Please select your travel dates to see rates and availability
Check In
Check Out
1 room2 guests1 room, 2 guests
Info
Summary of reviewsSantana Hotel & SPA garners strong positive feedback across several key categories, making it a highly-regarded choice for travelers. The hotel's location by the Rio Ave impresses guests with its serene setting, picturesque river views and convenient proximity to downtown Vila do Conde, adding to the enjoyable experience of exploring local attractions and cuisine. Guests find the tranquility ideal for a relaxing retreat while still being close to the city's amenities.
The hotel’s breakfast service is especially praised for its extensive and diverse selection, offering a variety of well-prepared, fresh options that cater to different tastes. The breakfast room’s scenic views over the river enhance the dining experience. Despite some occasional criticisms regarding quality and replenishment, the overall guest satisfaction with breakfast remains high.
Dinner experiences at the hotel's restaurant also receive commendable reviews, particularly for the quality and taste of the food, cozy atmosphere and reasonable pricing. Although some guests mention the need for more variety and better value in the dinner buffet, the overall dining experience is positively perceived with many guests enjoying delicious meals complemented by stunning river views.
Guest rooms at Santana Hotel & SPA are noted for their spaciousness, comfort and beautiful balconies with breathtaking river views. However, feedback indicates that room decor and amenities could benefit from updates and more rigorous maintenance. Despite these areas for improvement, the rooms’ size and comfort along with the tranquility of the surroundings contribute to a satisfactory stay.
On the cleanliness front, the hotel maintains a generally high standard with many guests describing it as spotless and well-maintained. There are sporadic mentions of areas needing more thorough cleaning, but these do not overshadow the overall clean and organized environment praised by most guests.
The staff consistently earn high marks for their exceptional hospitality, friendliness and attentiveness. Guests feel warmly welcomed and well-cared for with the team’s efforts significantly enhancing the overall guest experience.
The hotel's spa and gym facilities are highly appreciated for their cleanliness, well-maintained equipment and relaxing atmosphere. The spa with its range of treatments and spectacular views, receives particularly glowing reviews despite some minor points of contention regarding jacuzzi controls and pool temperatures. The gym, while small, is seen as a convenient and well-equipped space for workouts.
The indoor pool, part of the spa facilities, is another standout feature with its pleasant temperature, cleanliness and additional amenities like the sauna and steam room. Although some guests note occasional crowding and minor issues with chlorine levels or jacuzzi temperatures, the pool area is generally enjoyed by guests for its relaxing and luxurious ambiance.
Finally, parking at Santana Hotel & SPA is appreciated for being ample and free, adding to the convenience for guests.
In summary, Santana Hotel & SPA offers a desirable combination of stunning location, comfortable accommodations, quality dining, excellent service and commendable spa and fitness facilities, making it a favored choice for a serene and enjoyable stay in Vila do Conde. Show more
Read review summaries for all categories
Categories
Hotel near Golf Courses
Situated in Vila do Conde, this hotel is listed as having a golf course within 2 miles (approximately 3 km). Its location provides very good access to the nearby Estela Golf Club, a prominent links course known for hosting the Portuguese Open.
Hotel with Swimming Pool
This hotel features a large, warm indoor swimming pool. It also has spa facilities.
Heated Pool Indoor Pool
Hotel with Parking
Features free private parking on site, with no reservation needed. Accessible parking and valet parking are also available, offering varied and easily accessible options for guests.
Accessible Hotel
This 4-star hotel offers accessible parking and facilities for disabled guests. It features an indoor pool, a hot tub, and a spa, providing a comfortable and relaxing experience. The hotel also offers amenities such as accessible parking and elevators.
4-Star Hotel
Located next to the Ave River, this spa hotel features an indoor pool, a hot tub, and a sauna. The rooftop terrace features panoramic city and beach views. The comfort of the room and calm ambiance of the hotel are highlights.
Hotel for Honeymoon
Hotel with Spa
Family Friendly Hotel
Romantic Hotel
Business Hotel
Hotel with Gym
Hotel with Indoor Pool
Hotel with Heated Pool
Room Types
Twin RoomThis air-conditioned room comes with a TV, minibar and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and free toiletries. Access to the Health Club.
Please note that double or twin rooms are allocated according to availability at the time of check-in.
SuiteThis suite consists of a living room, a bedroom and a bathroom. Access to the Wellness SPA.
Triple RoomThis air-conditioned room comes with a TV, minibar and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and free toiletries. Access to the Wellness SPA.
