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The House of Sandeman

Vila Nova de Gaia , Largo Miguel Bombarda (Show on Map)

9.4

Excellent

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1 room2 guests 1 room, 2 guests

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Summary of reviewsThe House of Sandeman - Hostel & Suites is a standout accommodation nestled on the picturesque banks of the Douro River in Vila Nova de Gaia, close to the historic Dom Luis Bridge. This strategic location offers breathtaking views and easy access to Porto's old town, renowned wine cellars and various local attractions, making it an ideal hub for tourists. Guests are particularly impressed by the stunning vistas from the hostel, whether from their rooms, the balcony or the outdoor seating during meals.

The ambiance of the hostel is a harmonious blend of modern design and local charm. The rooms are spacious, beautifully decorated and well-equipped with contemporary amenities like air conditioning and vinyl record players. Both private suites and dormitories are praised for their cleanliness and comfort, featuring plush beds, large private bathrooms and significant storage solutions. The common areas such as lounges and terraces are equally well-maintained, contributing to the cozy and relaxed atmosphere.

The hostel's dining experience is highly acclaimed. The breakfast is described as fantastic, offering a variety of delicious, fresh-made options, often enjoyed with the river view. The communal dinners, featuring traditional Portuguese dishes, are a hit among guests for their quality, affordability and the social experience they provide. Additionally, the hostel organizes wine-tasting events and offers discounts on Sandeman Wine tours, adding a cultural touch to the stay.

Exceptional service is a hallmark of The House of Sandeman with staff members frequently praised for their friendliness, professionalism and helpfulness. The team is noted for treating guests like family, providing useful tips and ensuring a memorable stay.

While the WiFi connectivity is strong in public areas, it can be inconsistent in some rooms. Despite this minor drawback, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive with many guests highlighting the exceptional comfort of the beds and the meticulous upkeep of the facilities.

The hostel also makes an effort to be accessible with amenities catering to people with mobility issues, though the hillside location and the building's historic nature do pose some challenges. Nonetheless, its central location and proximity to public transport and attractions make it a convenient choice for many travelers.

In summary, The House of Sandeman - Hostel & Suites offers a rich blend of comfort, convenience and cultural experiences, supported by outstanding service and a stunning setting, making it a highly recommended choice for visitors to Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
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Accessible Hostel

Room Types

Small Double Room The double room features air conditioning, soundproof walls, as well as a private bathroom boasting a shower and a hairdryer. This double room has a safe deposit box, heating and a TV. The unit has 1 bed.

Double Room The double room offers air conditioning, soundproof walls, as well as a private bathroom boasting a shower and a hairdryer. The unit has 1 bed.

Superior Double Room with River View The double room provides air conditioning, soundproof walls, as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower and a hairdryer. The unit offers 1 bed.

Bed in 14-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room This bed in dormitory has soundproofing and air conditioning. The dormitory's bathroom is located inside of the room and is only shared by the occupants of this specific dormitory.

Bed in 14-Bed Female Dormitory Room This bed in a female dormitory features air conditioning and soundproofing. The dormitory's bathroom is located inside of the room and is only shared by the occupants of this specific dormitory.

Bed in 8-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room This bed in dormitory has air conditioning and soundproofing. The dormitory's bathroom is located inside of the room and is only shared by the occupants of this specific dormitory.

Bed in 7-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room This bed in dormitory features air conditioning and soundproofing. The dormitory's bathroom is located inside of the room and is only shared by the occupants of this specific dormitory.

About The House of Sandeman

License: 71769/AL

Guest Reviews

9.4

Excellent

Location

Nestled on the scenic banks of the Douro River, The House of Sandeman - Hostel & Suites boasts an exceptional location that attracts every travel enthusiast. Positioned right in Vila Nova de Gaia and just a stone’s throw away from the historic Dom Luis Bridge, this hostel offers unparalleled access to both Gaia and Porto. Guests rave about its convenience, as it places them within walking distance to Porto's old town, renowned wine cellars and an array of local attractions.

