2 independent reviews for Valongo guesthouse near Porto, Portugal
Reviews for Valongo guesthouse near Porto, Portugal
Moira Miller review 6 Jun 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Just the sheer peace and quiet that meant we could thoroughly relax and do as much or as little as we wanted. The family were lovely, very friendly and nothing was too much trouble. Max (the dog) was always around with a happy to see you” greeting. Porto is a vibrant working city with something for everyone.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
When using the train you have to use a ticket machine that is totally in Portuguese. Not everyone speaks English so it was a bit trial and error but we managed.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. We used local shops and restaurants. We visited a conservation area to do a walk locally. Used the local transport system which is very good and cheap.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Bliss. Just a shame that the sun was in short supply during our stay.Jenny Lunn review 13 Jun 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The guesthouse is a beautiful green oasis of peace away from a very busy city. The rooms and house are furnished to a very high standard and very comfortable. Everything provided, including optional meals, is of a high standard. The owners are very friendly and helpful and communicate well with you before your arrival.The whole day cruise on the Douro was beautiful and really worthwhile- ask their advice about booking this. I asked about a walk to visit part of the Serra de Valongo hills and the owner Clara took myself and two other guests for an 8 km walk starting from their house and going through an area of conservation and natural beauty with steep gorges, forests and streams that we would not have known was there. I only stayed 3 nights but had such a relaxing and interesting experience.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
This was a lovely place to stay just 23 minutes from the historical centre of Porto by local train-the train ( 3 minutes away) takes you straight to Sao Bento station and also stops at Campanha station if you are coming from the airport or from other cities. It is really easy to get to and from Porto. Porto was very busy - even mid -week in early June- and this give you a very relaxing base. You are in the suburbs but on the edge of the countryside- the countryside is accessible for walks and you can see the hills rising above the village. The owners are very helpful in providing information about interesting places to visit, where to eat locally etc. and will help you book activities- just ask for their advice. They sorted out my booking for the Douro cruise for me when there was a slight problem. They will also provide breakfast (with a very large choice) and a good evening meal or snack on request. ( You will need to pay in cash for accommodation and meals if paying once there). I had an evening flight but was able to spend the whole of my last day with them which I really appreciated.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
They recycle and produce their own eggs from their chickens. You are able to use local transport and there are walks starting from the guesthouse.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
This exceeded my expectations for a short stay- I will recommend it others and would definitely stay again.Accommodation Reviews
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