Hotel Review: Six Senses Douro Valley

About Six Senses Douro Valley

Six Senses Douro Valley is a five-star luxury hotel located in Lamego, Portugal, about a one and a half hour drive from the city of Porto. Previously the home of a wealthy Portuguese family, Six Senses Douro Valley is now part of IHG’s portfolio and is an incredible wellness haven in one of the most beautiful destinations in the world.

Guestrooms and Suites

There are various room types and locations at Six Senses Douro Valley (so let me help you decide which is the best for your stay!) For example, the Quinta River rooms in the original building overlook the Douro River, while the Vineyard rooms are in the newer, modern wing that look out to the surrounding vineyard terraces. During my stay in mid-November (which is low season), I experienced the incredible fall foliage and autumn colors from my Vineyard Deluxe room, which has an expansive patio with sofas and a dining table.

There are also the Valley Rooms, which are located in a separate area off of the main building, and have their own private pool and lounging area - perfect for a family gathering or a small wedding buyout!

As part of the hotel’s comprehensive sleep program, all guests have access to a pillow menu to ensure you get the best night’s sleep!

On property experiences

Six Senses Douro Valley offers a number of one-of-a-kind experiences, many that are complimentary to guests, as part of their weekly activity calendar. You can create your own body scrub in their Alchemy Bar using ingredients grown on property, discover the scents and flavors of wine in the Art of Wine experience, participate in a yoga or HIIT class, and even do a tile painting workshop.

But by far, the spa is the greatest highlight of Six Senses. There is an indoor pool equipped with jet massagers, a cold plunge pool, jacuzzi, and underwater sound bath. Additionally, all guests have access to multiple saunas, steam rooms, a salt room, an herb room, and a cold shower and ice scrub - even without a spa appointment. But you should book a spa treatment, which is in rooms with large windows looking out to the beautiful surroundings!

There are different dining outlets on property, including their main restaurant, Vale de Abraão for lunch and dinner. Breakfast is not to be missed in their open kitchen with freshly baked pastries and breads (like a warm, apple croissant bread pudding!), fruits and vegetables grown in their garden, and a daily menu of healthy options as part of their wellness program. By the way, book with me and I’ll add daily complimentary breakfast for you!

If you are visiting the Douro Valley and staying at Six Senses, I recommend staying for at least three nights (ideally four) to allow yourself enough time to experience the region and enjoy everything Six Senses has to offer. I have a great recommendation for a tour of the Douro Valley, including a boat trip on the Douro River, a unique 4x4 experience with a local guide to the best viewpoints of the valley, and an intimate private tour and tasting of local Moscatel wine - as well as other dining recommendations during your stay.

I highly recommend Six Senses Douro Valley to anyone looking for an unparalleled, luxurious experience in Portugal, or honestly, anywhere in the world. The hotel is perfect for couples, honeymooners, a group of friends, and even intimate weddings!

Reach out to me to start planning your luxe trip to Portugal!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Portugal. In need of further inspiration? Check out Cassie Solaguren’s guide, Lagos, Portugal: A Picture Perfect Paradise.