This seafront mansion-house-turned-boutique-hotel is a decadent throwback to Porto’s golden days.
Located in the smart seaside suburb of Foz, far from the city hustle and bustle, this impressive mansion house has been painstakingly restored and the attention to detail is impeccable – it really does feel like you’ve stepped gloriously back in time.
Dining here is elegant and authentic. At the grand Vila Foz Restaurant, expect gold chandeliers, picture-perfect dishes and a focus on ‘contemporary gastronomy’. For a special dinner, book the exclusive ‘kitchen seat’ experience for two, where the chef will talk you through each dish as he conjures up his creations for you. Or, if you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’ll love the 5 o’clock tea at Vila Foz Bar – it’s taken very seriously here and is something of a ritual. Rooms in the manor house are sumptuous and atmospheric, while the newer rooms are light and bright. Book an Onice Sea View Rooms for a breezy sea-view balcony.
The hotel team encourages its guests to get out and explore the city like a local; they can arrange picnics in the park, put you in touch with local artists and take you to 100-year-old traditional shops. There are also bikes for hire, private yacht trips and wine tours, so itineraries can be designed around your interests, and a shuttle can whisk you into the city centre.


Key information
On the seafront in the charming and upmarket seaside suburb of Foz, 20 minutes from Porto city centre
Good to know
Accommodation information
68 rooms and suites
Activities
• Live like a local and take a picnic hamper to the local city park* • Join the chef on his morning trip to the fish market to choose fish for your dinner* • Cruise the Douro River to the point where it meets the sea on board a private yacht*.
Dining
2 restaurants, 2 bars
What's included
Breakfast at Flor de Lis Restaurant.
*Denotes local charge