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Summary of reviewsHotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea provides an enchanting escape nestled within Portugal's lush Douro Valley vineyards and olive groves. Guests are captivated by the majestic 17th-century residence set amidst breathtaking landscapes that offer stunning views and a tranquil retreat. The property is known for its serene atmosphere and captivating gardens, making it an ideal spot for relaxation or exploration.
The dining experience at the hotel is notably praised, particularly its dinner service which features homemade dishes accompanied by quality wines, often sourced from nearby vineyards. The elegant settings, whether indoors before a lit fireplace or al fresco, enhance the delightful ambiance. Breakfast, while satisfying for many with fresh fruits and homemade pastries, offers room for improvement according to a few guests seeking greater variety.
Rooms at the hotel offer a unique historical charm with decor reminiscent of a bygone era. Guests appreciate the spaciousness and stunning countryside views. While the overall atmosphere is grand and comfortable, some areas could benefit from refurbishment, with occasional reports of maintenance issues and cleanliness concerns. Notwithstanding these minor drawbacks, the property remains clean and spacious overall, with welcoming staff adding to the positive experience.
The hospitality at Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea is consistently celebrated, with warm and professional staff and owners making guests feel like part of the family. The beautiful surroundings and vintage furnishings contribute to a memorable visit. The pool, while offering a tranquil setting with splendid views, requires maintenance attention during the off-season.
Families particularly enjoy the communal dining experience and diverse activities, making it a welcoming environment for all ages. While bedding firmness receives mixed reviews, the hotel's historic charm and excellent service are frequently appreciated. Guests are drawn to the property's unique boutique ambiance, evoking a sense of living in a house museum, and its romantic setting provides an idyllic escape for couples.
Overall, Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea offers a remarkable blend of historical elegance and rural charm, promising a unique and unforgettable stay amidst extraordinary natural beauty. Show more
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Hotel near Vineyards
Located in a traditional quinta, this rural hotel offers a glimpse into the region's heritage. Guests can explore the surrounding vineyards and enjoy a peaceful retreat.
Hotel for Honeymoon
This rural hotel offers a peaceful retreat with comfortable accommodations and a charming atmosphere. Its location in Quinta da Varzea provides a serene and intimate setting.
Dog Friendly Hotel
This hotel is a pet-friendly rural retreat, offering a comfortable and welcoming environment for guests and their pets. It provides a tranquil setting in the countryside, perfect for relaxation.
Romantic Hotel
Located in a rural setting, this hotel offers a peaceful retreat with a touch of history. The charming atmosphere and serene surroundings make it ideal for couples seeking a quiet escape.
4-Star Hotel
This hotel offers an authentic Portuguese experience in a historic setting. It has been restored to its former glory, featuring traditional Portuguese decor.
Hotel with Outdoor Pool
Features a charming rural setting with a refreshing outdoor pool. Guests appreciate the tranquility and the opportunity to connect with nature while enjoying a comfortable stay.
Boutique-style Hotel
Family Friendly Hotel
Hotel with Swimming Pool
Outdoor Pool
Business Hotel
Accessible Hotel
Hotel with Tennis Courts
Room Types
Double RoomThis room is decorated with antique furniture and it has 2 double beds. Includes a TV and sofa. The bathroom features 2 washbasins. It also includes a bathrobe, slippers and toiletries.
Triple RoomThis room is decorated with antique furniture and has 2 large double beds. It includes a TV and a sofa. The bathroom features 2 washbasins. It also includes a bathrobe, slippers and toiletries.
Family Room (2 Adults + 2 Children up to 12 years old)This room is decorated with antique furniture and it has 2 double beds. Includes a TV and sofa. The bathroom features 2 washbasins. It also includes a bathrobe, slippers and toiletries.
SuiteThis suite's special feature is the pool with a view. The suite has 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with a bath and free toiletries. The suite offers a seating area, a high chair for children, heating, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, as well as garden views. The unit has 2 beds.
Double or Twin RoomThe unit has 2 beds.
Standard Double RoomThis double room features a pool with a view. Providing free toiletries and bathrobes, this double room includes a private bathroom with a bath, a shower and a bidet. Featuring a balcony with garden views, this double room also provides a seating area and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. The unit offers 2 beds.
About Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea
License: 2895
Guest Reviews
8.6
Very Good
Location
Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea offers a captivating escape nestled within the heart of Portugal's lush vineyards and olive groves. The historic 17th-century residence stands majestically amidst breathtaking landscapes that delight guests with stunning views of vineyards and rolling hills, providing a tranquil retreat steeped in charm and history. The location is idyllic, characterized by its quiet, serene ambiance and the seamless connection guests feel with nature. The property's exquisite garden and scenic surroundings create a peaceful atmosphere that makes this a perfect place for relaxation or a base to explore the Douro Valley. Despite its remote access, the unique beauty and authenticity of the estate guarantee an unforgettable experience, with inviting rooms and beautifully decorated guest spaces that add to the old-world charm of this exceptional setting.
