Quinta da Montanha Hotel ***

Built on the hillside in a rural location, 24km from Praia, this delightful, privately owned and family run Quinta is a very special find.

With only ten simply furnished rooms, the atmosphere and warm welcome that you will receive is almost like visiting friends at their rural country retreat. Communal balconies face out towards spectacular mountainside scenery.

Quinta da Montanha is a rural hotel for hikers and for the time being the only accommodation next to the National Park "Pico da Antónia" which is named after the highest mountain on the island of Santiago and is one of the biggest forest areas in the country. The quiet surrounding is ideal for relaxing. Hikers get competent advice and when needed, and for the ascent to the summit of Pico da Antonia, appointments with local guides are made.

It is a designated part of a working farm, 24km and about 45 minutes by road from Praia. The Quinta specialises in eco and agro tourism and it produces organic crops and fruit for use not only in the hotel kitchen but also for the local community.  Naturally the restaurant food, which is often produced in wood-fired ovens, is superb.

Opinion

Excellent for walkers and those who appreciate a tranquil atmosphere. Evening meals are home cooked and included in the holiday price.