Douro Exclusive: The Ultimate Douro Valley Wine Tour
We talk a lot about Spain here at Spain Savvy, but you may not know that we also send tons of our clients to Portugal too! It’s an easy tag-on to a Spanish adventure, or it's a fantastic trip all on its own. And with direct flights from the U.S. to Lisbon on United’s partner TAP Portugal, getting there is easy.
One of our incredible partners in Portugal makes any trip to the country worthwhile. The folks at Douro Exclusive take travelers on a phenomenal Douro Valley wine tour through the stunning wine-growing region that is truly unforgettable. The Spain Savvy team had the amazing opportunity to experience one of their food and wine tours, and we couldn't recommend it more! If you hadn't thought of taking a visit to the Douro Valley, Ana Carvalho and Marco Pinto of Douro Exclusive are about to change that.
Ana and Marco's Story
Ana and Marco are quite possibly some of the most incredible people we've ever met! They were both raised in the Douro Valley Wine Country, and when they lost their jobs in the pharmaceutical industry, they decided to take their lifelong passion for the region and build a wine-focused tourism company. When they started Douro Exclusive in 2012, they were the only Douro Valley natives doing so.
Ana in particular has very deep roots in the wine world. Her grandparents grew grapes in the valley to sell for Port wine, or "vinho fino" as the locals call it. Today, she and Marco are deeply connected to their family and close friends who work as producers and winemakers in the region.
The Douro Valley
The Douro is an absolutely breathtaking wine-growing region. Its landscape was built by hand over hundreds of years, transforming rough, rocky, and barren slopes into cultivable terraces. And it was from these terraces that one of the most iconic wines in the world was born: Port.
This region has become more than just Port wine, which is far more diverse than you can imagine. Along with Port, there are also new DOC (European certification for protected wine-growing regions) red and white varietals, all produced from the region's indigenous grapes.
When you visit the Douro Valley wine region, it's like traveling back in time. The grape harvest is still done by hand, and many wineries actually practice the ancient method of foot treading. You'll see the titanic force that was needed to build these vineyards, and you'll see how the humans are capable of accomplishing some of the most extraordinary things. Which is why in 2001, the Douro Valley was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. And Ana and Marco see it as their duty to protect this legacy and to care for this living landscape as they take their guests on each Douro Valley wine tour.
The Douro Exclusive Team
To really understand how to best share her love for this amazing region with travelers from all over the world, Ana decided to get her degree in tourism. The whole team is fabulous and they really understand how to create a guest experience. And in addition to the extensive knowledge that's been passed down to her and Marco from family and friends in the Douro Valley, all Douro Exclusive team members have their 2nd level certification of the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET).
The Douro Valley Wine Tour Experience
Since the inception of Douro Exclusive, Ana and Marco have been driving from their home in the Douro Valley to pick up clients in Porto, trekking through the valley for a full-day wine experience, and then taking their guests back to Porto. They continue to put in over 300 miles a day to provide the most memorable Douro Valley wine tour to their clients.
Douro Exclusive has been sitting at #1 on TripAdvisor for some time for their food and wine tours! They offers two types of experiences, the Immersive Douro Experience and the Back to the Douro Roots Experience. Both give guests an incredible journey through the Douro landscape, exclusive wine tours and tastings, and a Port-paired boat ride through the river. Whether you're looking for a Michelin wine-pairing lunch or intimate connections with locals, all of their tours let their clients dive deep into the exquisite wine and food culture, and get to know some incredible winemakers, traditions, and gorgeous views in the process. And the great thing is, we at Spain Savvy work hand-in-hand with Ana and Marco to create customized tours that suit your preferences.
Casa do Arco Guest Villa
Their newest edition, the Casa do Arco Guest Villa, is what Ana and Marco refer to as an extension of the love and service provided after a full day wine experience. At this exclusive Portuguese villa, you will find a true sense of place. You really feel at home in the Douro Valley, as though you were a part of its magical history.
Each of the three rooms are designed to offer luxury, comfort, simplicity, and elegance. Ana and Marco strive to take their guests on a sensory experience throughout their stay. And with impeccable views of the valley from practically every corner of the property, it's easy to see why.
The Douro Valley is undoubtedly a territory to be visited and explored by all wine and food lovers, especially those looking to experience a rich and unique story told by two passionate, professional, and service-oriented individuals. It's also a place beloved by those looking for a natural escape, adventure (hiking, biking, and kayaking!), history, and culture. Put the Douro Valley at the top of your must-see travel list. And make sure you put an experience with Douro Exclusive at the center.
For Luxury Castles in Mallorca, Castell Son Claret is King
Here at Spain Savvy we've been highlighting all our favorites from our site visit to Mallorca, one of Spain's magnificent Balearic Islands. This time we're showcasing another one of our fave properties on the island: Castell Son Claret. If you're looking for luxury castles in Mallorca (and why wouldn't you?), this is the place to stay.
Location
Castell Son Claret sits on 326 acres of land just 30 minutes outside of Palma, on the outskirts of the village of Es Capdellà. The expansive rural property is far enough from Palma to make you feel like you're truly escaping the city, but close enough to make an easy transfer from the airport. It's also ideal for active adventurers (hello biking!) and those needing some natural respite in the Spanish countryside.
