Caparica Azores Ecolodge

The host was kind and welcoming, and the service was excellent. It’s a lovely hidden spot surrounded by nature, and we had a great stay. I’m still giving it four stars, though, after thinking it over. Our early departure meant we couldn’t eat breakfast, which doesn’t start until 8:30. They offered to pack it in Tupperware the day before, a reasonable fix, but it wasn’t as good as the fresh breakfast we’d paid for. We also noticed a smell from the pipes or toilet. The place was very clean and the odor wasn’t overpowering, but it bothered us. For a premium nature getaway, even a mild sewer-like smell feels out of place. I understand the open-plan concept, but it needs to work well. Still, it was a lovely experience.

We had a lot of fun, and the service was exceptional. Carla did so much for us, more than anyone could ask. While carrying a 25 kg suitcase upstairs, she even called the restaurant to make our reservation. Thanks, Carla!

The service was very friendly, and breakfast had lots of fresh fruit and local products, which are good points. The cabin was smaller than I expected, though that was okay. Humidity was the bigger problem. Without a dehumidifier, the room became extremely damp when it rained and sometimes after showering, since there’s no bathroom door. Even the sheets, blankets and pillows felt damp. The AC didn’t do the job as well as a dehumidifier would, and with so many mosquitoes around, opening the window wasn’t a good option either. Other places we stayed in the Azores had dehumidifiers, so I’d give this place three stars.

The garden around the houses is beautiful, and the town sits at the bottom of the road. There’s also a wonderful natural swimming pool nearby, full of fish, shrimps and other sea life. We spent three nights here in September and loved this magical little house in the forest. Our unit was at the far end of the property, looking out to the ocean. It’s compact, but a great fit if you love nature. Everything was clean, breakfast was delicious, and the cheerful ladies serving it made it even nicer. We’d happily stay again.