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Forrester Essence Douro Hotel

4.0 star property

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Photo gallery for Forrester Essence Douro Hotel

43-inch LCD TV with cable channels
Front of property
Hallway
Outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, sun loungers
Hallway

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Rua Comendador José Rufino, Alijó, Vila Real, 5070-031
  • Place, Jardim da Avenida Doutor Francisco Sa Carneiro
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Jardim Publico Doutor Matos Cordeiro
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Igreja Matriz de Alijo
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Airport, Vila Real (VRL)
    ‪37 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Classic Double or Twin Room

Classic Double or Twin Room | Minibar, desk, laptop workspace, soundproofing

Classic Double or Twin Room

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • City view
  • 344 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed OR 2 Twin Beds
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Deluxe Double or Twin Room

Deluxe Double or Twin Room | Minibar, desk, laptop workspace, soundproofing

Deluxe Double or Twin Room

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • City view
  • 344 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Twin Beds
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Superior Double or Twin Room

Superior Double or Twin Room | Minibar, desk, laptop workspace, soundproofing

Superior Double or Twin Room

  • 377 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Twin Beds
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Premium Double or Twin Room

Premium Double or Twin Room | Minibar, desk, laptop workspace, soundproofing

Premium Double or Twin Room

  • 377 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 2 Twin Beds OR 1 Double Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Junior Studio Suite

Junior Studio Suite | Minibar, desk, laptop workspace, soundproofing

Junior Studio Suite

  • 344 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

About the neighborhood

Alijó

Forrester Essence Douro Hotel places you next to Igreja Matriz de Alijo and Jardim da Avenida Doutor Francisco Sa Carneiro. This 21-room, 4-star pousada has an outdoor pool along with free in-room WiFi and free self parking.
View more Pousadas in AlijóOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Jardim da Avenida Doutor Francisco Sa Carneiro - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Jardim Publico Doutor Matos Cordeiro - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Igreja Matriz de Alijo - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Duoro River - 15 min drive - 8.2 miles
  • Quinta da Roêda Winery - 27 min drive - 13.1 miles

Getting around

  • Tua Station - 25 min drive
  • Vila Real (VRL) - 30 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Quinta Da Avessada - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Cêpa Torta - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Quinta do Portal - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Vista D'Ouro - ‬23 min drive
  • ‪Solar 1 - ‬16 min drive

About this property

Forrester Essence Douro Hotel

Guests staying at Forrester Essence Douro Hotel enjoy an outdoor pool, free WiFi in public areas, and an outdoor tennis court. There's free parking if you drive. The front desk has multilingual staff on hand 24/7 to help with securing valuables, dry cleaning/laundry, and luggage storage. If you like to take your furry friend along on your adventures, this pet-friendly property offers food and water bowls. Additional amenities include meeting rooms, a seasonal outdoor pool, and a terrace.
Guests can expect free WiFi and 43-inch LCD TVs with cable channels. Bathrooms have hair dryers, free toiletries, and bidets. Other standard amenities include minibars, espresso makers, and desks.
Recreational amenities at the pousada include an outdoor tennis court and an outdoor pool.

Similar properties

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Vila Gale Douro Vineyards Hotel
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  • Breakfast included
  • Spa
  • Parking included
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, 213 reviews
$240 nightly
The price is $254
Jul 1 - Jul 2
Total with taxes and fees
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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site

Food and drink

  • Daily buffet breakfast available 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM for a fee: EUR 15 for adults and EUR 7.50 for children
  • A bar/lounge
  • A coffee shop/cafe
  • A poolside bar
  • A restaurant

Restaurants on site

  • O Barão

Things to do

  • Outdoor pool
  • Outdoor tennis court

Family friendly

  • Laundry facilities
  • Outdoor pool
  • Soundproofed rooms

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • Meeting rooms

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • In the mountains
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Bathroom emergency pull cord
  • Elevator
  • Front entrance ramp
  • Hardwood flooring in room
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible path to elevator

