Vidago Palace
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Vidago Palace: A reborn icon of Porto
Vidago Palace opened in 1910 and over 100 years later still maintains the same splendour, service and conviviality for which it was immediately known. Having charmed generations of travellers, it was reborn in 2010, being totally remodelled yet preserving the architectural heritage of the buildings. It is, once again, confirmed as a benchmark among the best historic hotels of Europe. It impresses at every turn; from the 70 rooms and suites to the Thermal Spa with 20 treatment rooms, and the 18-hole course to the six restaurants and bars. It is hardly surprising Vidago Palace – located about one hour from Oporto and 15 minutes from Chaves – has been classified as one of the Leading Hotels of The World.
The golf course
A nine-hole course was laid out by the famous Mackenzie Ross in 1936. It was extended sympathetically by Cameron & Powell to USGA specifications while reflecting the distinctive beauty of its environment in. Characterised by elevated greens and tees, strategic bunkering and subtle greens, it both delights and challenges. The first four holes within Centennial Park give a flavour of the following 11 built from scratch in the Oura Valley. The last three are played at the top of Centennial Park with a magnificent and breathtaking view of hills and villages. Finally, the Golf Clinic is staffed by a highly-qualified professional and offers exceptional value.
Food & wine
There are a myriad activities at Vidago Palace. Lovers of cuisine can undertake classes with Chef Rui Paula, where you can learn more about food and prepare different dishes to surprise your loved ones. The Wine Cellar/Storage has the ideal environment for a Wine Tasting, where you can also enjoy snacks. You can even receive a private explanation from the hotel’s Sommelier on the rules for the Blindfolded Tasting of four Wines (two white & two red)! Or what about a private cocktail-making lesson with the Barman?
Other activities
There are various activities in the region and among these are: Pena Aventura Park; excursions in the Douro region (cruises and visits to estates with lunch/wine tastings); visits to the cities of Chaves, Guimarães, Vila Real and Oporto; hiking; mountain biking; Chaves Casino; and theme events such as picking grapes, chestnuts or mushrooms.
The new-look Thermal Spa
Designed by acclaimed architect Álvaro Siza-Vieira, Vidago Palace now has a new Spa. Built on 100 hectares of perfumed cedars, pines and holly, it is a natural extension of the hotel. Inside, white marble is everywhere, the lines are straight, the architecture exact and the furnishings simple. Its waters, extracted from the granite subsoil and recognised for its therapeutic cures, have been sought after by royalty. In association with Clarins and Aromatherapy Associates, the Spa provides a wide range of face and body treatments.
Contact details: Visit www.vidagopalace.com or telephone 00 351 276 990 900.