Double Room with River View and Romantic PackageThis offer includes:
- Romantic VIP treatment in the room at arrival;
- Buffet breakfast;
- Access to Thermal area (gym, indoor heated pool, jacuzzi, Turkish bath and sauna);
- 15% discount in massages (more than 30 minutes) in the Spa;
- 1 dinner for 2 adults with river view (Chef suggestion with 1 starter, 1 main course and 1 dessert, beverage from our selection included);
- Late check-out until 13:00 (on request and according to availability).
Double or Twin Room with Wellness PackageThis offer includes:
- Buffet breakfast;
- 1 back massage 'Ondas Suaves' per adult;
- Access to Thermal area (gym, indoor heated pool, jacuzzi, Turkish bath and sauna);
- 1 dinner for 2 adults with river view (Chef suggestion with 1 starter, 1 main course and 1 dessert or buffet service, beverage from our selection included);
- Late check-out until 13:00 (on request and according to availability).
Double RoomFeaturing free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a bath, a bidet and a hairdryer. The air-conditioned double room features a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private entrance, soundproof walls and a minibar. The unit has 1 bed.
Family Room (2 Adults + 1 Child)Featuring free toiletries, this family room includes a private bathroom with a bath, a bidet and a hairdryer. The air-conditioned family room features a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private entrance, soundproof walls and a minibar.
Single RoomOffering free toiletries, this single room includes a private bathroom with a bath, a bidet and a hairdryer. This single room is air-conditioned and has a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private entrance, soundproof walls and a minibar. The unit has 1 bed.
Double Room with BalconyThis air-conditioned double room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom as well as a terrace with river views. The unit offers 1 bed.
Twin Room with BalconyThis air-conditioned twin room is comprised of a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom as well as a terrace with river views. The unit has 2 beds.
About Santana Hotel & SPA
License: 692
Guest Reviews
7.8
Good
Location
Nestled by the Rio Ave, Santana Hotel & SPA boasts an excellent location that consistently impresses its guests. The hotel's proximity to downtown Vila do Conde makes it a convenient choice for guests wishing to explore the city, enjoy local cuisine or visit nearby restaurants. Its quiet, serene setting offers stunning views over the river and Vila do Conde, creating a picturesque atmosphere perfect for a relaxing stay.
Guests frequently highlight the views from various parts of the hotel, including the breakfast room, bedrooms and balconies, all of which offer magnificent panoramas of the river and the surrounding landscape. The hotel's positioning provides an ideal opportunity for those embarking on the Camino de Santiago with several mentions of the hotel's closeness to this famous pilgrimage route.
Despite some minor navigation challenges reported by a few, the hotel's location is described as both beautiful and strategic, offering an easy 10-minute walk into town and good accessibility for exploring the local attractions. Its tranquil atmosphere is also noted, providing a perfect retreat from the busier city life while still being conveniently near the city center.
The combination of superb views, serene surroundings and proximity to the town's amenities makes Santana Hotel & SPA a well-regarded choice for travelers looking to experience Vila do Conde in comfort.
Breakfast
Santana Hotel & SPA's breakfast has garnered a range of opinions from guests with highlights often focusing on its extensive and diverse selection. Many guests praised the breakfast as excellent, very good and even divine. The variety and completeness of the buffet frequently received commendations with particular mentions of the plentiful, well-stocked and well-prepared offerings.
Guests appreciated the sheer quantity and choice available, noting specifics such as fresh fruit juices and sweet and savory options that cater to varied palates. The breakfast room with views over the river and the attentive breakfast service also enhanced the dining experience, adding a pleasant and scenic touch to the morning meal.
However, not all feedback was uniformly positive. Some guests expressed disappointment with the quality and variety of food, citing issues like cold scrambled eggs, dry and clumpy eggs and the occasional slow replenishment of breakfast trays. A few reviews described the breakfast as grim, poor or lacking variety, particularly when compared to expectations for a four-star hotel.
Overall, while there are areas that could benefit from improvement, the majority of guests found the breakfast at Santana Hotel & SPA to be satisfying, complete and delectable.
Dinner
Located along a scenic riverside, Santana Hotel & SPA offers a variety of dining experiences that have received mixed, yet overall positive feedback from guests. The hotel's own restaurant is frequently praised for its delicious food, cozy atmosphere and reasonable pricing. Many guests found the dinners particularly delightful, often noting the magnificent river views that accompany their meals. The Saturday dinner buffet, though considered expensive by some, evoked strong opinions regarding its value and variety with a few diners describing it as needing improvement.
