Solar Branco is a place steeped in history, character, and a unique atmosphere. This adults-only retreat is situated on an old estate whose roots stretch back to the 19th century. At that time, orange exports brought prosperity to the region in the Azores, and it is precisely from this era that the property originates, around which numerous stories still circulate today.
Between 2018 and 2023, the neglected but beautiful estate was lovingly renovated by Caroline and her husband Ali and reopened in the summer of 2023. Their goal: to create a sustainable boutique hideaway that preserves its historical charm while incorporating modern minimalism.
Each building, each room tells its own story; nothing feels standardized or interchangeable. The design follows a clear, Azorean aesthetic: minimalist, serene, and yet warm. Color schemes reflect the surroundings: blue for the sea in the main house, orange as a tribute to the former orange groves, and soft pink tones that recall the history of the place. Large windows and plenty of natural light create an open, relaxed atmosphere.
A particular highlight is the hotel's own gin library with over 2,500 gins from around the world, as well as its own gin brand. Every evening, guests are invited to enjoy a gin and tonic, a ritual that provides a relaxing end to the day.
Rooms + Rates
per night| Suite | from100 € |
Characteristics
- Adults-only retreat on an old estate whose roots date back to the 19th century
- Located on São Miguel, the largest island of the Azores, with views of the landscape and ocean
- Historic property, sustainably renovated
- Individual rooms of varying sizes in different buildings
- Breakfast with local, seasonal products, our own produce, homemade bread and cakes
- Gin library with over 2,500 gins, daily gin & tonic, in-house gin brand
- Exclusive digital travel guide for the island for guests
- Many activities on the island: hiking, hot springs, volcanic beaches, surfing, canyoning, boat tours, all reachable within an hour.
Sustainable
Each room is individually designed, blending historical character with sustainability and modern comfort. During the renovation, as much as possible was reused and recycled, complemented by excellent insulation. Local materials such as Japanese cedar and volcanic stone were primarily used, along with regionally sourced furniture crafted from leftover wood into unique pieces.
Breakfast focuses on local, seasonal products, including homegrown fruit and eggs from their own chickens. Homemade bread and cakes are also available, along with many regional foods that, while often not certified, are in fact sustainably produced. On select evenings, sushi is offered exclusively for pre-booked guests to avoid food waste, with a focus on sustainably caught fish from local waters. Leftover food is consistently composted or fed to the chickens to support the natural cycle.
The entire team is from the island of São Miguel and works under exceptionally fair conditions: permanent contracts, two months of vacation per year, monthly profit-sharing, and an annual bonus. Employees also benefit from complimentary drinks in the Gin Library and paid admission to regional trade fairs. In addition to supporting the Ocean Azores Foundation, the establishment is also committed to animal welfare, supporting programs for the neutering and reintegration of stray cats in collaboration with Animais da Rua.
Solar energy, electric vehicle charging stations, and sensor-based outdoor lighting ensure reduced energy consumption, while well-insulated buildings and ceiling fans minimize the need for heating and cooling. Recycling and composting are consistently practiced, cleaning is done with environmentally friendly products, and water and electricity consumption are carefully monitored. There is no swimming pool; instead, the sea and the island's natural hot springs invite guests to bathe. In addition, €5 per night is donated to the Ocean Azores Foundation to support marine conservation projects, supplemented by 50 cents from every drink purchased from the Gin Library – a total of approximately €15,000 annually, about which guests are fully informed.
Guests can book massages with a local provider who comes directly to the rooms. The island is also a paradise for nature lovers, with great hiking trails, spectacular views, natural hot springs, black volcanic beaches, and opportunities for surfing, canyoneering, and boat trips along the coast.
Features
- Small hotel with 8 suites
- Four suites in the main building, four more suites in annexes
- Daily breakfast included in the room price
- All rooms have a refrigerator and tea/coffee making facilities.
- Dining room (Green Pantry) with covered terrace
- Gin Library with over 2,500 gins and outdoor area
- Sushi and Mexican street food offerings
- Guests aged 16 and over are welcome.
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