We have stayed in several Portuguese manor houses, and this is certainly an impressive looking property. Perched on a hill above the Douro River (though without a direct view of the river), in the middle of beautiful vineyards, you feel as though you should be arriving by horse. The rooms are comfortable, with modern, elegant bathrooms. The common areas bear witness of a splendid past, with beautiful furniture, art and antiques. However, though the staff is very friendly the service is a little lacking. Details such as there being no bathroom tissue in the bathroom, to a staff that doesn't seem to anticipate the needs of its guests, detract from the overall experience. The owner obviously has put some money into the property (nice marble-lined bathrooms, beautiful pool-area, etc.), and with a little improvement in the service, guests would have a much better experience here, and the property deserving of a better rating. If you have dinner at the hotel (about 20 EUR per person for 3 course dinner), you might want to try the Vintage Ports; a glass of 1925 went for 6 EUR, and you could even have a taste of 1888 (!) vintage for 25 EUR (the hostess assured us those were the acatual years of the vintage). As is the case with other manor-houses, you will probably enjoy your stay more if there are several other people staying the night. Otherwise, these properties can seem a little cold and impersonal.