Where to Stay in the Douro Valley: Six Senses

Six Senses Douro Valley, a Luxury Getaway in Portugal

Earlier this spring, we took a trip to Portugal . We spent three nights in Lisbon, and then rented a car and drove the five hours to the Douro Valley for two of the most magical days we’ve had anywhere. My husband both agreed that we cannot imagine having better service, better accommodations, or an overall better location to vacate your life. Birds chirp outside your private patio, the infinity pool stretches out into the valley offering a breathtaking way to just “be,” yoga for sleep plays quietly in your room, taking turn down service to a whole new level. In our overly stimulated world, Six Senses is the Calm app come to life. If you want to know where to stay in the Douro Valley, this is the place.

It will transport you, and then bring you back to a better version of you. This is Six Senses Douro Valley, and it’s my next Stylish Stay.

What I Loved: Every single thing! From the glass of port you sip overlooking the River Douro upon check-in, to the infinity pool nestled in the valley, to the huge luxurious rooms with private patios, to the incredible food—this is a hotel to go down in the books. It’s certainly the best hotel in Portugal. In fact, when we checked into The Yeatman in Porto, a 5-star property, they told us they get worried when guests are arriving having been at Six Senses because it’s hard to live up to that experience.

Something to Know: You will want to stay more than two nights, which is what we did and regretted. There are many wineries in the area, but honestly, if you only have a few days, I wouldn’t leave the property unless you really love port. For us, one glass was enough and they give you that at check-in!

Spa Dreams: This is a wellness hotel complete with a fabulous spa that focuses on the sauna experience. I booked the Indian head massage that was one of the dreamiest spa treatments I’ve had anywhere. They also have a personalized wellness program if you’re looking to get trim and fit or cleanse and detox.

Stylish Sips: The restaurant on property is phenomenal. We only ate on property during our stay. The buffet breakfast is one of the best I’ve had anywhere, and we were lucky to arrive in time for the first outdoor BBQ of the season. We dined alfresco family style with other guests of the hotel. There is also a wine library and terrace, where you can do port tastings or come for tapas and a cocktail.

Cool Factor: The hotel is set in a 19th century impeccably renovated manor house. The Six Senses brand cares a lot about sustainability and has pledged to improving the ecological and carbon footprint from activities associated with the hotel. They have an organic garden on property, where much of their food is sourced.

Hero Shot: Virtually any angle of the infinity pool, but I especially love the shot below that showcases the whole property (see below).