Hara Pousada e SPA

We had dinner at the hotel one evening, pasta with shrimp, and it was really good. Breakfast had a range of local juices, cakes, and regional treats like tapioca. The place is small, private, and very peaceful, with a big, nicely decorated room and bathroom. Staff were helpful with everything, and the small pool and private beach were both relaxing. They also offer tailored activities such as massage and yoga. It’s a few minutes from Xepa Street and close to the lovely sunset at Tourinhos beach. I really enjoyed the stay.

The location is a little way from the center, which means things are much quieter here. It feels like a cozy boutique hotel, with a natural, comfortable landscape full of flowers, trees, butterflies, and fresh scents. The rooms are nicely decorated, with a large bathroom and strong air conditioning. There’s no TV, though I didn’t feel it was needed. Breakfast is a buffet with items you can order as well, and the chef does a great job. They also put out free afternoon tea, and I really liked the cake. It’s a calm, private kind of stay, rather than the feel of a big commercial five-star hotel.

The beach right in front is nice, although anyone looking for calm, nearly wave-free water will need to drive about 10 minutes to Tourinhos. Hara is also close enough to reach the city’s amenities and attractions with a short walk or drive. What stayed with me most was the landscape, beautifully preserved and a wonderful place to meditate, connect with nature, and take in the moment. The rooms are clean, spacious, comfortable, and clearly made for unwinding. Everyone at Hara was kind, polite, gentle, and friendly, always ready to help or offer advice on where to go. I could write a whole chapter about what lovely people they are. Hara feels like a little piece of heaven, and I’d say go discover it yourself.

We could walk into town for restaurants, but ended up loving Elixir, the Pousada’s own restaurant. Its food was the best we had in Sao Miguel, creative, tasty, and pure. We’re both kitesurfers and could go out right by the pousada, with the beach to ourselves. My girlfriend’s instructor came to us, so most of the time it was just the three of us at our spot. Hara felt like a second home, somewhere to relax, breathe out, and enjoy the beauty around us. The garden is spectacular and carefully looked after, every room feels individual, and the staff seem genuinely happy to work there. The owners became friends. We looked forward to waking up for the delicious breakfast, much of it homemade. Hara Pousada e Spa is a paradise, and we can’t wait to return.