Alto da Serra de Bornes, 5350-909 Sambade, Portugal
Nestled at 1,100 metres in the Serra de Bornes, Alfândega da Fé Hotel offers a mountain escape characterized by tranquility, elevation, and breathtaking Douro views that often surpass guests' expectations until witnessed firsthand from the balcony. Accommodations vary from classic, traditional rooms to recently updated spaces, each uniquely designed yet all featuring vistas of the Vale da Vilariça, ensuring the view is never sacrificed. The spa complex features two distinct pools. An outdoor infinity pool, seemingly suspended above the Vale da Vilariça, transforms swimming into an experience akin to floating over the valley. Indoors, a second pool equipped with a jacuzzi and water jets, along with a sauna and Turkish bath, provides an alternative when outdoor conditions are less favorable. The restaurant presents authentic Portuguese dishes crafted from fresh, regional ingredients, also offering views of the same valley. The reading room and bar are designed for relaxation and unwinding rather than structured activities. For those seeking physical activity, the hotel includes a comprehensive fitness center, with hiking trails and river canoeing opportunities nearby. Alfândega da Fé Hotel serves not merely as a point along a Douro journey but as a primary destination around which to build an itinerary.