Helder was waiting for us upon arrival and was very friendly, making sure we had everything we needed.

The apartment is absolutely stunning - wall to floor views of the Douro river and across to the city of Porto. Vila Nova de Gaia is a lively and pretty neighbourhood, an ideal place to stay.

Most importantly, the apartment was warm! That may sound ridiculous but given the scarcity of homes with central heating in Portugal, it was lovely to feel warm and cozy.