2 Best Hotels in Pico, The Azores

Owners Jose and Louisa, former sociologists from Lisbon, have transformed their summer vacation property into a truly unique place to stay, with a collection of six elegant volcanic rock cottages and two sophisticated two-bedroom villas, all decorated with artifacts collected during their extensive travels around the world. Just outside are a vineyard, walking trails, and a swimming pool. Every room is different, though all are a mix of the traditional (beamed ceilings and stone walls) and the modern (carefully selected furnishings from South America, Southeast Asia, and elsewhere). All guests get a lovely breakfast with homemade products, and there’s an honesty bar with drinks available. The owners also produce a limited amount of their own Pocinho Bay white wine.

You can’t miss this hotel in the southwest of Madalena, with its pointed roofs and bright red exterior; inside, the décor is still modern but more subdued, and its large-sized rooms, relaxing spa, and indoor-outdoor pool make for a comfortable stay. Guest rooms, with beige walls and light-colored furnishings with green accents, have views of the sea or Mount Pico; some rooms include small kitchenettes and balconies. Besides the indoor and outdoor pools, the spa has a sauna, steam room, and hot tub. There’s also an on-site restaurant that serves up Azorean cuisine.