This magnificent hotel is housed in one of the most stunning luxury castles in Mallorca. The heart of the property is the 19th century manor house, but historical documents mentioned the estate as early as 1450! There are seven historic buildings on the property, lush gardens, and a particular serenity to the place that lets you truly relax. And the views, of course, are totally unbeatable. The Tramuntana mountains surround the estate, creating a peaceful atmosphere and a unique ambiance different from the beachside spots in other parts of the island.
Design
Rustic luxury is at its finest at Castell Son Claret. The majestic castle was restored with modern furnishings, blending historic design with contemporary interiors.
Rooms & Suites
From suites with a private pool to breathtaking terraces, the rooms at this luxury castle in Mallorca are spectacular. Each is incredibly spacious and well-designed, with large bathrooms and beautiful furnishings.
Dining
Dining at Castell Son Claret is nothing short of outstanding. The three establishments on site offer gourmet experiences using local products, with twists on traditional dishes. Olivera, for example, takes diners on a culinary journey through the nearby Mediterranean Sea and offers a spectacular wine list. And their famous lemon cake in particular was to die for!
Their newest restaurant, Sa Clastra, honors the historic nature of the property with classic dishes, but showcases its modernity with creative reinterpretations. You can also head to the Castell Bar for a cocktail menu inspired by local produce and herbs from the property's garden, and enjoy them even more on the summertime terrace.
Service
From the front desk to the restaurant, the service at Castell Son Claret was impeccable and luxurious in every way. There was always someone available, and the professional staff consistently took the initiative to ensure we had the perfect stay. Additionally, the concierge was incredibly helpful and willing to attend to any specialized requests. They didn't miss a beat.
Amenities
Though you could sit on the terrace for a whole week and just enjoy the views, Castell Son Claret also offers number of amenities. For example, the property has a fantastic spa to help you refresh and recover from long travels or the busyness of life. Massages, facials, aromatherapy, and personalized treatments are all inspired by the natural surroundings and the Mediterranean garden. The Hammam spa experience, for example, is a special experience unique to Spain's cultural link and proximity to Morocco.
Castell Son Claret also offers space for recreational activities like poolside yoga, yoga retreats, and biking in the most ideal setting. And if you'd rather just relax, the outdoor and indoor pools await you.
Castell Son Claret is a total oasis in Mallorca that cannot be missed. It's clear why it's one of the leading hotels in the world and one of our fave properties in Spain! When you book your trip to this magnificent island, you'll definitely want to enjoy one of the best luxury castles in Mallorca. It's truly a special place.
Palacio Can Marqués is the Best Hotel in Palma
This summer the Spain Savvy team had the chance to visit the stunning Spanish island of Mallorca. Aside from sitting on the magnificent beaches and hiking down to hidden coves, we were set on exploring the island's capital in Palma. So we went searching for the best hotel in Palma, and, well, we found it!
About Palma de Mallorca
Mallorca is the biggest island in Spain’s Balearic Island archipelago, which also includes fantastic destinations like Ibiza, Menorca, and Formentera. The capital city of Palma is an amazing mix of locals and ex-pats, with rich culture, winding streets, and a seaside gothic cathedral. It's a vibrant city, with a great mix of artsy and tropical.
Palma de Mallorca is also super easy to access. Direct fights from places like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville run daily--we got a quick flight from Sevilla with RyanAir! Palma is well worth a trip off the mainland, particularly during May and November for the best beach days.
Palacio Can Marqués
Palacio Can Marqués is a luxurious five-star hotel property in the heart of Palma. So the location is absolutely perfect for getting around the city. It opened recently in an impressive 18th century palace (palacio means palace in Spanish) where prominent royal families lived throughout 300 years. Designed as a modern Mallorcan mansion, it's absolutely the most outstanding accommodation in the area and truly the best hotel in Palma. And it's ideal for any traveler, be it couples, families, or groups.
Property Design
Palacio Can Marqués is not only the best hotel in Palma, it's also considered a "purist" hotel, meaning the original features like the imperial staircase and gothic columns coexist with modern design. It's minimalist, yet luxe, with lush velvets set against ancient cobblestone and an artful design. We found ourselves particularly in love with the palace's library room, which is creatively decorated with antique touches from the hotel's rich history.
It's superbly comfortable and glamorous. Waltzing though the palace on your way out to adventure is an experience unlike any other.
Rooms and Suites
The rooms at the property are a seamless continuation of the glamorous design. We stayed in the Majestic Suite, which was above and beyond comfortable. There was so much room to spread out and make ourselves at home amongst the lush palace furnishings. We were super impressed by the huge closet spaces to keep the classic luggage explosion out of sight, and the big rain showers as well. And in the morning, the natural light streamed in from the many windows and bathed the spacious beds in sunshine, like a perfect lazy Spanish island alarm clock.
We also got a fabulous tour of the Riad, which is the largest suite in all of Mallorca. With a living room, dining room, Moroccan fireplace, and three bedrooms, it's a phenomenal accommodation for a group or a big family. And the views of Palma from the terrace (cathedral and ocean included!) were truly breathtaking; proving once again that it's the best hotel in Palma.
