Crossing the Rio Douro in Porto

You don't really need an excuse to go back to Porto, but if you're still looking for one, then the Palácio do Freixo is awaiting you at the doorstep.  As you come across the Rio Douro, you will see nestled on the river banks the first national hostel in Porto.  Opened in October 2009, the Palácio do Freixo is finally enjoying a dignified way of life.  The elegant 18th Century building was designed by David Sinclair, who also designed the mill works that sit next to the palace.

The new opening was a bit of a conversion project for the old edifice as both it and another wing of the palace were extensively recovered to their original brilliance, including many pieces of furniture and frescoes which adorn the walls throughout the old palace.  It now has 87 rooms and suites, many large common spaces and a spa area for its guests.

The hostel has been extremely popular since it opened and required some time to fine tune its daily services, but with its friendly atmosphere and location, even many locals from the city take the opportunity to get a peek inside the former palace.  A special emphasis is put on the comfort and functionality of the rooms, with most overlooking the river.  With the historic charm of its garden area and the unexpected infinity pool at its border, it creates the illusion of being the first "resort" city of Porto.