You’ve read about it many times: the serene tranquility of Portugal’s Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its overwhelming landscapes, its rich viticulture, and its captivating history. You already know this. What you might ignore is a hotel that goes by the name of Octant Douro, a 40 minute drive from Porto. And the Octant, trust us, will change your notion of the whole Douro experience.
Most hotels in the region flood the traveler with “experiences” and “sensations”, and this can be overwhelming. Here, freedom of movement is the most valuable idea.
The architecture is modern but discreet – a companion to the stupendous nature around it. The service is stupendous, but serene – the guest owns the time. There’s plenty to explore around, yes – a simple canoe trip, for example –, not to produce “memorable experiences” but to create the ideal conditions for absorbing the Douro in privacy.
Every room – every single room – has a sensational window overlooking the river. There are four restaurants, obeying the mastery of chef Dárcio Henriques (and, there you go, gastronomic trips are organized on request). The spa is a temple not to be missed.
Give it a try, and change your personal history.