Dining
Along with the exquisite a la carte breakfast served on the patio (we were truly blown away by the service), Palacio San Marqués has two on-site restaurants. The Beatnik is a funky bar and restaurant with a little global flair and uses local, sustainable ingredients. The Merchants Steak & Grill brings a lighter and fresher take on a classic steakhouse, serving meals in the gorgeous garden lined with palm, fig, and cherry trees. Oh, and the rooftop bar overlooking the city is the cherry on top!
Service
A five-star accommodation comes with five-star service, and Palacio San Marqués lived up to the stars. From the first greeting to the restaurant service to checkout, we were thoroughly impressed with the discreet, highly attentive, and we daresay, perfect service from the team.
Though we obviously went out and explored Palma (can't beat such a central location!), we felt like we could just stay in the Palace all weekend long! With such fantastic service, amazing breakfast, and luxurious accommodations, it was truly an unforgettable experience. If you're looking to book your trip to Mallorca, and need a few nights in the best hotel in Palma, stay at Palacio Can Marqués.
Contact us ASAP to design your trip to Mallorca!
9 Reasons to Visit Mallorca on Your Spanish Vacation
9 Reasons to Visit Mallorca on Your Spanish Vacation
When it comes to luxurious beach destinations, it's no secret Spain's islands are shining stars. So the Spain Savvy team made a special trip off the peninsula, and came back with endless reasons to visit Mallorca.
Mallorca is the biggest island in Spain's Balearic Island archipelago, which also includes fantastic destinations like Ibiza, Menorca, and Formentera. But we found that Mallorca in particular has such a deep sense of place--a true identity that sets it apart from other parts of Spain. It's coves and beaches are exceptional. It's a place full of unique culture and cuisine. And it's well worth the quick flight off the mainland.
Mallorca is beautiful all year round, but to enjoy it to the fullest, we recommend a trip anytime between May and November. So we set off in August to scope out some of the best spots on this splendid island destination. We were truly impressed by all it has to offer! So we've put together our top 9 reasons to visit Mallorca on your next European vacation.
Accessible in Every Way
Mallorca is so easy to get to! With tons of direct flights from the mainland via Ryan Air and Vueling, you can easily couple it with a trip to Madrid, Barcelona, our beloved Andalusia, or even another Mediterranean country.
Once you're island-side, getting around Mallorca is just as easy. Renting a car is a fantastic option to get access to some of the beautiful towns and coves you'll find highlighted below. And picking up and dropping off a rental at the Palma airport is no sweat. We also work with a number of excellent private drivers on the island for more hands-off and relaxing excursions.
An Island for Everyone
This style of Spanish island life is ideal for all ages and types of travelers. There are easily accessible beaches with shallow waters for the kiddos, secret coves for romantic getaways, and so many activities that lend well to groups or solo travelers looking to adventure out alone or meet other travelers. In other words, if you want it, Mallorca has it.
Palma's Charms
Palma alone is a reason to visit Mallorca. Gina, our lovely partner at Visit My Mallorca, showed us around the charming capital city. She provides some unforgettable and specialized local experiences on the island, and led us though Palma's Old Quarter, to the fish market, and showed us the majestic waterfront Cathedral de la Seu.
The Jewish quarter was another must-see on our tour with Gina. If you're looking to learn more about Mallorca's Jewish history, our other fantastic partner Dani Rostein at Jewish Majorca truly brings the secrets of Palma's Jewish History to life!
The city is also home to unique boutique hotels that provide gorgeous stays for visitors looking to enjoy the best of Palma's impeccable style.
Stunning Beaches & Coves
One of the main reasons to visit Mallorca is obviously its collection of stunning beaches. Along with long stretches of white sand and crystal waters, Mallorca is full of hidden coves. The cliffs and coves are one of the best and most unique parts of the Balearic Islands, and Mallorca is the ideal place to experience them. Sneak on down to some of these tucked-away nooks known only to locals on your Mallorca stay (we'll give you the inside scoop!), and enjoy endless intimate and relaxing waterside days.
Ideal Boating Destination
Want to see Mallorca from a different side? Sailing or boating around the island is an ideal way to soak in the island's cliffs and turquoise waters. You'll find people from all over the world enjoying these luxuries--snorkeling, lounging on the deck, and lunching in the middle of Med. We had a phenomenal experience with Soller Charter and their crew! Our charter with them was proof you can't go to Mallorca without hopping on a boat.
Picturesque Towns
There are so many reasons to visit Mallorca. But it's not just about the beach! Mallorca is full of picturesque towns close to the seaside and farther inland that are straight out of a storybook. There are majestic mountains, lemon orchards, and vineyards flowing with local Mallorcan grapes to be discovered. Pollença, Soller, and Deià, for example, are truly magical spots we got to check out. They're full of artisan shops and restaurants hyper-focused on local products, and each town as its own unique vibe for any traveler.
Breathtaking Views
Mallorca's views are unbeatable. Whether it's a restaurant terrace, a quiet beach cove, or one of the many miradores (view points), the photo ops are practically endless on this island. We especially love the poolside views from the island's best hotels and resorts.
Luxurious Accommodations
Mallorca is home to some fabulous luxury accommodations. In Palma, for example, Palacio Can Marqués's newly renovated palace offers truly five-star service, and has spacious suites and penthouse rooms ideal for big family stays or events.
