Pousada Solar das Gaivotas

I really enjoyed staying there. It's a beautiful, charming place with a good welcome and breakfast.

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The inn is simple and cozy, and I had a great experience. The staff are polite, friendly, and helpful whenever we need anything. Breakfast was tasty and plentiful. It's a long way from the center, so you need to call a taxi to get around. I didn't consider that a downside, but it's worth mentioning. The animals are an attraction in their own right. It was lovely to see how they interact with the staff and with guests who are open to receiving their affection and sometimes unusual ways.

The wildlife and the people made this place memorable. I loved seeing the parrots and the friendly toucan come eat fruit right from my plate. The owner was often around sharing stories about the area and its residents, plus tips for outings. Staff were wonderful, especially the receptionist who helped arrange tours so we wouldn't miss out. The woman in the kitchen made caramelized bananas that were divine, and fresh tapioca; breakfast had a nice range of cakes for a small inn. The inn itself feels rustic and welcoming, but the upkeep let it down. The bathrooms are dated, there was mold in the grout, and some bedroom floor tiles were loose and broken. We stayed three days and the room wasn't swept once. Sand is hard to avoid at the beach, but it had built up at reception too, and that got irritating. I'd consider returning if it weren't for all that sand. There are other places at similar or better prices, so it's worth looking around.