Six Senses Douro Valley, Portugal: New hotel celebrates the World Heritage area surrounding it

Six Senses' new property celebrates the offerings of the World Heritage area surrounding it, Portugal's Douro Valley. And what offerings: the enchanting blue-tiled buildings of historic Porto, the romantic atmosphere of the famous riverside port wine cellars and the stunning Alto Douro Wine Region where the tradition goes back 2000 years and you can still see grapes harvested by hand and squashed by foot.

The eight-hectare Six Senses Douro Valley reflects it all. It comprises 57 one to three-bedroom villas and suites by New York-based Clodagh Design who employed Portuguese traditional touches melding with natural local stone and wood.

Food and wine play a huge part in the resort experience. The Wine Library features local charcuterie and cheeses paired with a wide selection of wines by the glass to enjoy by the fire pit on the stone terrace where classic films play on a giant screen. For those more serious about wine, there's an appreciation program led by winemakers and resort sommeliers who educate guests in the 80 Douro grape varieties and award-winning vintages.

Meanwhile, resort chef Paulo Matos cooks signature local dishes using traditional open-fire ovens and clay pots across several on-site restaurants ranging from casual to fine dining.

Of course, you'll also find a signature Six Senses Spa, with 10 treatment rooms, heated indoor pool with water jets, a steam room and sauna. In keeping with the local theme, the spa includes grape and fruit-based treatments using freshly picked produce from nearby vineyards and orchards. There's also a "visiting practitioner" roster, bringing about 100 top wellness experts to the resort for special sessions.

Within the grounds there's an outdoor swimming pool with panoramic views of the Douro Valley.

From $350 a room a night (weeknights, low season).