Pestana Douro Riverside - Preferred Hotels & Resorts, Lifestyle

3km out of the hustle and bustle which suited us and a cheap uber when we wanted to be in the thick of it. Lovely setting overlooking the river with a great sunbathing and pool area. Rooms were clean and comfortable. Food at breakfast was delicious with lots to choose from. Staff accommodating with requests.

Water pressure was low on the shower and taps and took a long time to heat up. Wasn’t as powerful as I would have liked. Although staff were helpful we found out things as we went along rather than staff informing us. For example you could order an omelette for breakfast but this wasn’t advertised.

The room was very comfortable and clean. The sheets and pillows were very comfortable. The breakfast is regular.

The hotel is very well located, with excellent facilities and a beautiful, welcoming atmosphere. What stood out most was the exceptional service from the reception team. We were very warmly received and given a detailed explanation of the hotel’s history, as well as excellent guidance and recommendations about the city. The team genuinely made us feel welcome and well cared for. After checkout, they kindly arranged to store our luggage and invited us to continue enjoying the hotel facilities until our departure time. This level of hospitality made our stay truly special.

Nothing significant to mention. We were very satisfied with the hotel, the facilities, and especially the excellent service.

Breakfast, view.

The room was small for a 5 star hotel. There was not room for a second case to put out for emptying. Staff were friendly but not always competent (e.g. breakfast opened late due to someone oversleeping who had the key, it was difficult to get a clear understanding of the boat trips with lots of "I don't know" and one person had no clue about the parking but someone else did). The cleanliness was not good for a 5-star hotel. Towels, empty drink bottles, empty glasses were left around the pool area and bar. The hand towels in the bathroom are not easy to reach being under the sink (and I am small). Bar/food pricing is a rip-off for what is offered (e.g. the nachos at 12EUR were not worth it). Pool opening times were not adhered to (why have them if they don't mean anything?). People were reserving sun lounges with towels (it's 5-star not 2). There was only one coffee machine at breakfast. The door of the ramp entrance was shut so we had to take the bags up the steps. There is more I could write but you get the idea. It does not deserve 5 stars. It is acceptable but certainly not a highlight.