Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel
Porto’s sister-city Vila Nova de Gaia has reinvented its riverfront over the past few years, learning to embrace its industrial heritage by preserving and repurposing its imposing 19th century commercial architecture. Kopke are one of Gaia’s oldest residents – they’ve been producing port wine in the Douro Valley since 1638, and have always embraced evolution. They’ve united with Portuguese hotel chain Tivoli to create this newest addition to Gaia’s growing collection of luxury five-star hotel: the Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia.
Flanked by many of the city’s most-celebrated historic port wine lodges, including Niepoort’s, Cockburn’s and Taylor’s, this former industrial complex has been transformed into a delightful, indulgent hotel which rivals both the well-established Yeatman and Gaia’s youthful newcomers at The Rebelo.
Position is everything: it’s no accident that Tivoli chose this exact spot, with its expansive view of the grand Douro River, the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, and the medieval jumble that is old town Porto. It’s often said that the best perspective of Porto is from the outside looking in – the dazzling nighttime views from the Boa Vista Terrace and the 1638 Restaurant are as delightful as Chef Nacho Manzano’s modern interpretations of Northern Portugal’s seasonal cuisine, paired with Kopke’s best port and DOC Douro wines.
The views are equally lovely from many, but not all of the terrace and balcony guest rooms: we recommend booking early to snag the best. Whichever room type you opt for, the décor is comfortable and contemporary, perhaps with a little nod to an older, more classic Portuguese-antique style. The Kopke Spa has the same calming feel: in keeping with Tivoli’s modus operandi, it’s a quiet sanctuary from the bustle of the city – however, as you float lazily in the outdoor pool, you’ll find there’s still no escape from that sensational, panoramic view of Porto.