Guests who enjoyed their dining experiences highlighted the very good quality and taste of both the dinners and the buffet offerings. The restaurant has been commended for good food consistency, delicious meals and excellent service, contributing to pleasurable dining experiences for individuals and groups alike. Some patrons acknowledged limited vegetarian options and the need for a more varied menu, but overall, the restaurant is regarded positively.
There were some criticisms, particularly concerning the dinner buffet's variety and the value for money. Some guests felt the offerings did not meet the standards expected of a 4-star establishment, mentioning instances of inadequate service and underwhelming buffet selections. Despite these points of contention, the majority of reviews leaned towards appreciation of the good food and enjoyable atmosphere provided by the hotel's dining services.
In summary, Santana Hotel & SPA’s restaurant generally satisfies its patrons with good quality dining, cozy settings and lovely views, though some adjustments to variety and pricing might enhance the overall guest experience.
Rooms
The guest reviews for Santana Hotel & SPA highlight several common themes about the rooms. Guests appreciate the spaciousness of the rooms, often mentioning them being large enough even for groups of three or more people. Many reviews also noted the beautiful and expansive balconies with incredible river views, contributing to a pleasant stay. Comfort is a consistent highlight with reviews repeatedly mentioning comfortable beds and bedding.
However, the reviews also draw attention to several areas in need of improvement. Numerous guests pointed out that the rooms are outdated with furniture and decor that evidently date back to the eighties or nineties. There are frequent comments about stained carpets, marked woodwork and overall tired appearances, suggesting an urgent need for renovation and maintenance. Issues such as poor lighting, broken or missing amenities and inconsistent air conditioning are also mentioned. Moreover, cleanliness seems to be a recurring problem with several guests noting dirty carpets, mold, dust, cobwebs and an overall lack of thorough cleaning.
Despite the negative aspects, the size and comfort of the rooms, along with the beautiful views and quiet atmosphere, provide a balanced perspective. The hotel's staff is often praised for being friendly and attentive, which adds a positive note to the overall experience. However, the general consensus indicates that while the rooms offer several attractive features, they would benefit greatly from updates and more rigorous maintenance.
Beds
The beds at Santana Hotel & SPA have a mix of opinions from guests. On the positive side, many guests highlight the comfort of the beds, describing them as very comfortable, cozy and spacious. Comments frequently mention large, soft and super comfy beds with good quality bedding, suggesting that a good number of guests found their sleep experience to be pleasant and inviting.
However, not all reviews are glowing. A significant number of guests reported issues with the beds. Some found the mattresses excessively soft, leading to discomfort, while others noted the mattresses were of poor quality, forming unwelcome shapes or having holes. There were also mentions of thin, uncomfortable pillows and noisy springs, detracting from the overall sleeping experience. Specific complaints included mattresses that were too soft, beds pushed together and the odd report of dirt or ants in the bed.
Overall, while many guests appreciated the comfort and size of the beds at Santana Hotel & SPA, there is a notable need for improvement, particularly with the quality and maintenance of the mattresses and pillows. Guests sensitive to mattress firmness or pillow thickness might want to consider these varying experiences when planning their stay.
Cleanliness
Santana Hotel & SPA has received a variety of feedback regarding its cleanliness from recent guests. Most reviews highlight positive aspects such as the hotel being very clean with some describing it as luxuriously clean, spotlessly clean or extremely clean. Guests appreciated the glossy clean rooms, very clean pool and clean terraces. Several remarked that everything was well-organized, presentable and had a wonderful smell throughout the hotel. Room service in terms of cleanliness was exceptional and the overall comfort and cleanliness of the rooms were commendable.
However, there were some contrasting opinions. Certain reviews pointed out deficiencies like dirty towels, stained sheets and floors and dirty windows. Specific areas such as the bathroom, jacuzzi and carpets were mentioned as needing more thorough cleaning or modernization. Some guests noted inconsistencies in cleanliness with parts of the hotel appearing either completely clean or not well-maintained at all. Negative comments also included remarks about dusty rooms, stained carpets and a consistent smell of mold.
Despite these issues, the majority view was that the hotel upheld a high standard of cleanliness, making the overall guest experience quite positive. Some areas do need attention and modernization, but the friendly and efficient cleaning staff contribute significantly to the hotel's overall appeal.
Staff
The Santana Hotel & SPA consistently receives high praise for its staff's exceptional hospitality. Guests frequently highlight the friendliness and helpful nature of the employees, making special mentions of the front desk and reception staff for their welcoming and efficient service. The general sentiment paints a picture of a team that is consistently courteous, attentive and ready to assist with any guest needs.
