Vila Branca Residencial

We arrived expecting a lot after reading the reviews, but this was easily our most disappointing stay. We were put in the disabled room on the ground floor, and as soon as we arrived, staff said our bike boxes meant we couldn't have bikes in the room. There was nothing about that in the hotel policy online, and we'd never run into that rule on our travels. The room looked clean but smelled musty. When we used the shower, the blocked drain caused it to overflow immediately, and water spread from the bathroom into the main room. We realized the musty smell was from the water, and the shower cubicle seal kept it from draining back inside. We called the owner right away to ask for another room. She was rude and quite aggressive, at one point telling us to leave because they couldn't move us, though she later said someone would come to clean up. Nobody came all night, so we slept in a flooded room and arranged another hotel for the next day. Nothing this horrible has happened to us on holiday before. The man at the desk apologized the following day, and we got a refund, but it was a stressful, awful experience. I'd advise against staying here.

Our room was clean and big enough for the two of us, with a nice shower and a little balcony that got morning sun. Staff were friendly and helpful. Downstairs there’s a wash room with a shower, sink, and toilet, which is perfect when it’s time to head home. The main square isn't too far, though the walk is uphill. It was easier with a few stops along the way.

We stayed for 10 days and found it safe, peaceful, comfortable, well located, and good value. Airport transport was good and affordable. I liked having a balcony, where I could sit outside with coffee and cookies each morning. We never needed the air conditioning. As this seems to be a family business run by women, power to the women 💪🏽 You may hear noise at different times, like new guests arriving or people returning from late nights out. Even so, after busy days hiking, swimming, kayaking, and drinking, we still slept well. That's why I'm giving it five stars.

A very nice hotel, and the staff were friendly.