Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas has unveiled its first resort in Europe. Located in the beautiful Portuguese UNESCO World Heritage area of the Douro Valley, the property is touched with the romance of 19th century architecture wedded to contemporary interiors reflecting the inimitable Six Senses style. The resort covers ten hectares (22 acres) and comprises 57 guest rooms and Suites which range from Superior, Deluxe, River rooms to spacious suites and villas with one, two and three bedrooms. With a décor of light greys and sandy tones, New York based Clodagh Design has created rooms with eco-friendly materials blending nature, Portuguese tradition and the elements of water, nature, space, stone and wood.
Chef Paulo Matos heads the culinary team at Six Senses Douro Valley and will embrace his passion for local flavours by offering guests dishes and sharing plates created using traditional open fire ovens and clay pots. Both the all-day dining restaurant and specialty restaurant draw upon the abundant fresh produce of the verdant valley and surrounding countryside, as well as from the resort’s own gardens.
Another great entertaining venue is The Wine Library – located at the heart of the resort, featuring a menu of tapas, cheese and smoked hams and local sausage which, when combined with local materials and furnishings, creates an authentic Douro Valley experience. The selection of tempting local charcuterie, cheeses paired with a wide selection of wines by the glass is perfect for learning and celebrating. The room extends onto a covered stone terrace with comfortable armchairs and firepit. An interactive and instructional programme presents leading vintages from the area where guests are guided in the varieties and styles by leading Portuguese winemakers from the surrounding valley and the resort’s Wine Directors.
The breakfast room
The expansive Six Senses Spa measures over 2,200 square metres (24,000 square feet) and comprises 10 treatments and heated in-door swimming pool with water jets, steam room, Sauna and Lanconium. The spa menu includes locally-inspired wine based treatments which use grape based products from the Douro region. There is also a Visiting Practitioner programme which features over 100 of the world’s best wellness healers, practitioners and experts. The group’s popular Yogic Detox and Yogic Sleep Programs are also offered appealing to different levels of yoga practitioners.
Within the grounds of the resort there is an outdoor swimming pool with panoramic views of the Douro Valley. Other facilities include an activities hut and gym, housing the latest exercise equipment and on site personal trainers and aerial yoga. For added relaxation, guests can enjoy meditation nests dotted about the forest or simply retire to the library and peruse a book whist enjoying a fine wine or cocktail.