The setting is nothing short of spectacular, offering breathtaking views of the Douro River and Porto's charming waterfront. Whether one is enjoying a sunset from the balcony or gazing out from their room, the stunning vistas never fail to impress. Its central location means that visitors are right in the middle of the action, making it an ideal hub for sightseeing and exploring the rich culture of the area.

The ambiance at The House of Sandeman - Hostel & Suites harmonizes perfectly with its surroundings. The beautifully furnished rooms and the stylish, modern design add to the hostel's charm, making it a cozy retreat after a day of adventure. Guests appreciate the tranquility of Gaia coupled with the hostel's vibrant atmosphere, which is accentuated by super helpful and friendly staff.

Overall, the strategic location, coupled with its remarkable views and close proximity to tourist hotspots and fine dining, makes The House of Sandeman - Hostel & Suites a superb choice for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beauty and culture of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.

Breakfast

The House of Sandeman - Hostel & Suites offers a highly praised breakfast experience that leaves a lasting impression on guests. Many reviews highlight the excellent, delicious and abundant nature of the breakfast, often describing it as amazing, fantastic and wonderful. Guests appreciate the variety and quality of food available with specific mention of made-to-order options like pancakes and omelettes, which are a delightful touch. The breakfast includes both a la carte and buffet choices with fresh, homemade elements that add a distinct European home-cooked feel.

The breakfast setting is also a significant highlight with guests enjoying their meals in a stylish room and some even mentioning the outdoor seating with stunning views of the Douro River and Porto. The atmosphere and attentive staff contribute to a pleasant dining experience, making breakfast a delightful start to the day.

While the majority of feedback is positive, some guests note areas for improvement, such as the limited variety in options and the set plates system, which could be more flexible. Despite these minor criticisms, the overall consensus is that the breakfast provided is more than satisfactory with its quality, variety and setting making it a valued inclusion and a memorable part of the stay at The House of Sandeman.

Dinner

At The House of Sandeman Hostel & Suites, dining is an experience that blends great tastes with community vibes. Guests consistently praise the delicious and varied evening meals, which are not just about food but also about connecting with fellow travelers. The communal dinners, often highlighted as a standout feature, offer traditional Portuguese dishes at affordable prices, making for a memorable social experience. With dinner menus that change regularly and include options for different dietary preferences, there is something for everyone. The evening meal is seen as excellent value for money, often noted for its impressive quality.

Additionally, the hostel offers a welcome drink and host various wine-tasting opportunities, including a discount on Sandeman Wine tours next door. This makes it an ideal spot for both relaxation and cultural exploration. Other notable mentions include the cocktail bar with great drinks and the convenience of having affordable dinners on-site. For those seeking additional activities, there are various tours available, further enriching the stay. Between the welcoming atmosphere, exceptional dining options and comprehensive tour offerings, guests can expect a well-rounded and enjoyable experience at The House of Sandeman Hostel & Suites.

Rooms

The House of Sandeman - Hostel & Suites offers travelers a unique stay with its remarkably spacious and beautifully decorated rooms that provide stunning views of Porto and the Douro River. Guests praise the cleanliness and comfort of both the rooms and bathrooms, describing them as sparkling clean, comfortable and cozy. The accommodation features a variety of room configurations, from private suites to dormitories, all of which are designed with an elegant and modern touch, often featuring original decor that reflects the local culture.

The rooms are equipped with all necessary amenities, including air conditioning, comfortable beds and large private bathrooms. Many guests appreciate the additional touches like vinyl record players and large windows offering breathtaking views. The common areas, including lounges and terraces, are equally spacious and well-maintained, enhancing the overall relaxed and "hip" atmosphere of the hostel.

Guests highlight the superb quality of service from the attentive and welcoming staff. The storage solutions, such as spacious lockers, are also well-received, though some guests noted a desire for more storage options in their rooms. Overall, the combination of beautiful, large spaces, modern furnishings, excellent amenities and a stunning view of the river makes The House of Sandeman - Hostel & Suites a highly recommended accommodation for anyone visiting Porto.