Just outside Palma, Castell Son Claret is combines Mallorcan rustic and luxury. The restored private castle from 1450 offers lavish dining, spa services, and bicycles on the grounds. Some of their suites also feature private pools for guests.
Right in the middle of the picturesque town Deiá, the Belmond La Residencia is nothing short of outstanding. To start, the resort has a top-tier spa, deluxe gym facilities, and to-die-for food experiences. But what makes the property especially unique is its dedication to the arts. The Belmond Residencia houses numerous sculptures from the famous Spanish sculptor Miró and also offers private sculpture workshops on site.
In the port of Sóller sits Jumeirah, a stunning five-star hotel that shows off exceptional views over seaside cliffs from any of the rooms. They provide every service you could ever need for an exceptionally comfortable stay, and their restaurant, Cap Roig, is a destination all its own.
Noteworthy Gastronomy
One reason to visit Mallorca is its fantastic cuisine. From traditional beachside spots with grilled fresh fish and meat like at Can Pescador in Pollença, to Cas Xorc's candlelight dinners of tender, fall-off-the-bone lamb from their sunset terrance, Mallorca's gastronomy has so much to offer. And it often includes breathtaking views!
At Cap Roig you can enjoy carefully prepared seafood dishes by Javier Soriano with the freshest of fish and, of course, amazing cliff-side views. Suculenta in Marina Tramuntana in Port Sóller, with its terrace and live music, is a great stop for a post boating lunch or dinner. In the center of Palma, the five-star Asian-Mediterranean fusion tasting menu at Fera, with fabulous wine offerings, was well worth the indulgence. And Spot Mallorca is a fun spot for craft cocktails and especially creative dishes.
There are so many reasons to visit Mallorca. Whether you're looking for a Spanish island getaway or a simple stop-over on a longer Spanish adventure, this stunning island has much to offer every traveler. To plan your next trip to Mallorca, reach out to your Spain Savvy team and we'll design the ideal itinerary. That way, you you can spend more time soaking up every last bit of this exceptional island.
Fave Properties: São Lourenço do Barrocal
We're so pleased to shine the Spain Savvy spotlight on this spectacular property we recently discovered through our friends at the Querido Collection in the Alentejo. After our recent visit, we can say with certainty that there's really no better place to stay while visiting this magical area of Portugal.
Here is a helpful map to get you situated geographically. São Lourenço do Barrocal is a family-owned estate - converted into an understated luxury hotel completely integrated in its natural setting - located just east of Évora in Monsaraz.
The property is an easy 3 hour drive from Seville (about 2 hours from Lisbon and 2.5 from the Algarve coast).
"The Alentejo is one of the best preserved landscapes and one of the least populated regions of southern Europe. Its vast open country is home both to tradition and contemporary culture, renewing itself as a region that is global but not globalized. The sense of beauty is found almost everywhere, from whitewashed villages and craggy outcrops to undulating plains peppered with cork oak and olive trees. Fairly close to Lisbon, it occupies almost one-third of Portugal. Yet, somehow, it is still a confined region, inhabited by friendly people and a quiet charm."
On our way to the estate, we stopped in the delightful medieval white-washed village of Monsaraz with its impressive open-air castle, friendly hosts, and wonderful restaurants for lunch with a view.
Our stay on the estate was exquisitely perfect. We slept in a 2-bedroom Meadow Cottage which was so spacious and opened right up on to the property's expansive meadow and vineyards. I even managed to get up nice and early for a quiet solo yoga session to take in the absolute peace on the grounds. Be sure to check out the tours we posted as reels on our Instagram.
After our arrival on the property (we were greeted by Duarte and his golf cart which was great fun!), we spent most of our time relaxing pool-side (there is a wading pool for kids and a larger adult version, both on a vast lawn). While we lounged and played, staff offered us fresh melon kebabs, rosemary water spray and cool cloths for our faces, as well as mineral water to drink. Luxury at its very best!
The estate has a bunch of bicycles for guest use and we decided to take a few for a spin down to the vegetable and herb gardens. The staff can also advise you on longer rides and walks for bird watching and more. There is enough nature and wildlife to enjoy for days.
"Seasons rule above everything else in this farm garden. With raised beds where crops are organically cultivated in order to provide guests with the freshest vegetables, herbs and fruits, it follows a strict planting calendar so the ecosystem has a bountiful and ecologically friendly effect."
In addition to the gardens, São Lourenço do Barrocal boasts its own unique beef herd of pedigree cows, whose origins lie in the native Alentejanas, crossed with specially imported French Salers and Limousin bulls. Moving about the blanketed countryside, the herd is part of the landscape, supplying the farm to table restaurant and the whole working estate with meat characterized by its depth of flavor.
At guests' disposal, there are also Lusitano thoroughbred horses, the oldest saddle horses in the world. They are fit to take you galloping if you are an experienced rider but they are gentle as well, making them perfect for horseback riding lessons.
One of the other great features of this property is its award-winning Susanne Kaufman spa with personalized treatments, wellness, pilates & yoga classes, and fitness studio.
The farm-to-table restaurant brings the freshest organic produce and local delicacies, featuring cuisine deeply rooted in the Alentejo's traditions. Our breakfast was simply marvelous - not one detail missing! They even offered the children their favorite dish of chocolate pancakes - so thick and fluffy! For your dining variety, there is also an outdoor grill (Hortelão), the hotel bar, and the pool bar.
