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Forrester Essence Douro Hotel

4.0 star property
Pousada in Alijó with free breakfast and a seasonal outdoor pool

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Photo gallery for Forrester Essence Douro Hotel

Premium Double or Twin Room | Terrace/patio
Reception
Hallway
Junior Studio Suite | Terrace/patio
43-inch LCD TV with cable channels

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • Pet friendly
  • 24/7 front desk
  • Room service
  • Breakfast included

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)
    ‪36 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Classic Double or Twin Room

Classic Double or Twin Room | Desk, laptop workspace, free WiFi, bed sheets

Classic Double or Twin Room

  • 344 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed OR 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Deluxe Double or Twin Room

Deluxe Double or Twin Room | Desk, laptop workspace, free WiFi, bed sheets

Deluxe Double or Twin Room

  • 344 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Superior Double or Twin Room

Superior Double or Twin Room | Desk, laptop workspace, free WiFi, bed sheets

Superior Double or Twin Room

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

View all photos for Premium Double or Twin Room

Premium Double or Twin Room | Desk, laptop workspace, free WiFi, bed sheets

Premium Double or Twin Room

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

View all photos for Junior Studio Suite

Junior Studio Suite | Desk, laptop workspace, free WiFi, bed sheets

Junior Studio Suite

  • 344 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

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 - 14 min drive - 7.5 miles
  • Quinta da Roêda Winery - 26 min drive - 11.9 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Quinta Da Avessada - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Quinta do Portal - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Calça Curta - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Maria da Glória - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Solar 1 - ‬16 min drive

About this property

Forrester Essence Douro Hotel

Pousada in Alijó with free breakfast and a seasonal outdoor pool
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 tours or tickets. Additional amenities include meeting rooms, a seasonal outdoor pool, and free newspapers.
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 espresso makers, desks, and wardrobes or closets.
Recreational amenities at the pousada include an outdoor tennis court and an outdoor pool.

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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
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Free buffet breakfast available daily 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM
  • 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

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Free newspapers in lobby
  • 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
  • Grab bar near toilet
  • Hardwood flooring in room
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel

More

  • 1 building
  • 3 floors
  • Banquet hall
  • Communal living room
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Bathtub
  • Bidet
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • 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

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Laptop workspace

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 pets
  • 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.

  • 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
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. 

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.

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. Accessible 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.

What amenities will couples enjoy at Forrester Essence Douro Hotel?

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

Does Forrester Essence Douro Hotel have a hot tub?

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 free buffet breakfast at O Barão each morning.

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.

Are there connecting rooms at Forrester Essence Douro Hotel?

No, this pousada doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

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 accommodations at this pousada offer a furnished balcony where guests can enjoy pool or city views.

Forrester Essence Douro Hotel Reviews

Reviews

8.8

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 30 out of 56 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 20 out of 56 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 5 out of 56 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 56 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 56 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Staff & service

8.2/10

Amenities

8.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

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

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

10/10 Excellent

Marcia

Traveled with partner
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

10/10 Excellent

Eugene

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

10/10 Excellent

Emilio

Stayed 1 night in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

David

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Andrea

Traveled with partner
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

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

8/10 Good

Karen

Traveled with family
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

10/10 Excellent

donald

Traveled with partner
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

10/10 Excellent

SUSAN

Traveled with partner
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

6/10 Okay

Sue

Traveled with partner
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

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

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

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with partner
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

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
We had a pleasant stay in lovely location. The hotel was very good but the garden, swimming pool and grounds need a lot of work done.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2018

8/10 Good

Verena

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

Quiet pousada in the middle of Alijo

This is a very comfortable hotel with friendly staff and an excellent restaurant. I would recommend it to explore that area of Portugsl.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2018

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

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

Comfort in the country

A bit of luxury after exploring the wonderful region around the Douro Valley
Stayed 1 night in May 2018

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Staff & service, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2017

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

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

Lovely hotel near Douro Valley

Comfortable hotel in a historic building. Good location when touring the Douro Vally

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

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

6/10 Okay

Estelle

Traveled with family
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

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