TOREL 1884, PORTO, PORTUGAL
Photo credit: Torel 1884 www.torel1884.com
STAY
Photo credit: Torel 1884 www.torel1884.com
HOTEL TOREL 1884, PORTO
The fascinating but lesser known city of Porto is located in northwest Portugal. Brimming with character and set on the beautiful Douro river, this city is a must visit. Near the ancient riverfront area of Ribeira known for its cobblestone streets, cafes and old Merchant houses you’ll find this stunning boutique hotel - Torel 1884.
Set in a former 19th century palace, Torel 1884 was opened in 2019 after an extensive, and meticulous renovation. The interior architecture is by Miguel Nogueira, and the interiors are by Nano Design and Portugese artisans who helped to restore the 3 storey building and create bespoke furnishings. I adore the 5 metre high ceilings and the original central staircase with its domed skylight. The decorative details and ornate tiles in this magnificent building creates a feeling of ‘old world’ grandeur.
The hotel has 12 rooms and suites, however there’s an additional 11 apartments in a separate building a few metres away. In the hotel, the rooms are individual and unique. The design of the rooms references far away lands the Portuguese explorers encountered on their maritime voyages. They have names such as ‘tobacco’, ‘silk’, ‘coffee’, ‘tapestry’ or ‘spice’. Each room has handpicked objects from around the world, artisanal touches such as handmade tassels, and textures such as velvet, silk, cotton and linen. Rooms vary in colour and style and a rich palette of colours in either ocean blue, olive green, sand, coffee or terracotta have been used.
There is a lovely guest only lounge and library on the top floor where guests can fix themselves a drink surrounded by bookshelves full of vintage books.
‘Bartolomeu’ wine bar and restaurant on the ground floor is appropriately named after a 15th century Portuguese explorer and is stylishly decorated in a colonial style with a marble and rattan counter, wood panelling, dark green walls and tropical plants. The Portuguese food has French influences and is made from the freshest ingredients. The wine list has an exceptional range of Portuguese wines to sample.
Everyone talks of the wonderful location of the hotel, the superb decor (especially in the hotel) and the exceptional, friendly service from the staff. The city of Porto is high on my list of destinations to visit, and Torel 1884 is where I’d most love to stay!
Photo credit: Torel 1884 www.torel1884.com