A Conversation with João Ferreira about Casa do Rio Wine Hotel

“On the walls we have pictures of the Douro which were taken by my father in the seventies.”

– JOÃO FERREIRA, CO-OWNER

How did you come across this beautiful land?

We were searching for a place to plant new vineyards, and found this amazing place – it had both potential for producing great wines and natural beauty.

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The project was designed by Francisco Vieira de Campos who also worked on your first hotel, Quinta do Vallado. Did you always know you wanted to work with the same architect?

No we didn’t. During the process we realised it made sense to make the new project with the same architect.

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How do you describe the architecture and interior?

The architecture is modern but timeless, it’s well integrated in the landscape and ecologic. The interiors are clean, simple with a mix of furniture designed by the architect, as well as vintage Scandinavian furniture. On the walls we have pictures of the Douro which were taken by my father in the seventies.

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‍‍How long did it take to get everything ready to open?

It took a year and half.‍

Can you tell us about the organic vineyard methods?

Traditional viticulture in the Douro valley is based on the use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides.Here it was very important for us to preserve the nature. We use grapes that are not subject to the use of any chemicals, everything is organic.

We fell in love with the swimming pool, surrounded by vineyards with an amazing view over the river. How easy or difficult was it to design?

Actually we went through four design proposals for the swimming pool… it was a difficult process to get to the final solution but it’s been worth it. Both materials and colours were chosen to achieve a natural look, including the colour of the water.

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What sets you apart from other hotels in the region?

There are very few other hotels in the region – but our concept is to take advantage of the quietness and beauty of the nature, to provide very good local gastronomy and high level of service.

What’s your favourite object in the hotel?

My favourite piece is the antique granite lagar (winepress) in front of the entrance. It belonged to an old house, in the medieval village of Marialva.

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What’s your favourite hotel (worldwide)?

Copacabana Palace in Rio and 11 Cadogan Gardens in London.

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Where do you tend to go on holidays?

I enjoy going to my friend’s house in Aljezur (south west Portugal) or to a chalet in the French Alps.

‍Thank you very much for this interview João.

Thank you too!