The precise explanation of how to reach a desired destination is more important than it seems. You see, when you listen to it, you’re already traveling. So: put yourself in Porto, at the São Bento train station, in the city center. You can do two smart things.
One is to board a coach and get off at the Corgo stop. The other is to hop into a car and take Route 222. Both itineraries are almost always parallel to the impressive course of the River Douro. A couple of hours later (yes, don’t hurry; why hurry?) you’ll reach the city of Régua. And right next to it you’ll find the Torel Quinta da Vacaria Douro Valley hotel, which is “the” place. Are you still with us?
In 1613, Vacaria (which means cowshed, or cow farm) belonged to Gaspar de Sousa, governor-general of Brazil. Soon afterwards it began to produce wine (this is the world-famous Douro wine region, of course). Shortly afterwards, Sousa sold it to the Jesuits, who owned it for almost a century and a half. Then it reverted to civilian ownership, until today. It is therefore one of the oldest continuous wine producers in Europe. And now it’s also a magnificent hotel. The only one in the Douro on an active wine estate.
No more than 33 rooms and suites, with perfect balconies overlooking the river. All facing south, all decorated with natural materials. And next to one of the most memorable swimming pools in the country. The main restaurant is called 16 Legoas. It’s directed by Michelin-starred chef Vítor Matos. It has, there’s no other way of putting it, a perfectly ecological menu.
This is a small universe of privacy and excellence. And from here there are dozens of activities, starting, of course, with outreach programs with the Vacaria wine producers and even taking part in the grape harvest. The river lends itself to various water sports and a private boat trip. On land there are bike routes, hiking in the countryside and a route of belvederes.
The universe of the Torel group is highly respectful of history. It would therefore be unwise not to visit the Quinta da Vacaria Museum. Its exhibition comprises several panels introducing us to the memories of the estate, the river, and everything about the local wines.
Behold, then, the surprising Torel Quinta da Vacaria Douro Valley hotel. We know that “Need we say more?” is an awful journalistic commonplace. But yes, we’re using it anyway.
