Pestana Palácio do Freixo in Porto, Portugal. Photo by Paul Wilcox.
Facing the banks of the Douro River, the Palácio do Freixo is a national monument that tastefully combines the modern comforts of a 5-star hotel with the elaborate grandeur and detail of Portuguese palaces of the 18th century.
Italian Artist Influence
In 1725, Italian artist Nicolau Nasoni arrived in Portugal to contribute to the renovations of Porto Cathedral. Captivated by the city, he made it his home and went on to design some of its most iconic landmarks, including Casa de Mateus, Torre dos Clérigos (Clerigos Tower), and Palácio do Freixo.
Originally built for Jerónimo de Távora e Noronha, Porto Cathedral's Dean, the palace's interiors were later lavishly enhanced by its second owner, António Afonso Velado.
Lavish details inside the palace. Photo by Paul Wilcox.
A Factory in the Gardens
In the 20th century, Palácio do Freixo was sold to the Companhia de Moagem Harmonia (Harmony Milling Company), which constructed a factory in the palace gardens, utilizing the river's water to power steam engines. The factory now houses over eighty modern guest rooms – many with a view of the Douro River.
The Superior room we stayed in with a view of the Douro River. Photo by Paul Wilcox.
A covered outdoor courtyard connects the palace to the factory. The 148-foot brick silo still stands.
The restored factory silo facing the Douro River. Photo by Paul Wilcox.
Restoration and Repurpose
Acquired by Porto City Council in the 1980s, the palace underwent an extensive restoration in the following decade, led by the famous Portuguese architect and professor, Fernando Távora.
In 2006, the palace and factory were acquired by the Pestana Hotel Group and reopened three years later as the largest Pousada of Portugal. The property has since become part of the Pestana Collection Hotels and a distinguished member of the exclusive Leading Hotels of the World.
A blend of character and contrasts
The palace and factory create a unique blend of character and contrasts. From the industrial charm of the factory to the opulence of the palace, the property also offers the Palatium restaurant, Nasoni bar, and a variety of common spaces perfect for informal meetings or conversation, an outdoor infinity pool, spa, and outdoor sitting areas, all offering beautiful views of the Douro River.
If you visit
The Palácio do Freixo lies on the outskirts of Porto. You will need to use public transportation to see many of the popular Porto attractions.
If you arrive by car, there is free parking on the premises. Press the button to the left of the gate, when it opens, drive to the end of the lower level parking lot and take a left up the ramp. Guest parking is to the left directly across from the entrance to the palace. (I mention this because it can be confusing on how to get into the parking lot).
We drove to Porto and kept our car in the parking lot for most of the duration of our trip, preferring to take public transportation (Uber) to the Porto riverfront.
Outdoor infinity swimming pool (seasonal).
Indoor heated pool.
Sauna, Turkish bath and Spa, Gym.
Gardens and outdoor spaces with river views.
Palatium Restaurant offers Portuguese cuisine. Limited but sufficient menu. Nasoni Bar offers light fare.
This hotel is not near other walking-distance restaurants. We took an Uber to other eating establishments.
Parking (with electric vehicle chargers).
Free transfer to the city center (subject to availability).
Laundry (payable).
ATM machine.
24-hour reception.
Room service/turndown room service.
Multilingual staff.
Facilities are adapted for people with reduced mobility (contact the hotel for more details - the elevators are small).
Non-smoking rooms.
Visit the website for more information.