Our only regret is not staying longer. This is a top-notch property for relaxation and for exploring Portugal, and we absolutely cannot wait to share it with all of you.
Contact us today to book your exclusive stay at São Lourenço do Barrocal with Spain Savvy.
Opinions are truly ours! Some photos are from the property website.
Spain Savvy at the Tourism Innovation Summit in Seville
Spain Savvy at the Tourism Innovation Summit in Seville
From November 25-27, Seville hosted the global event "Tourism Innovation Summit" at its FIBES conference center, a pivotal moment in the rebirth of tourism post-COVID that we were lucky to experience in our home city.
Throughout the three days, Spain Savvy attended roundtables, conferences and discussions with other tourism professionals on topics like "Think Global, Act Local", "Customer Insights after COVID-19", and "Using the Lessons from COVID to Rebound Faster and Achieve More Successful Tourism". Many of the talks were focussed on how the private and public sectors can collaborate to recover from the COVID crash, and we hope those connections will truly be made over the next months as travelers begin to return.
Keynote Speech by Doug Lansky
Travel and Tourism guru Doug Lansky started off the conference with the keynote address and spoke of how destination management professionals should shift the focus from quantity to quality when it comes to measuring the success of tourism in a city or destination. He urged us to look at how tourism can impact a local society in positive ways (experiential travel, economic recovery, cultural exchange) and also to use this down time to investigate ways to combat the negative impacts that too many visitors can have on a city and its inhabitants. For instance - in the case of Seville - can we use creative technological systems to control the amount of daily visitors to the city's major monuments, in the same way that Disney diverts crowds? Can we focus on creating VIP entry times that allow for more exclusivity and thus reducing the throngs of people that sometimes plague our city? We must remember that in these cases, less can definitely be more. These are considerations that we sincerely hope are being made during this time of reflection and preparation. Spain Savvy is especially grateful to Mr. Lansky for bringing his thoughtful ideas to the forefront and providing perspective to destination managers for moving forward.
Innovation in Tourism Technology
Many new technological products were presented throughout the three days. One that stuck with us, that wasn't even on the docket for an official presentation, but was mentioned by a speaker on one of the panels, was the company Driveando, offering radio-guided tours with your own car, currently operating in Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Lanzarote.
"Driveando is a new system of guided tours to which you must take your own vehicle. The excursion is led by a “Viper”, a guide-car with all the necessary material to make the event a success. Customers are always connected with the Viper listening to the explanations or solving their doubts through a two-way communication system."
What a fabulous and innovative solution for offering safe guided tours, especially during these uncertain times. Once we are back up and running, we'd love for one of our first clients to give them a try!
Overall, the TIS event was a huge success for the organizers, including the Seville Tourism Board and the FIBES staff, and they deserve the highest recognition for the coordination of the event with all the right measures in place to ensure the health and safety of the attendees, which included rapid COVID antigen tests for all - results arriving almost immediately via app and checked throughout the event.
The Future of TIS in Seville
TIS will be held in Seville for the next 10 years and we are looking forward to next year's event. On a personal note, after so many months of being home-bound and our business essentially grinding to a halt, it was morale-boosting to mingle with colleagues and industry friends once more, and to lean on each other for support in these trying times.
If you're starting to think about your own 2021 travel adventures (for when it's safe to travel again), please reach out to us to begin work on your very own Spain Savvy customized itinerary. We look forward to hearing from you!
Fave Properties: Palacio Bucarelli
Palacio Bucarelli in Seville is a very special place to spend your time in this magical city. Located in the up-and-coming San Lorenzo district just off the Alameda, you will be immersed in residential Seville while still just a few minutes' walk from the major monuments and city sightseeing highlights. Bonus: one of our favorite tapas bars, Eslava, is just a stone's throw down the street.
The palace has been carefully-restored from its original 17th century beginnings under the careful designs of renowned Seville architect Javier Betancourt. In its most recent life, the palace was home to a private school. The building, which takes up an entire block of prime real estate, was once owned by Seville nobility and features prominent family heritage pieces rescued for the remodel - such as tapestries, furniture and artwork.
Palacio Bucarelli: Seville history comes alive
Antonio Bucarelli relocated with his family from Florence, Italy to Seville in the 16th century and quickly gained his fortune as a merchant in the New World. He was a Spanish military officer, governor of Cuba, and Viceroy of New Spain (1771–1779) during the time of Spanish colonization of California. The Queralt family (Counts of Coloma) later inherited the building from the Bucarelli's through marriage, and there is even a romantic legend involving the poet Bécquer and one of the Coloma daughters, considered to be one of the most beautiful women in Seville, that you can feel come alive while staying at the palace.
This gorgeous Countess of Coloma would water the plants on one of the balconies while the poet Bécquer watched her from afar. He composed a poem to honor her that would later make him famous. This poem is memorialized in a corner of the interior patio of the palace as seen here:
The Dark Swallows Will Return
Luxury Custom Services at Palacio Bucarelli
Spacious, well-appointed loft-style apartments at Palacio Bucarelli
The beauty is in the details
Ready to book your stay in Seville at Palacio Bucarelli? Spain Savvy is pleased to be able to manage your reservation and to provide you with a complete, personalized itinerary to make the most of your time in this enchanting city. Contact us today!
