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Porto, a haven for wine lovers

It's time to start thinking about summer getaways: where, when, where to stay and what to do. Here is our guide to Porto, the city which gave port its name

Located in the historic city of Porto, The Yeatman Hotel & Wine Spa takes prime position as it overlooks the River Douro, providing the idyllic holiday setting by day and by night.

Porto, the city which gave its name to Port, has been the home of British wine shippers for over three centuries. Inspired by this heritage, The Yeatman blends the finest Portuguese traditions of hospitality with a uniquely British flair for understated and stylish comfort.

A true wine-lover experience, the Yeatman won the coveted "Best Wine List" award in 2011 with over 1,000 different wines in its 25,000 bottle cellar. As a guest you are free to meet with the sommelier, who will talk you through your wine choice to match your evening meal, which will be prepared in the Michelin starred restaurant run by award winning chef Ricardo Costa.

One of Europe's great wine capitals, Porto is close to four fabulous, historic vineyard areas; the Minho, Douro, Dão and Bairrada. So of course there is a host of wonderful food, wine and port excursions to be had.

The Yeatman oozes decadence and charm. You will find quirky details throughout its décor, reminding you that this is a Hotel & Wine Spa, designed with just that in mind. The building itself replicates the Douro valley, with all rooms facing onto a large lawn and panoramic views of the city.

Here are our top five things to do:

1. Explore the old Port warehouses that explain the making of the famous fortified wine that took the city's name. Here you'll learn about the fascinating history of port wine, as well as that of the House of Taylor Fladgate, one of the oldest of the founding port houses

2. Take a city tour, or have a wander independently. Walk over the famous double deck Dom Luis Bridge which will bring you to the northern bank and the UNESCO world heritage city. From there, meander through the quaint streets, making your way to the Sé cathedral, spotting the beautiful tile decorations along the way

3. Go to the beach. The beaches of Foz, Matosinhos and Vila Nova de Gaia are really easy to get to from Porto and worth a few hours in the sun and sea to complete your trip

4. Take a cruise down the beautiful River Douro

5. And of course, you mustn't leave Porto without experiencing one of the many port vineyards around the Douro region