Tucked away in a small street behind a cast-iron gate is a beautiful little hotel with phenomenal views over the city of Lisbon and the Tagus River. Upon entering, you step into another world: an oasis of calm that makes you instantly forget the hustle and bustle of the city. 2 historic palaces and a manor house exude the atmosphere of bygone Portuguese noble times and all house different types of rooms, all very atmospheric and furnished with modern comforts so that the pampered traveller has a wonderful ‘escape’ in this busy metropolis. Cherry on the cake is the Michelin star restaurant housed in this Hideaway.
I finish my trip on São Miguel on the south side of the island, here is a small exclusive hotel hidden behind a long white wall. You cannot imagine from the outside what is hidden behind the door and it’s such a surprise when you have entered and see the fantastic view from the terrace at the back. WOW, this is sea view… the Atlantic Ocean seems to embrace you, as the hotel is located on top of a spectacular volcanic cliff right by the sea. This hotel is ‘adults only’, something that fits well with its small scale and exclusivity.
Mário and Filipa are island pioneers… coming from mainland Portugal, they were looking for ‘slow living’ and fell in love with São Miguel. This is where they wanted to live their 2nd life. Their first project are two tiny houses located in the north of the island a stone’s throw from the best (surf) beach. The houses are cosy and comfi with a small kitchenette. Should you want more space or a little more luxury, they also have some lovely villas scattered around the island.
The second Hideaway on São Miguel is located in a very special place: in the middle of a volcanic crater in the village of Furnas. The environment here is spectacular …. It is very green with lots of ferns and beautiful flowers, everywhere there are geysers steaming and hot springs bubbling. It creates a mysterious atmosphere and the village looks a bit like a film set. The biggest plus of this hotel is its own thermal springs (both indoors and outdoors), which guests can use 24 hours a day.