Fave Properties: La Nava del Barranco, a luxury retreat in the heart of Spain
Tucked away in the peaceful countryside, in the province of Castilla-La Mancha (between Madrid and Andalucia), is a breathtaking luxury retreat called La Nava del Barranco which we recently had the opportunity to get to know first-hand, on invite from the very kind Beatriz Pastrana of Events of Excellence, a trusted Spain Savvy partner for private villa rentals. Just some of the reasons we can imagine our Spain Savvy clients indulging in a stay at this special property are: as a bookend location to a longer family group itinerary in Spain, a company retreat, or even a girls' getaway. Whatever the reason, we can guarantee that a stay for just a few days at this property will be nothing short of spectacular.
A private luxury retreat
La Nava operates as a boutique hotel with a private home feel. In actuality, part of the home is the private residence and hunting lodge of an elite family entrenched in the Spanish partridge-hunting tradition that goes back for many centuries. Impeccably-dressed staff are at your beck and call to ensure you have everything you need at all times. First-class catering services are available to guests throughout an exclusive stay and include delicious and complete meals, snacks, and drinks.
A complete stay with luxury amenities
You and your guests will have exclusive access to the country estate and the grounds, which include: double infinity pools, various lounges/porches/verandas, library, cinema, spa, gymnasium, sauna, Turkish bath, dining room, a winter lodge, and a meeting room equipped with a projector/screen and views of the countryside. There is also music and Wi-Fi available throughout the property. There are 16 well-appointed, exterior-facing bedroom suites with luxurious bathrooms, as well as additional bedrooms available for service or security staff. This luxury retreat can easily accommodate children, offering a play room and childcare services.
The grounds extend around the property for thousands of acres, and staying here means experiencing nature is in its purest form. The house, which is absolutely private, dominates over the surrounding countryside from a high plateau. The views look over peaceful landscapes where Spain’s most famous literary character – Don Quixote - walked, and include olive groves, oak forests, gullies and lakes.
Enjoy nature and wildlife
The staff will make sure you and your party get out on a photographic safari in the countryside surrounding the estate, where you will easily spot deer, pheasants, mouflon, boars and more in their natural habitat. The cherry on top to your nature safari will be a picnic lunch á la “Out of Africa”, complete with La Nava's signature white-glove service.
Visit nearby cultural sites
Other activities available are 4x4 and quad bike routes, hiking, clay pigeon shooting, cooking courses, private bullfights, spa treatments, horseback riding, tennis and horse-drawn carriage rides. Any kind of activity - such as team building events, corporate meetings, training courses, balloon rides, tourist visits to the local area, workshops, gastronomic tastings - can also be organized on-site, and there is a golf course just 10 km away. Nearby, for a cultural day trip, are the lesser-known World Heritage sites of Úbeda and Baeza, the best examples of Italian Renaissance architecture in Spain, and just over 2 hours away is the majestic monumental complex of La Alhambra in Granada.
Luxury transport available
La Nava is easily accessible from Madrid's airport or train station, and exclusive service can include luxury private transfers. For the elite client, this luxury retreat even has its very own landing airstrip for private jets located just 15 minutes from the lodge.
Contact Spain Savvy today for our own custom itinerary including an exclusive stay at La Nava del Barranco. We can't wait for you to experience this amazing property!
Spain Savvy's Post-Covid Travel Protocol & Seals of Approval
While travel has come to a halt worldwide, here at Spain Savvy we have been busy learning about how travel will change as we enter the "new normal" post-Covid, and how we must all adapt to the rules and regulations that will ensure the health and safety of our visitors. We are proud to display the official seals of approval from the World Travel & Tourism Council, the Spanish Ministry of Tourism, and the regional government's Tourism Board in Andalucía, where our business is based.
Ensuring #SafeTravels from WTTC
WTTC alongside its Members, governments, health experts and other industry associations are working together to achieve effective recovery protocols by developing meaningful action plans that optimize sector-wide recovery efforts.
Part of these protocols include providing the public & private sectors with the insights & toolkits for interaction & implementation to ensure that people are and feel safe - however WTTC, its members and the sector can not guarantee 100% safety. It is paramount to have common rules. Ultimately, WTTC envisions a future of travel which is safe, secure, seamless and provides an authentic and meaningful experience to the traveler across the journey; one which supports the livelihoods of millions and contributes to sustainable economic growth.
The WTTC has published protocols in phases for at least eleven industries, including; Hospitality, Attractions, Outdoor Retail, Aviation, Airports, Short Term Rentals, Cruise, Tour Operators, Convention Centres and MICE, Car Rental and Insurance.
The protocols align the private sector behind common standards to ensure the safety of its workforce and travelers as the sector shifts to a new normal.
Please note that while the protocols take into account current WHO and CDC guidelines, they are living documents which will be updated as new information becomes available about COVID-19.
The cities of Seville and Barcelona as well as the country of Portugal have also received this seal of approval directly from the WTTC.
Responsible Tourism in Spain
The State Secretariat of Tourism has created a 'Responsible Tourism' seal of quality for all those establishments that follow the Guidelines on Measures to Reduce the Spread of COVID-19 in the Tourism Sector, the only measures approved by the Ministry of Health.
