The Editory Artist Hotel, Porto, Portugal - Explore & Book
"Creativity is at the heart of The Editory Artist Hotel. Having functioned as an art college for decades, remnants of the building's heritage are everywhere. Old report cards are pinned up on walls, and paintings and sculptures by former students are exhibited in every room – look closely and you might even spot the grade each student was awarded for their masterpiece. Today, education takes on a new form: the hotel is fully run and managed by protégé students from the local tourism school, so all staff are young, eager, and out to impress.Upon our arrival, we were greeted by friendly faces and treated to a very welcome glass of port wine with some local sweet treats. Everything inside felt gloriously retro, with plump settees and antique writing desks in the 17 bedrooms, bold colours and patterned prints in the dining room, and artworks everywhere. The restaurant serves ‘surprise’ five- or seven-course tasting menus that change daily, and we were truly bowled over by the standard – little wonder the hotel is gaining quite the culinary reputation across the city. Step outside onto the quiet street and you'll find a bustling shopping area five minutes' walk away, plus the city's main sights beyond. Secluded, stylish and wonderfully unique: just what we love. Highs The innovative tasting menu is delicious and very reasonably pricedThe hotel provides you with a smartphone upon check-in which is preloaded with maps, walking tours and recommendations Rooms are large for a city hotel, especially the Library Suite which has a separate dining/seating areaYou get a glass of port wine and traditional cake on arrival - a nice touchSet in a quieter area of Porto so you can’t hear any street noise from the rooms Lows The majority of staff are students so naturally the service may not always be 100%, although we found staff to be charming and very well trainedThey cater for events in the main bar area, so it's sometimes closed to guestsThe hotel is located away from the central tourist areas, but sights are within easy walking distanceA limited breakfast during weekends (buffet only)" - Sophie Potter
