In response to the increased demand for accommodation in the region, Quinta do Vallado opens, in March 2012, its new Country Hotel. The Traditional House, that once belonged to Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira – the legendary Ferreirinha – and is now managed by her great-grandsons, had already five rooms available. It worked as a Guest House and will keep full availability, although integrated in the new Hotel. This new wine tourism project is now more skilled and diverse, offering a whole new dimension that will make the difference in all those who stay there.

The project of the new Hotel has the signature of the architect Francisco Vieira de Campos, who chose to follow the architectural language of the cellar. Surrounded by vineyards, orchards, and aromatic gardens, the Country Hotel at Quinta do Vallado now offers two buildings with very different set-ups, unifying tradition and modernity in a whole experience of Douro and its unique atmosphere. The interiors are full of references to a northern-European vintage style, sharing its surroundings with national materials in a perfect balance. The fireplaces in the common areas call for moments of pure dolce far niente or cosy gatherings with friends – duly accompanied, of course, by a bottle of the nectar masterfully produced in this historical farm.

Quinta do Vallado is a unique project, placing itself at the highest level within the wine tourism sector. Its guests receive daily treats, such as turndown service, a bottle of Vallado red wine in every room and an exquisite, yet traditional, breakfast with several, but traditional, homemade delicacies.

The outside surroundings were designed in detail. The sunny days invite the guests for a swim at the pool, located at an idyllic hillside faced to the river Corgo, among vineyards and fruit trees. There is also the chance of having a massage (by appointment), guided walks, bicycle riding, boat cruises, fishing sessions, country picnics, traditional cooking classes, wine tastings and wine tasting classes.

The culinary offer keeps focused in regional and homemade products and wines, but are now more diverse. It will always be possible to have light meals in different places in the property. The menu will consist on tapas, regional cheeses and sausages, salads and sandwiches. The Casa da Ramada, an old building with fireplace or foliage for summer days, is still open for group lunches or dinners, by appointment. In this case, the meals will always be composed by traditional menus and accompanied by Vallado wines.

The new Quinta do Vallado’s Hotel is more than a wine tourism place: it gives every guest a whole experience of leisure, culture and welfare. This is something one cannot explain – you must try it yourself. It is more than worth to take a weekend or the next vacations to get to know Douro and Quinta do Vallado!

Speaking of Douro Tourism …

Everyone reading should watch this fine video, providing a nostalgic look at Douro: