Vidago Palace Hotel
Vila Real
The Vidago Palace Hotel, located in the Vila Real district of Portugal, is a historic luxury hotel originally built in 1910. It was designed by architect José Ferreira da Costa and inaugurated by King Manuel II. The hotel sits within the Vidago Millennium Park, surrounded by century-old trees and natural mineral springs known for their therapeutic properties. The springs were first studied hydrographically in 1863 and attracted notable visitors including King Luís I. The hotel became a social and wellness hub featuring tennis, croquet, and a skating rink on an island in the park. After a period of decline, it underwent extensive restoration led by renowned architect Álvaro Siza Vieira and reopened in 2010, coinciding with its centenary. The resort includes a 5-star spa, a golf course originally designed in 1936 by Mackenzie Ross and later expanded to 18 holes by Cameron Powell, and fine dining overseen by Michelin-starred chef Vitor Matos. Its blend of Art Nouveau, Neoclassical, and Moorish architectural styles, combined with its natural setting and rich history, make it a unique destination for wellness and luxury tourism.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit during spring or early autumn to enjoy mild weather and the lush park surroundings. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for spa treatments and golf sessions. The hotel offers various packages and seasonal discounts, so check the official website for current offers. Arriving by car is convenient, and the hotel provides ample parking. Don't miss the fine dining restaurant and the historical walking trails around the mineral springs.
Interesting facts
- •The thermal springs of Vidago were first studied in 1863 and were reputed for their curative properties, winning awards in Madrid, Paris, Vienna, and Rio de Janeiro between 1876 and 1889.
- •The hotel was considered the most luxurious in the Iberian Peninsula upon its opening in 1910.
- •The original 9-hole golf course was designed by Mackenzie Ross, renowned for the Ailsa Course at Turnberry, ranked among the world's top 20 courses.
- •The hotel was completely restored by Álvaro Siza Vieira, one of Portugal's most famous architects, reopening on its centenary in 2010.
- •A historical TV mini-series titled 'Vidago Palace' was filmed on location and aired in 2017, depicting life in 1936 at the hotel.
History
The Vidago Palace Hotel was constructed in 1910 during the optimistic Belle Époque period, designed by José Ferreira da Costa.
Its opening was marked by the presence of King Manuel II, whose family had previously visited Vidago for therapeutic treatments.
The hotel quickly gained acclaim as the most luxurious in the Iberian Peninsula, hosting social events and wellness activities.
Throughout the 20th century, it underwent several ownership changes and minor renovations.
Due to degradation, a major restoration was initiated between 2007 and 2010, led by architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, restoring the hotel to its former glory and upgrading it to a 5-star resort.
The golf course, originally designed in 1936, was expanded and modernized in 2010 to meet international standards.
Place Guide
Vidago Millennium Park
A vast park surrounding the hotel featuring ancient trees like maples, pines, and laurels, walking trails, river runs, and three natural mineral springs with different mineral compositions.
Golf Course1936
Originally a 9-hole course designed in 1936 by Mackenzie Ross, it was remodeled and expanded to 18 holes by Cameron Powell in 2010, meeting United States Golf Association standards and hosting international competitions.
Spa and Art Nouveau Pavilion
The spa is housed in a pavilion featuring Art Nouveau architecture with stained-glass windows and marble decorations blending Neoclassical and Moorish styles. It includes a sunken pool and was converted into a conference room during restoration.
Salão Nobre (Grand Ballroom)
The grand ballroom now serves as a fine dining restaurant overseen by Michelin-starred chef Vitor Matos, offering a refined culinary experience within the historic setting.
Contact
Phone: 276 990 920
