Carpeted with lush flora and fauna and speckled with bubbling hot springs, the Azorean island of São Miguel offers a bounty of thrilling experiences—from hiking to caving to diving—all within 300 square miles. But before you set out on your nature excursions, you’ll need to set up a base camp. Check into one of these ten hotels in Ponta Delgada to pair adventure with relaxation.
Azor Hotel
This striking 5-star waterfront hotel is a short walk away from the 18th-century Portas da Cidade, or City Gates, and the popular Mercato da Graça (farmer’s market). Guests in search of relaxation will enjoy the eco-luxury spa and spacious rooms with seaside balconies overlooking the Baixa do Poção. Babysitter services and a play space for kids provide additional relief for harried parents.
azorhotel.com
Azoris Royal Garden
Beyond bright, contemporary guest rooms, the Azoris Royal Garden also provides an onsite tennis court, heated indoor pool, spa, hairdresser, manicured walkways, three restaurants, a bar, and a Zen Garden. If that’s not enough, locally made ice cream at the garden-adjacent coffee shop makes for a delicious perk, too.
azorishotels.com
Casa das Palmeiras
Smack in the middle of the city, this 1901 Art Nouveau building stuns with restored stucco ceilings and mosaic floors. Ten quaint guest rooms make up the first and second floors, with balconies providing scenic views of the city and sea. The property provides picnics to go, and the breakfast of local pastries and fruit is best enjoyed on the terrace.
casapalmeiras.com
Herdade do Ananás
Near Ponta Delgada in the quiet town of São Roque, this picturesque pineapple plantation welcomes guests with wellness options encompassing the region’s famous fruit (think Ayurvedic massages inside the greenhouse). Enjoy a traditional Azorean breakfast in the glass-walled dining room and a nightcap by the outdoor fire pit. Take a tour of the pineapple greenhouses and then relax with a dip in the heated greenhouse pool.
herdadedoananas.com
Hotel Marina Atlântico
Adorned with tall, white masts and floors mimicking wooden decks, the aptly named Hotel Marina Atlântico is designed to resemble a docked ship. Situated in the heart of the city across from the Portas do Mar (Gates of the Sea), expect private balconies with marina views and afternoon São Miguel tea at the property’s Palhabote Bar.
bensaudehotels.com
Hotel Talisman
This renovated 17th-century property bursts with classic Azorean Art Deco design in its soaring lobby and sultry lounge. Set in the heart of Ponta Delgada and surrounded by gardens and cobblestone walkways, guests appreciate the indoor and rooftop pools, spacious suites, and expansive breakfast menu.
hoteltalisman.com
Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico
Set across from the Portas do Mar (Gates of the Sea) and designed in the Grand European style, this plush 5-star hotel aims to impress with 140 opulent rooms (including ten suites) offering a choice between city and ocean views. Savor contemporary Azorean cuisine at the Balcony restaurant or take a dip in the heated indoor pool.
bensaudehotels.com
Out of the Blue Azores
Friendships form and strengthen at this upscale hostel offering “curious travelers, explorers, and dreamers” a taste of local life. Contemporary shared and private rooms, yoga, workspaces, garden hammocks, excursions, and Friday night pizza parties guided by enthusiastic staff promise a communal travel experience.
outoftheblueazores.com
Pedras do Mar Resort and Spa
This resort’s solar panels, water recycling, and waste reduction methods mirror some of the efforts that contribute to the Azores’ reputation as one of the most eco-friendly tourist destinations in the world. Set on the island’s northern shore next to the must-try piscinas naturais (natural pools), make good use of the Turkish bath, spa, and indoor and outdoor pools.
pedrasdomar.com
Senhora da Rosa
This renovated 18th-century orange (and later, pineapple) farm is another testament to Azoreans’ reverence for the natural world, with its 35 rooms and two private cabins designed in calming earth tones to fit the surrounding lush greenery. Among its unique amenities are the hammam spa, a black stone infinity pool, and hot water tank within the pineapple greenhouse.
senhoradarosa.com
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