the hotel's size, with occasional maintenance issues such as missing tiles and cleanliness concerns. Additionally, swim caps are required for use, though not always provided by the hotel. The indoor pool is located on a different floor from the sauna and hammam, necessitating a brief journey through the hotel's many corridors. Despite these minor drawbacks, the indoor pools serve as a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring Douro Valley.

Luxury

Nestled by the river, Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa boasts a breathtaking location that many guests find appealing. The hotel offers a modern and elegant ambiance, and while it is undeniably comfortable, the decor and furnishings seem to fall short of the chic sophistication expected from a five-star establishment. While the scenery is deemed worth the visit, some guests have noted that certain areas of the hotel, such as the spa, sauna, and gym, appear dated and do not deliver the luxury one might anticipate from a high-end retreat.

Although the room settings are described as luxurious, the overall experience has been perceived by some as lacking in the opulence typically associated with such a high rating. Small details such as damaged walls and humidity contribute to the sentiment that the hotel doesn't fully meet five-star expectations. Additionally, the price-quality ratio seems to leave room for improvement, especially concerning the spa and relaxation experiences.

Service does make a positive impression, aligning more closely with a five-star level. Yet, there is a sense among guests that the grandeur suggested by the hotel's rating is somewhat overstated. While the location and pool offer undeniable charm, there are underlying expectations around the property's aesthetic and amenities that, for some, remain unmet.

Romantic

Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of the Douro valley, the Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa stands out as a prime destination for couples seeking romance and tranquility. The hotel consistently delights its guests with its breathtaking river views from balconies and the relaxing experience of lounging by the panoramic pool. The rooms are described as comfortable and spacious, providing the perfect setting for a romantic escape. Stays are often highlighted by special touches for occasions such as honeymoons and anniversaries, where the hotel staff goes the extra mile with thoughtful gestures like wine arrangements and charming room decorations.

Guests find the atmosphere of the hotel to be peaceful, making it ideal for unwinding and sharing intimate moments. The friendly and attentive staff, particularly noted during breakfast, enhance the experience with their warm hospitality. With its romantic packages, beautiful gardens, and generally calm ambiance, the hotel offers a uniquely romantic experience. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a getaway, the Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa is a remarkable choice for those seeking to enjoy the timeless beauty of the Douro region with a loved one.

Yes, Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Infinity Pool, Heated Pool, Indoor Pool, Rooftop Pool, Panoramic View Pool, Outdoor Pool. For more information, read the answers to the Pool questionnaire

Yes, a spa is available at Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa.

No, Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa doesn't allow dogs.

Yes, parking facilities are available at Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa.

Yes, Douro Royal Valley Hotel & Spa has a gym.

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