MS Collection Aveiro Palacete Valdemouro

Mastery of 'a arte de servir' What a beautiful experience it has been to stay in this mansion hotel, MS Collection Aveiro. With my first steps in the door I was greeted with kindness and a warm welcome by Hugo. I specifically asked to only be spoken to in Português, even though the entire concierge team is fluent in English, to help me learn the language. The concierge seemingly didn't mind slowing down for my brain to catch up to them, even helping me with translations and conjugations as I gained the confidence to communicate more each day. Special thank you to José who had the patience to wait for the punchline of my joke that I attempted in a 2nd language. While every interaction at the hotel was positive, José and Hugo stood out with their top notch helpful hospitality service. As for the physical building, the hotel is pristine with regal decor. Red velvet stairs are illuminated by sunflowers, leading you to the pockets of history in the 24 hour library. The mansion-turned-hotel celebrates the life and works of Eça de Queriós, famous novelist and diplomat. Each room is named for a character created by Eça. I stayed in the suite named for Artur Corvelo, the protagonist in "A Capital" by Eça de Queriós. I appreciated a gold framed mirror tv (though I never used the tv) that opened the space and reflected the art from above the headboard and the chandelier. The carved mahogany writing desk with a tufted red and gold chair inspired me to do my own writing. Every evening I enjoyed the sweets coupled with literary 'sweet nothings' at turn down service. Brenda would leave (translated) poetic quotes by Eça de Queirós on the nightstand, inviting reflection and introspection while winding down for the night. These details created a remarkable and unique experience. Not to be forgotten was the luxurious glass bottomed outdoor lap pool, sparkling above the Turkish spa 'Moments'. Admittedly the visual of the pools on the website is what drew me to stay with MS Collections Aveiro. Now having experienced it and used the spa amenities daily, I highly recommend receiving a Drenagem Lynfática massage to solve any jet lag issues. My massage therapist, Catarina, was professional, strong, and provided great communication, which led to an absolutely blissful spa experience. (This is saying something because as an athlete I am rather particular about massages.) Above the spa, by the pool I enjoyed a daily feast of a breakfast by the modern art celebrating Eça de Queirós. As an American nutritionist, it was an enlightened experience demonstrating how Portuguese culture prioritizes "the most important meal of the day." It was the best kind of culture shock. I look forward to experimenting with recreating these recipes to incorporate into nutrition planning. This was a meaningful stay for my first experience in Aveiro. Your attentive employees are the true stars of this experience. Espero ficar consigo outra vez. Muito obrigado. Até o próximo verão!

It’s been a month or two since my trip to Portugal, and I’m thoroughly missing this hotel. This hotel was located in a beautiful city, with amazing amenities and top class staff. The in-house restaurant also has amazing breakfasts, we didn’t really get to try the dinner menu, but I’m sure it’s just as delicous. I would strongly recommend staying here. I would be wary of one thing, the parking situation near this part of town is tricky, however, within walking distance is free overnight parking near the canal that we used. You can ask the concierge to direct you to it, it’s about a 8 minute walk. Which, to be honest, is a joy in a beautiful town like Aveiro.

During our two-week trip in Portugal, we had a one-night layover in Aveiro. We chose the MS Collection Aveiro, a Hilton-affiliated hotel, for our stay. It was the best accommodation we had during our entire trip. The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful. One of them, Daniel, shared local dining recommendations with us and was passionate about the building’s history. Our room was luxurious, spotlessly clean, and well-appointed. We also enjoyed breakfast at the hotel, which offered a diverse menu with made-to-order items and a buffet. Our stay far exceeded our expectations.