More

  • 1 building
  • 3 floors
  • Banquet hall
  • Communal living room
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Vegetarian dining options

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Bathtub
  • Bidet
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 43-inch LCD TV with cable channels

Food and drink

  • Espresso maker
  • Free bottled water
  • Limited room service
  • Minibar

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Laptop workspace
  • LED lighting
  • Soundproofed rooms

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before noon

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for EUR 25 per pet, per day
  • 2 total (44 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
  • Food and water bowls are available
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for EUR 20.0 per day

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Fee for buffet breakfast: approximately EUR 15 for adults and EUR 7.5 for children
  • Pet fee: EUR 25 per pet, per day
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Rollaway bed fee: EUR 20.0 per day

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM—-anytime
  • Check-out: noon
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • The seasonal pool is open from May 01 to October 31.

Property is also known as

Pousada Barão Forrester
Pousada Barão Forrester Alijo
Pousada Barão Forrester Hotel
Pousada Barão Forrester Hotel Alijo
Pousada Barão de Forrester
Palacete Barão de Forrester.
Forester Essence Douro Hotel
Forrester Essence Douro Alijo
Forrester Essence Douro Hotel Alijó
Forrester Essence Douro Hotel Pousada (Portugal)
Forrester Essence Douro Hotel Pousada (Portugal) Alijó

Frequently asked questions

Is a free cancellation option available at Forrester Essence Douro Hotel?

Forrester Essence Douro Hotel provides free cancellation on select room rates. If you'd like to learn more, look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

How much does it cost to stay at Forrester Essence Douro Hotel?

As of Jun 28, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Forrester Essence Douro Hotel on Jun 29, 2026 start from $106, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What's there to see near Forrester Essence Douro Hotel?

This pousada is located in Alijó, just steps from Jardim da Avenida Doutor Francisco Sa Carneiro and Igreja Matriz de Alijo, and within a short walk of Jardim Publico Doutor Matos Cordeiro. You'll also find Bread and Wine Museum and Adega de Favaios within a short drive.

Will I be able to park at Forrester Essence Douro Hotel?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the pousada. Bicycle parking is also available for guests.

Does Forrester Essence Douro Hotel have a casino?

No, Forrester Essence Douro Hotel doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Forrester Essence Douro Hotel?

No, this pousada doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool. The seasonal pool will be open from May 01 until October 31.

Is Forrester Essence Douro Hotel a good place to stay for couples?

There are plenty of amenities for couples at this pousada, including a restaurant, an outdoor pool, and a poolside bar.

Are there hot tubs at Forrester Essence Douro Hotel?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this pousada.

Does Forrester Essence Douro Hotel have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

Yes, Forrester Essence Douro Hotel serves buffet breakfast for a surcharge each morning at O Barão.

Does Forrester Essence Douro Hotel allow pets to stay for free?

Although they can't stay for free, pets are welcome at Forrester Essence Douro Hotel for a fee of EUR 25 per pet, per day. The property also provides food and water bowls.

Are there connecting rooms at Forrester Essence Douro Hotel?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this pousada.

How far is the airport from Forrester Essence Douro Hotel?

The closest major airport to Forrester Essence Douro Hotel is Vila Real (VRL), which is 24.6 mi away (30 minutes by car).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Forrester Essence Douro Hotel?

Yes, some guestrooms at this pousada offer a furnished balcony where guests can enjoy city and pool views.

