Torel Palace, Porto

Paying homage to Portuguese literature, rooms are each named after an author or poet from Eça de Queriroz to, perhaps the best known Portuguese writer, Fernando Pessoa. The rooms, spread over four floors with a grand central staircase curving up between them are all completely different. Some have onyx bath tubs and basins within the bedroom; others boast ornate ceilings with beautifully restored stucco work and painting. All are spacious, with high ceilings and vast windows that let the light flood in. On the ground floor is an inviting book-filled library, pages suspended from the ceiling, animal skins on the wood floor. Beyond that is bar and restaurant, Blind with tables that spill out onto a lovely terrace, where an emerald-green lap pool runs beneath rambling wisteria. Paying tribute to one of José Saramago’s most famous books, Essay on Blindness, dinners here play with the senses only providing guests with a menu after they have eaten. At lunch expect dishes of guinea fowl with anchovy sauce or a classic Portuguese codfish dish. The staff are exemplary, really going that extra mile to make you feel valued.

 

Written by Mary Lussiana

• Spa
• The Skin Life Wellness Suite offers a range of skin therapy, facials, cryotherapy and wellness treatments
• Massage
• A range of revitalising, balancing stone, body shaping and couples massages available through Skin Life
• Restrictions on children
• Children older than 2 are welcome
• Swimming Pool
• Covered outdoor pool
• Child friendly
• Kids menu available
• Airport transfer
• Available at cost
• Babysitting
• Air conditioning
• No pets
• Laundry
• Cots available

• Rooms with balcony/terrace
• Bar
• Parking
• Free wifi
• Wifi
• Satellite / Cable TV
• Concierge
• Disabled access
• 24 Hour room service
• Restaurant

• Theatre
• Take in a show nearby at the São João National Theatre, Coliseu do Porto or Oporto Coliseum
• Close to nightlife
• Immerse yourself in the local culture in the cafes and bars of downtown Porto, on your doorstep
• Yoga
• Personal one-to-one yoga sessions available pre-booked on request

• Learning
• Get lost in the Torel Palace's beautiful and extensive library
• Sights nearby
• Surrounded by churches, theatres and striking architecture

Why do people love staying in your hotel? Our new 5 star hotel is one of the most stunning palaces in Porto, dating back to the 19th century with a breathtaking skylight (claraboia) as the architectural cherry on the cake. Natural architectonic beauty and the connection with modern design are visible at every inch of the public areas, in our luxury rooms and suites. Our clients particularly love the high ceilings and the daring design of our bathrooms. But most of all, our clientele cherishes the exclusivity and very personal attention that is part of the Torel Boutiques DNA, with our staff going the extra mile to fulfill the wishes of our guests.

What is there to do in the area? Located in the heart of the city a few steps from the hip Bonfim area Torel Palace Porto is just around the corner from Batalha square with its imposing São João National Theatre and the Santo Ildefonso Church. You are only a few minutes’ walks from the famous Bolhão market area, with its traditional liquor, cheese, and pastry shops – total immersion into the real Porto. For shopping aficionados, Rua Santa Catarina is the ideal place to spend an afternoon – with a perfect coffee break at the famous art deco Majestic Café.

Which are your most popular room types, and why? All of our rooms are individually designed and named after a Portuguese writer. Our two Royal Suites “Fernando Pessoa” and “Eça de Queiroz” are the most popular suites. As they have almost 60m2, they are spacious, comfortable and have the most detailed art high ceilings you can wish for in a luxury Palace.

What facilities do you have for children and can you fit extra beds in your rooms? We have a swimming pool, where children are allowed with their parents´ supervision. Yes, we offer the possibility to add an extra-bed in some rooms, depending on the category.

What message would you like to give Hotel Guru readers? Our Torel Palace Porto is a magic place for all of you who love to travel back in time in one of the most stunning historic palaces in Porto, full of charm and character – yet with a modern design twist. Indulge in literature, art and history in our library and our spacious and individually designed rooms and suites and relax in our garden with pool - or just step out and find yourself in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the city. If you wish a taste of the extraordinary, try the Torel Boutiques experience.