Hotel of the Week: Aquapura

A few too many stacks of pancakes this week have left us in need of a detox. We can’t think of anywhere better to cleanse body and soul than at Aquapura, Portugal’s sexiest spa retreat…

Style Sprawling spa retreat
Setting Dazzling Douro wine country

Why this week? This perfectly positioned former farmhouse has had a dramatic designer reinvention and offers indulgent wining, dining and poolside reclining. Until 31 March, Smith members can stay four nights and only pay for three (legitimately, and not criminally, with Aquapura’s exclusive offer).

Our favourite bits The rooms at Aquapura overlook the manor-house cloisters, the Douro River, the woodlands, or the valley and vineyards. Scented with honeysuckle and surrounded by olive trees and a clematis-clad old stone wall, the heated outdoor pool has stunning views both from and towards it, thanks to the green vine-lined hills around the terrace and the grape-purple mosaic tile. The subterranean spa includes an indoor hydrotherapy pool with heated water beds, a herbal sauna, a panoramic sauna, a laconium and a steam room. There are lots of detox programmes to pick from – including ones for anti-aging and keeping trim. And if your willpower gives way, make sure you ask the hotel to arrange a tasting tour of the neighbouring quintas. The Douro Valley is one of the world’s oldest and most renowned wine regions.

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