"The views across the sand dunes to the unmanicured, wild and rugged Atlantic beach had me reaching for my surf board…”
FeelViana is found a 45-minute drive north from both Porto’s airport and Vigo in Spain. The town of Viana do Castelo, whose few restaurants and shops offer a pleasingly local feel, is two miles away by car or chugging ferry.
Things To Do
The lowdown
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Best for
Kite and windsurfers, family activity holidays and wild coastal landscapes.
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Think about
Including some time in Porto for a classic city and beach combo.
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When to go
June to September.
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Cost
From £850 per person for 7 nights including flights and car hire/transfers.
Life at FeelViana is all about the activities, both land and water-based. Sand cycles and road and mountain bikes are all available for guests, as are children’s bikes and trailers for younger ones. Lots of trekking and walking trails start close by, too; guides for both hiking and biking can be arranged.
In the ocean guests can surf, windsurf, kitesurf and paddleboard, with lessons available. All guides and equipment are handily based at the hotel, as is a sports shop.
Recommended for…
Anyone active! The hotel is located in an area little-frequented by British tourists so, with all the distractions available on site, it’s a great option if you’re looking for something different in an undiscovered Portuguese corner. Or if you’re keen to learn something new, or fine-tune existing skills.
Style and Facilities
A modern hotel with some chambers in the main building, and then bungalow-style rooms in a segregated garden area. There are two swimming pools – one outdoor, one indoor – plus a spa, while the restaurant and bar afford views over sand dunes towards the ocean, great for sundowners.
Sleeping
Ranging from garden-view doubles to ocean-facing suites, all rooms have a balcony on which to relax following your day’s kitesurfing lesson or bike ride. Several can interconnect for families, and some can fit additional beds.
Food and Drink
Both FeelViana’s bar and restaurant serve local-style food. Its bar is more focused on tapas-style small plates, whereas the restaurant provides a-la-carte fine dining. Viana do Castelo’s proximity means you aren’t constrained to eating at the hotel.