Beds

The House of Sandeman - Hostel & Suites is highly praised for the exceptional comfort and quality of its beds. Many guests highlight the beds as spacious, clean and extremely comfortable, often comparing them favorably to those found in hotels. The design of the beds, including unique barrel-shaped queen-sized options and well-equipped dormitory beds with privacy curtains, power outlets and lamps, receives commendation. The wooden bed frames help minimize disturbances and the sturdy build ensures a restful night's sleep. The mattresses and pillows are consistently noted for their comfort, contributing to an overall cozy environment in both private rooms and dormitories. The bathrooms complement the comfort of the beds, being described as well-equipped and spacious, further enhancing the guests' experience. Overall, the combination of large, plush beds and well-thought-out amenities makes for a highly comfortable stay at The House of Sandeman.

Cleanliness

The House of Sandeman - Hostel & Suites impresses with its exceptional cleanliness, offering super clean rooms and bathrooms that are frequently praised by guests. Many highlight the spotlessly clean and impeccable condition of both private and shared spaces, including spacious bathrooms that are regularly cleaned and well-maintained. The hostel's modern, well-planned interiors and hygienic rooms create a comfortable and welcoming environment with many noting the daily cleaning services, fresh towels and neat common areas.

Guests also commend the friendly and hardworking staff who ensure strict hygiene standards are maintained throughout the hostel. The combination of clean, spacious rooms, perfectly maintained common areas and top-notch sanitary facilities set against a beautifully decorated backdrop makes this hostel stand out. Whether staying in a private room or a larger dormitory, guests consistently find their accommodations clean, comfortable and well-kept, lending to a pleasant and satisfying stay. The exceptional cleanliness, alongside the great location and friendly service, makes this hostel a highly recommendable option for visitors to Porto/Gaia.

Staff

The House of Sandeman - Hostel & Suites consistently receives high praise for its outstanding staff. Guests frequently highlight the team's friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism. Many reviewers describe the staff as kind, welcoming and accommodating with particular mentions of employees treating guests like family. Several names, such as Ana, Marta, Mr. Alex, Aleena, Igor and Philippa, are noted for their exceptional service and natural friendliness.

The staff's ability to provide useful tips and attentive service further enhances the guest experience with the reception team being especially commendable for their organization and helpful recommendations. The positive feedback extends to all staff members, from the receptionists to the cleaning team, who are frequently described as supportive, cheerful and dedicated.

In summary, guests feel immensely welcomed and well-cared for at The House of Sandeman, thanks to the consistently friendly and attentive staff who go above and beyond to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay.

Wi-Fi

The House of Sandeman - Hostel & Suites offers good WiFi coverage, especially in public and shared areas such as the Tour room. Some guests reported that the WiFi in the town nearby also works well. However, connectivity in the rooms can be inconsistent with several guests experiencing instability and issues with the signal cutting out for extended periods. Free WiFi is available, despite some areas needing improvement.

Accessible

The House of Sandeman - Hostel & Suites offers a welcoming environment, highlighted by personalized touches such as a welcome drink and relaxed public areas with free WiFi. It is a favorable choice for solo travelers and provides amenities for people with mobility issues, including an elevator and accessible public spaces. The breakfast lounge, featuring good views, is also equipped with ramps to facilitate easier access.

However, it’s important to note some accessibility challenges. The hostel is built into a hillside, making it a slightly difficult trek from the street, especially for those with mobility limitations. Carrying luggage up to reception and then to the rooms poses a challenge, as reception is on the first floor and rooms are on the second, accessible by stairs only. While an accessible private lift and a stairlift are available, the lack of a dedicated elevator for all guests means some rooms remain non-wheelchair accessible.

Despite these challenges, the central location of the hostel, close to many public attractions, restaurants and parking (albeit sometimes full), ensures that the House of Sandeman is accessible by both walking and bus services from Gaia and Porto. The fitness center is outfitted with special chairs for disabled guests, bolstering the hostel's overall commitment to accessibility where possible.

Overall, while The House of Sandeman - Hostel & Suites makes significant efforts to accommodate guests with disabilities, its historic structure and hillside location introduce some unavoidable obstacles.

No, The House of Sandeman doesn't have any pool.

No, a spa isn't available at The House of Sandeman.

No, The House of Sandeman doesn't allow dogs.

No, parking facilities aren't available at The House of Sandeman.

No, The House of Sandeman doesn't have a gym.

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