Overview

From the moment you arrive, you will be captivated by the ornate architecture and majestic beauty of the Pousada do Porto, Palacio do Freixo Hotel – a luxurious holiday destination on the banks of the enchanting Douro River. Situated close to the city of Porto, the Pousada offers an irresistible combination of contemporary accommodation and an authentic cultural experience.

Originally designed by visionary Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni, the floor-to-ceiling opulence of this 18th-century baroque palace has been painstakingly restored. Featuring traditional Portuguese azulejos and intricate fresco ceilings, this historic inn was classified as a national monument and opened its doors in 2009.

Palacio do Freixo guests are accommodated in spacious rooms with mesmerising river views in the adjacent Harmonia Flour Factory, which has also been handsomely renovated. The hotel’s leisure facilities include a superb spa and a sophisticated restaurant serving traditional local cuisine.

Take a quiet stroll through the wonderful gardens and experience the tranquillity of the riverside infinity pool – a truly exquisite place to watch the world go by. Attentive staff offer excellent service to ensure your every need is satisfied. Come experience the unique treasures of the palatial Pousada do Porto – a relaxed and refined base for a city break or romantic retreat.

Accommodation

Guests staying at the Pousada do Porto are accommodated in the restored Harmonia Flour Factory, which is connected to the palace by a covered passageway. The salmon pink façade has been carefully preserved and complements the interior’s sleek, contemporary design, lush carpets, chrome furnishings and sophisticated colour palette. Adjoining rooms can be organised for families travelling together and windows can be opened to enjoy the wonderful views and a breath of fresh air. Standard features include access to Wi-Fi, LCD television with international cable channels, air conditioning, minibar, in-room safe and direct-dial telephone. Modern marble bathrooms contain a combined shower and bath, luxury amenities, hairdryer, bathrobes and slippers. All rooms are soundproofed.

Standard Room: Elegantly furnished, the Standard Rooms offer a comfortable place to relax, featuring twin or king-size beds, a desk, sitting area and views of the Pousada’s beautiful gardens.

Superior Room: The refined Superior Rooms offer captivating views of the Douro river. Guests are accommodated in spacious rooms with minimalist modern decor. An extra bed can be added to accommodate up to three guests.

Dining

Throughout Portugal, pousadas are renowned for their celebration of cultural heritage and attention to local gastronomy. Álvaro Costa, head chef of Freixo Palace Hotel, has created an elaborate menu that specialises in seafood and focuses on traditional northern Portuguese cuisine including tripe, cod, desserts and the famous francesinha. Guests will be delighted by modern food combinations featuring regional and international influences. The prompt, courteous service will enhance your dining experience at the pousada.

Restaurante da Pousada: The dining room of the restaurant is bathed in natural light and features elegant modern furnishings. Guests enjoy a complimentary buffet breakfast and a gourmet selection of cuisine for lunch and dinner. Vegetarian options are also available.

Bar Nasoni: The marvellous Bar Nasoni serves a wide assortment of exceptional local wines and Port wine varieties. Marvel at the sublime interiors and beautiful antique furnishings while you enjoy a drink or snack.

Bar da Piscina: Open during spring and summer, the lovely Bar da Piscina is situated next to the swimming pool and offers a superb selection of cocktails and refreshments.

Facilities

Outstanding leisure facilities at Pousada do Porto include an inviting infinity pool situated in front of the hotel, with perfectly positioned sunbeds and sunshades so visitors can enjoy the fantastic water views. To take advantage of the Pousada’s superb location, the lovely open-air lounge on the pier is also an idyllic place to relax.

Luxurious spa facilities include a sublime indoor pool, modern gymnasium, sauna and Turkish bath. A wide selection of revitalising beauty rituals and massage treatments are also available.

The aristocratic Sala dos Espelhos (Hall of Mirrors) is a lavishly decorated space where guests can truly appreciate the Pousada’s opulent baroque architecture, gilded wood carvings, remarkable frescos and distinctive Renaissance paintings.

The hotel’s reception, restaurant and lounge areas are also richly adorned, while the majestic function rooms offer a welcome change from the conventional meeting spaces found in many hotels.

Standard features include 24-hour reception, room service, free parking, laundry service, fax and photocopying facilities. Guests can access the Internet using two computers near reception and Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel for a small fee.