Breakfast
Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea offers a breakfast experience that has left many guests satisfied, though with room for improvement according to some. The breakfast service is set in a remarkably beautiful dining room with elegant decor, often described as worthy of nobility. The spread includes an array of fresh and delicious options such as fresh fruit—a highlight being grapes and figs directly from the property. Homemade pastries and various breads receive specific praise for their quality. Guests appreciate the availability of scrambled eggs, made fresh on request, setting them apart from typical hotel breakfasts.
Several reviewers commend the breakfast as being very complete and generous, with enough variety to find something pleasing for most palates. Croissants, coffee, fresh bread, and a selection of cold meats are frequently mentioned as delicious components.
However, there are suggestions for enhancing the experience—some guests feel that a wider variety of options, including cakes and more juice selections, could elevate the meal significantly. Others mention the limited availability of hot options and the need for higher quality, locally sourced products.
While there were mentions of the timing and cleanliness having room for improvement, the friendly staff and the unique setting often compensate for these minor issues. Overall, the breakfast at Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea is an experience cherished by many, combining good food with a distinctive sense of place.
Dinner
Guests of Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea frequently express high praise for the dining experience. The dinner service is characterized by a combination of good food and attentive service, often served in charming and elegant settings like a stunning dining hall or in front of a lit fireplace, contributing to a delightful atmosphere. The option of al fresco dining adds to the unique charm of the experience.
The dinner is commonly offered as a buffet with a wide variety of homemade, well-prepared dishes accompanied by good wines, often sourced from the surrounding vineyards. The inclusion of wine and drinks in the meal price is appreciated, though there are differing opinions on the value, with some guests considering it overpriced compared to the culinary experience provided.
Guests enjoy interactions at large communal tables, adding a social dimension to the meal. While the food is generally described as delicious and of high quality, some guests have noted occasional disappointments concerning dish expectations and pricing. Nevertheless, the overall sentiment is positive, with many guests recommending the dining experience for its outstanding service, excellent food, and memorable ambiance.
Rooms
Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea offers guests a glimpse into the past with its historical charm and decorative nods to a bygone era. The rooms are notably spacious, with many offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and property. Guests appreciate the unique and grand atmosphere, as if stepping into another world. The decor, echoing the historical significance of the building, contributes to an overall enchanting experience. Many rooms are comfortable, with well-designed suites and pristine linens adding to the appeal.
However, some areas may benefit from refurbishment, as outdated bathrooms and worn furnishings have been noted. Certain rooms, although they possess character, can feel cold and may not meet everyone's comfort standards. Amenities in need of repair or updating, like uneven flooring and drainage issues in bathrooms, occasionally detract from the stay. The rooms in secondary buildings offer a quieter stay, albeit farther from the central hub.
Despite these drawbacks, the warm hospitality of the staff, along with the richness of the location itself, ensures that guests feel well-cared for. The hotel exemplifies rural elegance, providing a charming retreat with considerable room space, delightful vintage furnishings, and an extraordinary historical setting.
Beds
At the Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea, the experience of sleeping might not meet everyone’s comfort standards. Many guests note that the beds tend to be on the harder side, and some find them quite firm, which could interfere with a restful night’s sleep. The firmness of the pillows adds to the challenge, with several guests mentioning lumps and general discomfort.
Creaking noises from the beds are commonly reported, and the size of the beds might not be suitable for those accustomed to larger options, such as queen-sized beds. Although certain guests do mention large and comfortable beds, this does not appear to be the universal experience. Furthermore, the overall condition of the bedding has drawn criticism for not living up to the expectations of a 4-star establishment.
Despite these bed-related concerns, the staff’s hospitality is often highlighted as a positive aspect, with guests appreciating their helpfulness. While the hotel provides a unique rural atmosphere, those planning a stay might want to consider their preferences for bed firmness and size.
Cleanliness
Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea presents a mixed experience when it comes to cleanliness. While some guests praise the impeccable cleanliness of certain areas, noting the house as clean and spacious, others highlight significant issues. The beauty of the location and the overall cleanliness of the property complement the welcoming and friendly staff, creating a generally positive ambiance for visitors.
However, the rooms often face criticism for poor maintenance, with reports of dust, musty smells, and insect presence. Some guests noted issues like old bedding, creaking floors, and rooms that were not thoroughly cleaned, while others found the common areas in need of attention. The bathrooms specifically require improvement, with mentions of ventilation issues, mold, and unkempt fixtures.
Despite these cleanliness concerns, the property's allure partly lies in its picturesque setting and the remarkable guest table experience, which garners appreciation for its traditional Portuguese cuisine. While the amenities of the hotel could benefit from better maintenance and a more attentive cleaning service, the charm of the building and garden continues to captivate visitors, offering a promising glimpse into rural hospitality amidst some challenges.