It is a seal of quality that can be downloaded from the website of the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism after completing a form in which the establishment must show its commitment to following these guidelines. The seal of quality is personal and non-transferable, and will need to be renewed each year.
The State Secretary for Tourism, Isabel Oliver, believes that "offering confidence and safety is essential at the moment for re-attracting both domestic and international travelers. This seal of quality is yet another tool in our strategy to reposition Spain as a safe tourist destination for everyone. It is also a way to recognize the responsibility of those business leaders who make an effort to create a safe environment in their respective businesses, not only for tourists but also for their own workers and local residents".
The "Guidelines on Measures to Reduce the Spread of the SARS-CoV-2 Coronavirus in the Tourism Sector" drawn up with the sector, social stakeholders and regional governments, and validated by the Ministry of Health, will be the benchmark for creating rules worldwide following an agreement adopted by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
Safe Andalusia
Andalusia has made its "Safe Andalusia" badge available to all sectors on a voluntary basis.
The badge identifies all companies that comply with the security measures on Covid-19, in order to give consumers the guarantee and peace of mind of compliance with the standards of the World Health Organization.
The company displaying the Safe Andalusia seal of approval must comply with the recommendations guide set forth by the local government and once the badge is awarded, there is a compliance control process.
#Plannow - #Experiencelater with Spain Savvy
2021 is gearing up to be a big one for travel. With so many people sheltering in place and waiting for borders to open up post-Covid, we believe it's important to prioritize your bucket list and begin to think about making some plans.
Our custom-designed itineraries are completely flexible allowing you to:
- Set an itinerary with moveable dates - we can take the time now to make sure we do all the research necessary and make your trip design as perfect as possible!
- Assist you with your flexible air & lodging bookings
- Get all the details just right and make sure everything will be in place so you can sit back, relax, and focus on the amazing experiences we know you will have
At Spain Savvy, we are proud of how Spain, Portugal and other European countries have collectively handled the Covid crisis.
After a rapid and widespread expansion of Covid-19 in Spain in early March, they applied the strictest lockdown in Europe for close to two months. Following, was the most gradual and structured de-escalation strategies in the European Union, lasting several more weeks.
Spanish airports are applying a 3-step security procedure for new arrivals including the completion of a responsible declaration, temperature-taking and a visual Covid-19 symptoms test.
In addition, Spain is cooperating closely with the other EU countries to ensure that borders are opened as safely as possible to countries who can meet the EU standards for Covid-19 control in their home countries.
Spain Savvy is in close and constant contact with our partners (hotels & lodging, transport companies, guides, experiences and activities) to ensure they are also complying with all government-required anti-Covid protocols and will continue to monitor protocols going forward.
We have established an emergency plan in case of Covid-19 infection of clients or suppliers during a Spain Savvy experience.
Partnering with Spain Savvy for your post-Covid travels is a guarantee that you will be in the safe hands of trusted experts. To learn more about how we work, read our How We Work page.
Contact us today to begin design on your very own Spain Savvy custom itinerary for post-Covid travel. We would love to hear from you and assist you with your travel dreaming!
Destination Spotlight: Porto & the Douro Valley
Destination Spotlight: Porto & the Douro Valley
Porto (or Oporto as it is sometimes known locally) is Portugal's second-largest city behind the capital Lisbon, and is a fascinating area to include in your travels to this part of the world. As a rising hot destination for Spain Savvy travelers, we recently made a brief site visit to meet with some of our local partners and are delighted to share our tips and secrets with you.
We were visiting from Seville and flew direct with RyanAir. If you wish to fly in or out of Porto from the U.S., we recommend flying with TAP Portugal (part of the Star Alliance network, sometimes code-sharing with United Airlines), as TAP conveniently offers direct flights to Porto from several U.S. hubs.
Bonus travel tip! Click here for our specialized tips on flying on TAP Portugal with children
If you're coupling Porto with Lisbon on your itinerary, you can also connect via Portugal's easy-to-use and quick Comboios train system. For example, there are over 30 trains per day running all day and the travel time is under 3 hours. Prices vary depending on the stations you choose in each city and the ticket class you purchase. So, if it gets too confusing for you, we can help you figure it all out!
Where to stay in Porto
Spain Savvy regularly works with two luxury hotels in the city, both of which we stayed at while in town. Certainly, if forced to pick a favorite, it would be hard to choose one from these two.
The Pestana Collection Vintage Porto Hotel (4*) is located right in front of the Douro River in Praça Ribeira, making for spectacular sights from many of its river view rooms. The hotel itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, joining 18 historic buildings that have been renovated, while maintaining the vintage style. There is a fantastic steakhouse restaurant on-site and helpful staff members at your service.
The Porto A.S. 1829 Hotel (4*) is a small, boutique property just up the street from the river on the end of the beautifully pedestrian Rua das Flores, offering lovely city views from many of its comfortable and simply elegant rooms. The hotel, run by the Lux Group, also houses a vintage stationary store and a gourmet restaurant. Similarly, the service is second to none, and our clients have always been thrilled with their stays here.
