大金塔巷飯店(Quinta da Travessa - Douro)

This was a great find, but first things first. It is a difficult and somewhat nerve-racking drive down to Covelhinas and back, especially as the shorter road along the river is currently under repair and closed. But the destination is worth it. The Quinta is approached via a driveway lined with oleanders and bougainvillea's, leading up to a sparkling blue pool. The welcome was warm, and the owners exude hospitality and concern for their guests' comfort and welfare. Our room was large and comfortable with a fantastic view down to the Douro. It was beautifully clean, with antique furniture and gleaming polished wood floors betraying its family home origins, as different from a commercial hotel as one can imagine. It is advisable to arrange dinners when booking, as there are few alternatives in the village, and it's worth it. Meals were locally sourced, beautifully prepared with much of it coming from the quinta's farm and garden. Locally-produced wines together with the quinta's own port were perfect accompaniments. There is not much to do in Covelhinas hamlet, apart from some energetic walking, but the Porto train stops here and it's a short 2-stop hop to Pinhao, with its bars, shops, restaurants and wine tours. The train timetable allows for stopovers from two to eight hours. We took a short river cruise from Pinhao, highly touristic but interesting nevertheless. With a day's notice a private cruise can be arranged from Covelhinas, but we didn't have time. The small number of rooms (three) ensure a friendly and intimate atmosphere, and our hosts could not have been more helpful and welcoming. We would return for sure, if we come back to the Douro.

A fantastic place in a small village by the Douro River. The B&B has only 3 rooms but they are very nice and have a beautiful view over the village mountains and river. Perfect for nice walks around in the village och among the wineyards. The B&B has a pool vhere yo can relax. Free parking and Wi-Fi. We recommend it.