Pestana Douro Riverside - Preferred Hotels & Resorts, Lifestyle

We had a great stay will certainly be staying again. The staff were friendly and most helpful and the facilities were great.

The parking needs a little more space.

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.

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.