The Yeatman Hotel
"Built on a hillside overlooking Vila Nova de Gaia (where most of the old-line port merchants are located) and the Douro River, the luxurious 82-room hotel gets its identity from the local wine trade. The genteel decor takes its cues from the quintas (farms) of local wine grandees, and each room features photographs and accessories contributed by a different Portuguese winemaker. If the low roofline of the six-story building is also inspired by the local architectural vernacular, it stands out as the region’s chic new address with a stunning Caudalie spa and an infinity pool with breathtaking views of Porto across the river. The traditionally decorated rooms have thick wool carpeting, beds with gold-stenciled black-painted wood headboards, and cushy settees and armchairs upholstered in tufted, jewel-toned velvet. Built-in bookcases are lined with titles about the Portuguese wine trade, and spacious bathrooms feature louvered wooden shutters by the tub. In addition to an excellent restaurant, there’s a cozy bar and a cigar lounge, plus a gorgeous indoor swimming pool and a children’s club. The Yeatman runs an inexpensive shuttle down the hill to Porto—a welcome service since this is not an easy city to drive in."