Forrester Essence Douro Hotel Reviews

Reviews

8.8

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 31 out of 60 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 22 out of 60 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 6 out of 60 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 60 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 60 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Staff & service

8.2/10

Amenities

8.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful, beautiful hotel with stunning views and excellent restaurant.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eugene

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Loved the hotel
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

dennis

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff was extremely friendly and very helpful. Dinner was delicious every night!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Friendly, helpful staff. Comfortable, spacious room with windows on two sides. Good breakfast. Nice area outside for eating al fresco in the evening. Centrally located.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marcia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very personal, friendly and helpful staff! The room was even larger than anticipated and very lovely views//////11
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

donald

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
David at checking was very helpful & spoke good English. Explained a bit of the history of the area from Roman times. Great bar / restaurant in the hotel.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Vittorio

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The Host David was so Kind and ready to solve all problems and request. The Restaurant a plus.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrea

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful estate home converted into a hotel. Had a lovely overnight stay. Their restaurant is fabulous. Room was very comfortable. Since we were here in the Fall, the hotel was very quiet. Only a few guests. Service was excellent.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Karen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Too cold to use pool but wonderful to walk the grounds and around town. Staff are so helpful and kind. Especially a shout out to David who treated us very well.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Liz

Room clean but would benefit from a bathroom update. Commented on noise because election rally went on till late across road from hotel both nights of our stay. Realise we were just unlucky to have this. Staff friendly and also knowledgeable about Port and where to buy it cheaply. Would love to come back overall.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

6/10 Okay

Ton

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Good service. Not working airco. Bathroom was a bit outdated.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

6/10 Okay

Thomas

Disliked: Cleanliness, room comfort

Not impressed with our stay.

We arrived at the hotel and found that the room did not correspond to the pictures on the website. Renovation work was in process. The room was very dusty. The floor is scratched and the furniture has seen better days. Te bathroom is old style and needs renovation. The air-conditioning did not work. The sleeping with open window was not a good choice as the room was giving on a busy street. Wi-Fi is patchy. After making a complaint, we were not able to change the room, as apparently the hotel was fully booked. The ray of sunshine of our stay was the good evening meal and the breakfast that is served in a nice ambience. Free parking is available at the hotel grounds. Let´s hope that after renovation the hotel gets back to a decent standard as advertised.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Isabel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Os funcionários muito simpáticos, atenciosos, prestáveis.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Marco

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
La struttura bella e il servizio adeguato. Purtroppo ci hanno dato una camera a nostro giudizio comfort e non de luce come avevamo prenotato e pagato.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

6/10 Okay

Estelle

Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Le personnel donne un service impeccable par contre l’hôtel est désuet et ne répond pas aux attentes vs le site.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Isabelle

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort

Tres belle expérience. Merci.

2 nuits dans cet hôtel élégant et calme. Grande chambre avec vue sur la piscine. Literie un peu ferme. Salle de bains grande et fonctionnelle mais meritetait d'être rénovée. Restaurant très bien lors des 2 diners à la carte : mets savoureux, bien présentés, service impeccable.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

SUSAN

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very relaxed and welcoming atmosphere right in the heart of this small town. Attentive service, very good restaurant
Stayed 4 nights in May 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Rainer

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Armaturen in der Dusche – Badewanne müssten erneuert werden. Sehr schöne Lage und gutes Restaurant
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

HUMBERTO

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

A repetir.

Excelente. Serviço profissional, simpático e disponivel. Boas condições de higiene, quer no quarto, quer nas zonas comuns.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sophie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Magnifique endroit calme, personnel très à l’écoute et très agréable, cuisine raffinée d’excellente qualité: bravo à la cheffe et à son équipe.
La terrasse qui donne sur la piscine
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

6/10 Okay

Sue

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
No heat in our room. Got moved to a new room, but not very good there, either. Manager was very helpful with tourism info. Breakfast okay, not great.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020
Verified

8/10 Good

Barbara

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Lovely Historic Hotel

Large rooms with comfortable beds. Lovely grounds and gathering spaces. Our one dinner there was excellent. Complimentary breakfast very good. Beautiful drive to hotel with amazing views.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Close by Centro walked to a very nice local restaurant. Staff were very friendly.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Claude

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Soirée très agréable aussi bien le logis que la table !
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The rural setting was relaxing and refreshing. The staff went above and beyond to provide quality service. The restaurant was excellent
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2019