What to do in Porto
Taste Porto
Without a doubt, the best thing we did while in town was to take one of our partner Taste Porto's local food tours. This is no secret to Spain Savvy travelers, but it's so clear to us that the best way to understand a culture is to study the way the locals eat. Andre's Vintage Food Tour provided us with this foundation and much, much more. Some highlights on our tour included sampling Porto's famous preserved tins of fish (conservas), making a sugary stop at a family-run confeitaria with to-die-for pastries, popping bites of bolinho de bacalhau, and ending it all with a professional Port wine tasting at a fabulous wine bar. The added bonus of doing a food tour is that you get to meet locals and fellow travelers, and have a lot of fun while learning about the city you are visiting.
Get out, stroll and explore Porto! This is a great pedestrian city, and you can easily walk around to all the major sights. One of our favorite things to do is to simply admire the beautiful tile and mosaic works that drape the city's buildings - just about everywhere you turn, in bright, muted, and pastel colors. The best place to do this is at the São Bento train station, which also depicts Portugal's rich history through the fantastic tile murals.
Another spot we enjoyed visiting was the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal, with its landscaped mosaic of gardens that open up on to the best views over the Douro. It's where we got this money shot:
Visit the bookstore recognized as one of the most beautiful in the world, Livraria Lello, even if it's just to take a picture outside. The line was rather long when we got there, and we didn't purchase tickets in advance, so you'll want to make sure you do that (Bonus Tip: it's the voucher section on the website).
Eat as many pastéis de nata (typical cinnamon-dusted custard tarts) as your little heart desires at Confiteria do Bolhao or Manteigaria.
Stroll the wine cellars lined up on the other side of the Douro (just a quick walk over the Luis I bridge) in Vila Nova da Gaia - many offer tastings of their centuries-old products.
You can't miss the Torre dos Clérigos, whose 225 steps you can climb for a bird's-eye-view of Porto.
Porto has so much to offer its visitors...at Spain Savvy we can curate an itinerary that will help you make the most of the time you have to explore Porto and the surrounding area.
Where to eat in Porto
Porto is chock full of gastronomic delights and charming spots to eat out. Our first dinner was at Flor dos Congregados, thanks to a recommendation from our friend André at Taste Porto. Tucked away in a dimly-lit alleyway, this romantic spot offers traditional Portuguese cuisine in one of the oldest, still family-run operations in town.
Another great dinner was at Galeria do Largo at the A.S. 1829 hotel. The restaurant has a nice terrace for people-watching and attentive staff, not to mention delightfully delectable and seasonally-designed dishes.
They were also kind enough to notice via my check-in documents that the last morning we were there was my birthday and surprised us at breakfast with a bottle of champagne and a dessert platter!
We sampled local cheeses and Port wine one night at Provo Wine Bar, run by a talented sommelier and featuring a nice background of jazz music which made for great atmosphere.
At Taberna do Largo, a typical tavern very close to the A.S. 1829 hotel, we tried the local cocktail, a Porto Tonic, which really hit the spot after our long day in the Douro Valley.
For a delicious brunch after a late night enjoying the city's vibrant nightlife, check out Bird of Passage offering specialty coffees and healthy breakfast-themed food!
Other favorite Spain Savvy spots
Some other spots we continually recommend to our clients are O Paparico, which some call Porto's finest restaurant, and the ODE Wine House.
We have a long list of other fantastic eateries to hit up while in Porto that we are happy to share with you as part of your very own customized Spain Savvy itinerary. Contact us to get the ball rolling on your trip.
Visiting the Douro Valley from Porto
While in Porto, it is imperative that you at least make a day trip to the Douro Valley, Portugal's magical wine country just a couple hours' drive from Porto. Spain Savvy is thrilled to partner with Douro Exclusive to offer day trips and customized itineraries in this region for our clients. Ana and Marco will treat you like family! Make sure you watch their award-winning video:
On our Douro Exclusive experience, we started our day with a lovely boat ride on the Douro River, learning all about how the same boats (called rabelos, pictured in the main photo above) were used to transport the wines from the vineyards in the valley down to the cellars in Porto for international export.
Then, we visited the picturesque winery at Quinta do Panascal, where we had an exclusive tasting of the Fonseca Port vintages alongside incredible views of the river valley. Most importantly, the tasting whetted our appetite for the luxurious wine-paired lunch at Michelin star-rated DOC Rui Paula, which was a one-of-a-kind gourmet experience.
Afterwards, it was on to the smaller operation at Quinta de Tourais, an artsy winery run by Fernando Coelho and his family, where they create unique high-quality red, white and rosé wines, each with its own memorable label.
Your trip to the Douro Valley
All day trips with Douro Exclusive can be fully customized, and some clients even like to extend their stays in this region for 2-3 days to really soak in the countryside and enjoy the slow rhythm of life.
If you're considering extending your stay in this region, we would highly recommend the Six Senses Douro Valley resort, with dreamily-designed rooms and suites as well as its expansive spa, fine wining and dining, organic gardens and nature trails. Another rural spot to consider is the Wine House Hotel at Quinta da Pacheca which has recently completed its bold architectural project of suites in the form of wine barrels. Now, that's an experience you will truly never forget!
Spain Savvy provides custom itinerary design services in Spain and Portugal. Contact us today to plan your very own adventure in Porto!