Six Senses Douro Valley | GM, Nick Yarnell

January 18, 2021

My guest today is Nick Yarnell, the General Manager of Six Senses Douro Valley

This hotel is one you just have to see to believe. It’s set in a completely renovated 19th century manor house, high on a hill. While lounging at the pool, doing yoga, or sipping port on the patio – you’ll look down onto the shimmering Douro River flanked by lush green, terraced mountains growing some of the most under appreciated grapes in all of Europe.

This is the kind of place where doing nothing but enjoying is an accomplishment. Where learning just one new tidbit can shape the way you think about the world. Your days will be filled with stand up paddle boarding, visiting the spa, boating, hiking, or wine tasting.

Then you’ll settle back in, at arguably the best hotel in Portugal, for a relaxed evening celebrating your day.

Nick and I discuss how Six Senses takes sustainability and wellness to another level, the friendly hospitality in this region of Portugal, and the fascinating history of the manor house.

Listen to hear:

02:20 – About Nick’s favorite spot on the property
04:38 – What sets Douro Valley apart from other wine regions in Europe
09:03 – How Six Senses cultivated its special identity toward wellness and sustainability
14:11 – About Nick’s view on wellness and what gives Six Senses an edge in this area
18:06 – The historic details of the hotel
23:22 – Why the property’s activity program is one of a kind
28:08 – About some special experiences of past guests
29:43 – About the emotional connections that happen on property
35:59 – Why Nick puts so much heart into his role
36:57 – What you will learn about the world after visiting Six Senses Douro Valley