The attentiveness extends to the breakfast area with staff there also being described as cheerful and engaging. The spa personnel similarly receive acclaim for their professional and kind service, enhancing the overall guest experience.
While a few reviews note isolated incidents of less favorable interactions or a need for improved customer service, the overwhelming majority of guest comments reflect positively on the staff's competence and their genuine efforts to ensure a pleasant stay.
Guests particularly appreciate the warmth and support provided by the hotel team, describing their interactions as being met with smiles and sympathy. This levels up the cozy atmosphere of the hotel, making it a welcoming haven for visitors.
Overall, the strong emphasis on friendly, attentive and helpful service from the staff significantly contributes to the enjoyable experiences reported by guests at Santana Hotel & SPA.
Wi-Fi
Guests' feedback on the WiFi at Santana Hotel & SPA reveals mixed experiences. Several visitors found the WiFi to be strong in certain areas, recognizing it as a positive aspect of their stay. However, many reviews indicate significant issues with the internet connection. Common complaints included terrible and poor connections, especially within the rooms with many noting it as very weak or constantly failing. Some guests reported no WiFi in the rooms at all, describing the situation as a real disaster. There's a consensus that the internet network in the rooms could be significantly improved.
Spa
The Santana Hotel & SPA offers a spa experience that receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from its guests. Visitors frequently highlight the beautiful and tranquil nature of the indoor pool and the well-equipped gym, including a sauna and a Turkish bath. The spa is noted for being a great place to relax with many guests appreciating the spa pools and varied treatments on offer.
The massages, especially those provided by Rosa, are often described as exceptional and superb. Hygiene and cleanliness at the spa are generally praised and its atmosphere is considered very pleasant. Several guests were delighted with the spectacular river views from the spa area, which adds to its charm.
However, some areas could benefit from improvement. The spa is occasionally mentioned as being small with control issues in the jacuzzi and sometimes cold water in the spa pool. Some equipment has been reported as out of order and insulation around the spa area is found lacking by a few visitors. Access is also noted as being somewhat cumbersome for some guests due to long cold hallways.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall sentiment is that the spa at Santana Hotel & SPA is very good with excellent facilities that are well-kept and relaxing. For those looking for a peaceful retreat, the spa and its related amenities, including the Turkish bath and sauna, offer a commendable experience.
Gym
The gym at Santana Hotel & SPA receives many positive remarks with guests frequently describing it as well equipped and functional. Despite some comments noting that the gym is small and a few pieces of equipment may be out of order, the general consensus is that it’s a convenient and very good facility for workouts. The fitness area is also often highlighted as an advantage with several guests mentioning that the gym, along with the pool, stands out as one of the best features of the hotel.
Pool
Santana Hotel & SPA boasts a range of impressive aquatic amenities that have generally garnered positive feedback from its guests. The heated indoor pool is frequently highlighted with many reviewers appreciating its cleanliness and pleasant water temperature. Guests have described the pool area as being well-maintained, featuring both a sauna and a steam room which add to the overall experience.
The pool itself is sizable, making it ideal for both relaxation and swimming. Despite some comments about it being a bit crowded at times, especially during peak hours or weekends, the overall consensus is that it is a great facility. The ambiance of the pool area is often described as lovely and memorable with nice views adding to the appeal.
Many guests enjoyed spending time in the jacuzzi, although there were occasional mentions of it being slightly cooler than expected. The spa area, which includes various jacuzzis, is another well-received feature, contributing to an atmosphere of relaxation and luxury.
Some constructive remarks mentioned that the pool could benefit from being warmer and there were instances of excessive chlorine. The availability of sun loungers was also a point of contention with some finding it inadequate. Nevertheless, the pool and spa area consistently receive praise for their top-notch and beautiful settings, making them stand-out features of the Santana Hotel & SPA.
Parking
The Santana Hotel & SPA offers a range of parking options that generally receive positive feedback from guests. Ample and free parking spaces are frequently highlighted as a significant advantage. The parking area is described as spacious and conveniently located near the rooms, making it easily accessible for guests. An additional perk is the free car charging station available for electric vehicles. The hotel provides private parking inside the facilities, contributing to the convenience and security of guests' vehicles.
However, there are a few mixed reviews regarding the organization and maintenance of the parking area. Some guests found it difficult to park due to the limited availability of spaces at times and there were occasional issues with drainage and expired parking cards. Overall, while there are a few areas for improvement, the parking facilities generally meet the needs of guests with ample space and convenient access being the most appreciated features.