Staff
The warmth and hospitality at Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea are consistently celebrated by guests. Visitors are often impressed by the extremely friendly and welcoming nature of both the staff and the owners. Maria, the charismatic and warm hostess, is praised for her familial approach to guest interactions, and her dedication to maintaining the family home is particularly noted.
The staff, including notable individuals like Francisco and Ricardo, are regarded as superbly kind, professional, and helpful. Their attentiveness ensures that guests' wishes are promptly fulfilled, contributing significantly to an excellent overall service experience. Although there are occasional mentions of staff being hard to locate, their friendliness and willingness to assist generally leave a positive impression.
Beyond hospitality, the hotel is set within beautifully decorated spaces that are well-maintained, offering breathtaking views that enhance the charm of this rural getaway. The combination of top-notch hospitality, attentive service, and stunning surroundings makes for an unforgettable stay that many guests would highly recommend.
Pool
At Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea, the pool offers a mix of experiences. Many guests appreciate the large, clean pool as a refreshing retreat equipped with deck chairs, providing a lovely place to relax amidst the beautiful surroundings. The setting around the pool is often praised for its tranquil atmosphere and splendid views, which include a nearby tennis court, enhancing the overall experience at this rural oasis.
However, the pool is not without its drawbacks. Its location is described as somewhat distant and the water can be quite cold since the pool is not heated. Additionally, there are issues with maintenance, as some guests have noted the presence of leaves and insects in the water, and dog waste in the surrounding area, particularly during the off-season.
Despite these challenges, the pool and the accompanying gardens are valued as part of the charm of this picturesque property, promising a delightful escape for those who visit during the warmer months when thorough cleaning is likely prioritized.
Family
At Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea, families are welcomed into a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels like stepping into an ancestral estate with rich history and charm. The hotel is family run, and guests immediately notice the love and dedication that goes into making every stay special. The staff is extremely friendly and eager to help, contributing to a memorable experience for all visitors.
Families can expect a unique opportunity to dine together with other guests, creating a sense of community and shared experiences. Children are especially captivated by the diverse range of activities available, ensuring that they are engaged and entertained throughout their stay. The picturesque surroundings, with stunning views from all angles, add to the allure of this charming family estate. Accompanied by excellent food and drink offerings, the atmosphere becomes one of warmth and good company. The unwavering hospitality extends even to furry family members, promising a delightful experience for the entire family.
4 Star
Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea offers a distinct charm that resonates with guests who appreciate traditional aesthetics over modern amenities. The property stands out with its unique hospitality, personalized service, and spectacular setting. Visitors are welcomed by four-poster beds, manual wooden shutters, and classic touches that create an inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era. The staff consistently receives praise for their excellence and dedication, ensuring a welcoming experience. However, some reviews suggest that certain aspects, such as maintenance and bedding, fall short of four-star expectations, aligning more with a three-star quality. While it may not suit those seeking contemporary facilities, its allure lies in its historic and authentic ambiance.
Boutique-Style
Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea offers an exceptional boutique hotel experience characterized by its top-class ambiance and enchanting details. Nestled within a charming old mansion, guests are treated to beautifully decorated common spaces that evoke the feeling of residing in a house museum. The property stands out with fantastic 18th-century furniture, historic architectural substance, and decor that capture the essence of its history. The intimate and unique adventure promises cozy living spaces with an inviting, lived-in style, making it a perfect retreat for those visiting the area. Set amidst the countryside, this charming location provides a truly special accommodation, offering guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding vineyard landscape. This beautiful place leaves a lasting impression, drawing visitors back to experience its charm and tranquility again.
Romantic
Nestled in stunning and inspiring surroundings, Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea offers an idyllic escape for couples seeking romance and tranquility. This charming destination provides a peaceful ambiance, perfect for a romantic getaway out of time. Couples are treated to a delightful experience, enjoying intimate dinners in rooms with burning fireplaces, where privacy makes every meal special. The hotel itself is a reflection of elegance with its sumptuously decorated property and rooms infused with 19th-century charm. Guests often find themselves engrossed in intimate moments, savoring wine and cheese by the fireplace in beautifully preserved 18th-century rooms. The serene environment, coupled with its picturesque setting, ensures a memorable stay for those in search of romance.
Dog Friendly
Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea is recognized for its dog-friendly environment, making it an ideal location for guests traveling with pets. Visitors appreciate the warm welcome extended not only to them but also to their dogs, which are received enthusiastically by both staff and resident dogs, such as Valentino, contributing to a friendly and convivial atmosphere. Guests with dogs, including those with breeds like Borzois, commend the hotel for the freedom their pets enjoy during their stay. The accommodation features an expansive setting that allows dogs to roam freely, creating a pleasant experience for pets who are not bound by leashes. With a policy encouraging guests to bring their dogs, the hotel has established a reputation for being exceptionally accommodating to canine companions.
Yes, Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea.
Yes, Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea welcomes dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea.
No, Hotel Rural Casa dos Viscondes da Varzea doesn't have a gym.