OVERVIEW \ modern eco-villas STARTING AT $150

Located on the north coast of Sao Miguel, the largest of the Azore Islands, sits Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort, a contemporary Beach Resort with private villas that enjoy spectacular views of both the mountains and the sea. The 14 villas are modern in design, incorporating dark polished concrete and natural elements such as driftwood, ranging from single rooms with kitchenettes to 2 bedroom villas with private outdoor Jacuzzis. The large outdoor infinity pool disappears into the dark azul waters with private access to the renowned Santa Barabara beach that stretches over 1/2 mile of sand. Whether you are coming for relaxation or adventure, Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort is the perfect place to enjoy the spectacular "green island" of the Azores archipeligo.

ROOMS

With its facades of cork and wood, the modern villas blend harmoniously into the environment. Inside, dark polished concrete is reminiscent of the volcanic rock of the Azores Islands. It is used not only as flooring, but also in wall and furniture design. All villas have a bathroom, living room, small kitchen, terrace and, depending on their location, have great views of the resort, beach and stunning mountain range. The Garden Villas have beautiful views of the resort’s garden and with it, floral scents, many endemic to the island. The Blue & Green Villas feature views of the beach or the Serra da Lagoa do Fogo. The Retreat Villas are the most exclusive at the resort, and also have a private Jacuzzi.

HIGHLIGHTs

Enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet each morning of fresh local products from Furnas and Ribeira Grande.

The restaurant Areais offers a menu of authentic flavors, achieved through the freshness of local and seasonal ingredients. Guests can also enjoy the best sushi and sashimi made with fish from the Azores. Enjoy a delicious cocktail or local passion-fruit soda in the beautiful bar with spectacular views of the sea!

If the beach is your thing, relax at the Beach Club offering light meals and a magical environment situated on the famous Santa Barbara Beach .

"Fill your fridge" service - just as it sounds, for a set fee, they will fill your fridge with delicious goodies so that you can utilize your kitchenette.

An extra convenient perk is the ability to book any activity or service via an ipad in your room. Bonus!

ESSENTIALS

Salt water swimming pool, restaurant, bar, beach club, spa services, free wifi , AC, private jacuzzis, kitchenette, bike rentals

LOCATION

Estrada Regional nº1, 1º Morro de Baixo, Ribeira Seca, Ribeira Grande, Portugal

Located on the north coast of Sao Miguel, the closest city is Ribeira Grande, just 2km away.

The closest airport is João Paulo II Airport, 16km away

RATES

One bedroom villas starting at $150/night.

NEED TO KNOW

Children are welcome! Childcare and cots are available upon request.

One pet/room is allowed. Please inquire for details.

WORTH CHECKING OUT

Onsite activities include massages, yoga and cooking classes, and surf lessons.

The resort can help organize off-site activities such as scuba diving, whale watching, canyoning, fishing, as well as walking and bike tours.

CONTACT \ BOOKING

Visit their website for more information and check out their instagram @santa_barbara_azores.

*review and images by contributor Jarusha Brown