Family
Santana Hotel & SPA offers a welcoming environment ideal for family vacations. Families will find a variety of activities to keep both children and adults entertained with many guests appreciating the family-friendly atmosphere and the numerous children spotted enjoying the pool and spa facilities. The hotel is particularly noted for its spacious family rooms, which provide privacy and comfort for both parents and kids.
Visitors have praised the hotel's family-centric approach, highlighting its value for money in terms of family accommodations. The dining options are well-suited for families, ensuring that meals are convenient and enjoyable. Despite some moments of noise in the spa and pool area, particularly from visiting football teams, the overall experience remains positive with staff who are welcoming and helpful.
Santana Hotel & SPA stands out as a good choice for family travel, making it easy and enjoyable for families to spend quality time together without being restricted by schedules.
4 Star
Santana Hotel & SPA has faced controversy regarding its four-star rating with numerous guests noting that it does not live up to the expected standards of a hotel in this category. Many reviews express disappointment with the hotel's lack of amenities and overall maintenance, suggesting that the establishment may have been deserving of its four-star status in the past, but currently falls short. Complaints about the dated and poorly maintained rooms, persistent smell of mold and old windows are common. Furthermore, breakfast offerings have been described as weak and underwhelming for a hotel of this caliber.
Despite these issues, some guests found the service appropriate for a four-star hotel and considered the hotel to offer good value for money. However, the general consensus is that the state of the building requires significant attention and possibly renovations to align with the standards expected of a four-star establishment. Many believe that the hotel’s rating should be reviewed, as the quality and condition presented do not meet the expectations of a four-star experience.
Business
The Santana Hotel & SPA caters well to business travelers, offering a range of business-friendly facilities that make it ideal for professional stays. The hotel boasts spacious lounges and common areas, ensuring guests have plenty of room to work and relax. Business accommodations are well-regarded with efficient check-in and check-out processes that are particularly convenient for those on tight schedules.
The hotel's business zone includes large conference rooms suitable for events and meetings, providing ample space for both small and large gatherings. These facilities have been praised for their spaciousness and utility, adding to the hotel's appeal for corporate events and conferences.
Despite the absence of a bar, the hotel remains a solid choice for business travelers looking for supportive, business-focused services and amenities.
Accessible
Santana Hotel & SPA offers a commendable level of accessibility for guests with disabilities. The hotel provides accessible parking and is spacious and well-equipped for wheelchair users. Both the hotel and the spa demonstrate good accessibility and are easy to navigate. Guests have highlighted the convenience of the accessible rooms and the overall barrier-free access throughout the property. While there was no mention of an assistance trolley and some areas may not be very accessible for those with restricted mobility, the hotel generally stands out as a great option for disabled travelers seeking a comfortable and accessible stay.
Heated Pool
The heated pool at Santana Hotel & SPA is a standout feature frequently praised by guests in their reviews. Visitors appreciate the large, warm and cozy indoor swimming pool, which is described as excellent and fantastic. Despite a few comments noting the pool water as slightly cold, the overall experience of the heated pool is enjoyed by many with its good size being a notable highlight. Whether looking for a refreshing swim or a relaxing dip, the heated pool at this hotel remains a favored amenity among its guests.
Honeymoon
Santana Hotel & SPA emerges as a premier destination for honeymooners, consistently delighting couples with a dream-like experience. The hotel offers a perfect setting for romance, making it an ideal choice for an unforgettable honeymoon. Guests often remark on the quiet and cozy ambiance, which is particularly suited for a romantic getaway. The honeymoon suite stands out as a highlight, providing a luxurious and intimate space that enhances the overall experience. Memorable surprises and thoughtful touches contribute to what many describe as a beautiful honeymoon destination. Santana Hotel & SPA ensures that every stay is unique and cherished, creating lasting memories for newlyweds.
Romantic
Nestled in a quiet area ideal for disconnecting, Santana Hotel & SPA offers a distinctly romantic atmosphere perfect for couples looking to escape. Its serene setting and enchanting ambiance make it a prime choice for a romantic weekend or an extended getaway. The hotel is particularly suited for honeymooners and those seeking a cozy, romantic nook to share special moments.
With stunning romantic views and a charming, intimate atmosphere, guests can indulge in a romantic candlelight dinner or simply relax together. Whether planning a quick romantic escape or a longer trip, this spot promises a lovely experience for couples yearning for tranquility and connection. From romantic getaways to celebrating milestones, this hotel proves to be an ideal backdrop for romance and relaxation.
Yes, Santana Hotel & SPA has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Heated Pool, Indoor Pool.
Yes, a spa is available at Santana Hotel & SPA.
No, Santana Hotel & SPA doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Santana Hotel & SPA.