Residencial São Francisco by Umbral

We had a terrible night and got no sleep. The room was too hot and had no air conditioning. Opening the balcony doors wasn’t an option for long because of the noise from cars and motorbikes, so we had to shut them again. I wouldn’t recommend it.

The rooms were clean and tidy, and the location is nice. But the beds were very uncomfortable, the windows barely opened, and there’s no elevator. The building and rooms really need renovation.

It’s in central Horta near the marina, but I wouldn’t choose it if you have other options. The beds are poor, and the windows hardly close, so you hear the noisy paved street outside. Breakfast is just the bare necessities, with no local treats or even fresh juice.

Hotel Sao Francisco ought to be called Hotel Sao Thieves. My daughter and I went for a short walk, then came back to find the maid or cleaning staff looking in the small side pockets of my backpack. Luckily, I had my money and passports with me. I complained at the desk, but it went in one ear and out the other. If I could, I’d give Hotel Sao Thieves zero stars.