A Beautiful Seaside Escape to Vila Foz Hotel
Since moving to Portugal, we’ve taken full advantage of short getaways to nearby towns and cities.
This past weekend was no exception when J and I celebrated our 11 year anniversary together.
We wanted a quick and easy escape without subjecting ourselves to the throws of summertime tourist crowds. After weeks of being on-the-go, we were itching for somewhere quiet, nearby and above all, relaxing.
So, when we stumbled on Hotel Vila Foz, right on the Atlantic coast (and 4 miles from Porto city center), we knew we found the right place.
Getting There
We took a Bolt, which was only a 40 minute drive for us from Braga.
However, the hotel is only 20 minutes from central Porto and 15 minutes from the airport (OPO).
The Property
This boutique 68-room hotel consists of two primary buildings:
- The hundred-year-old former manor house (where reception, bar, and restaurants reside)
- A modern four-story structure where the hotel rooms and spa sit
The mossy green color, Spanish tile roof, and gorgeous cornicing give the manor house a stately presence along with steeples that perfectly punctuate the exterior.
Walking into the reception hall, we were taken aback by the rich millwork that adorned the walls and ceilings as well as the beautiful antique chandeliers hanging throughout the adjacent bar. It’s vintage refinement at its best and the cozy feel immediately enveloped us.
Room with a View
After a quick check-in process, we were ushered to our top-floor room with views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It was a cloudy day when we arrived but that didn’t distract from its beauty.
The room was tranquil with wave and water motifs incorporated throughout the interior design (e.g., headboard, carpeting, etc.), similar to the rest of the hotel.
Plus, the products were top notch and included brands like Codage Paris and Marvis (which is our fave!).
But the best part is the sweet little surprise Vila Foz left for us, in honor of our anniversary: a bottle of espumante (Portuguese sparkling wine) as well as a delightful chocolate cake. So thoughtful!
Bom Apetite
After checking out our room, we headed back to the bar for a bite before dinner. I had a cappuccino and we shared salmon ceviche, which was yum!
For our anniversary dinner later that night, we dined at Fleur de Lis, one of two restaurants on the property led by Chef Azevedo.
We started out with vinho verde as well as salmon tacos and goat cheese salad followed by two orders of pasta – squid ink and pesto. The dishes were very tasty (though they both needed a tad more salt). That said, we were delighted when the staff surprised us with a chocolate and raspberry dessert that was positively delicious!
If you enjoy experiential dining, then check out the hotel’s second restaurant and namesake, Vila Foz. It was recently awarded a Michelin star and offers three tasting menus:
- Maresia | Seafood
- Novo Mundo | Vegetarian
- Kitchen Seat | Birdseye view into the kitchen to watch and talk to Chef Azevedo while your meal is prepared
Whenever we go back again, we’re definitely going to try the Kitchen Seat experience!
At Your Service
The service at Vila Foz was impeccable – the staff were incredibly friendly and attentive; moreover, we appreciated all of the surprise and delight moments offered throughout our stay.
Sweet touches are their M.O. like the straw hats in our room – to wear on hot days – or the soft wool blanket folded on our chair to curl up in on cool nights.
Those touches even extend to activities too; for instance, if you’re an activity seeker, the hotel can arrange everything from a Douro cruise to bike tour to wine tasting.
The Spa
I planned to visit the spa on our last day but we didn’t have enough time; we stopped in the day before to scope it out and it’s a stunner. It contains an indoor pool, sauna, and treatment rooms for facials, massages, etc.
Since they use Codage Paris products, I’m sure every service is a real treat!
Surf & Sand
Unfortunately, the weather was not ideal for some beach time. But we were pleased to see that there were a bevy of beach clubs and restaurants all along the water.
On a sunnier day, you’d be able to snag a beach-side chair and umbrella to soak up the rays.
Overall, we had a wonderful stay at Vila Foz and we cannot wait to visit again!
