Ali and Catherine invite you to experience slow travel at its finest in their lovingly restored historic home. Surrounded by green hills with a beautiful ocean view, Solar Branco Eco Estate is truly one of a kind.
Upon arrival you’ll be warmly greeted and settled in to your private cottage. Take time to rest, enjoy your complimentary bottle of local wine, stroll through the garden caressed by citrus-infused breezes, play with their sweet dogs, and make your way to the daily Gin O ‘Clock in the Gin Library.
So you may deeply connect with nature, Catherine leads soul-soothing Forest Bathing experiences (Shinrin Yoku) in the Azorean countryside. A wild tea ceremony is presented at the conclusion, with tea made from foraged plants.
With their grand opening in August 2020, you may be the first to experience this remarkably eco and magical place.
"Our mission is to restore and run this historical estate, built over 100 years old, as a luxury, eco focused hotel, showcasing the heritage and beauty of the location on the island of Sao Miguel, in the Azores archipelago.
We are creating an ecotourism business that supports both the local economy and its potential for future growth, as well as environmental initiatives, to help ensure the both estate and the Azores remain a sustainable paradise for generations to come.”
Eco practices include:
Organic and fair trade/direct trade products.
Sustainable seafood and humanely-raised meats.
Vegan options.
Local sourcing/seasonal focus.
Ethical standards for suppliers.
Sustainable building and design practices include recycled or local building materials in construction and FSC certified wood in gardens.
Renewable energy and/or energy conservation practices including electricity reduction reminders and audits, energy-efficient appliances, energy-efficient light bulbs, and energy efficient windows.
Water conservation includes rainwater harvesting.
Waste reduction management includes recycling glass, plastic, and composting. A zero food waste organisation. Free recycling of Christmas trees on the estate (saving them from landfill).
Eco-friendly cleaning products.
100% organic and pesticide-free estate and grounds.
Social Good:
Fair labor values including full minimum hourly wage for both tipped and non-tipped staff. Staff is paid above the industry average in the Azores, plus profit share.
Comprehensive training program.
Transparency in tipping for staff and guests.
Advance scheduling for all employees (at least two weeks in advance).
Fair overtime practices, upward mobility opportunities, owner accessibility for staff.
Promote ridesharing and/or public transportation.
Educate staff on sustainability.
Analyze social/environmental impact of business investments.
Charitable/local community contributions: 1% of profits are donated to Ponta Delgada's Childrens' home (upon opening) and 100% of profits from expat events are donated to charity.
Amenities include:
Free parking
Wireless internet
Water, Tea, and Coffee
Local guides and booking service
Complimentary mini-bar
In-room service menu
A bottle of Azorean wine on arrival
Bag storage (if traveling to other islands)
Family friendly
The Cottage Room Details:
52 Square Meters
King Size Bed/Twin bed
Sitting Area
Rain shower/on-suite bathroom
Check-in 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM | Check-out 12:00 PM (flexible where possible)
No smoking please.
ROOM RATES: From €100 per night
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Reservations can be cancelled or amended free of charge up to 14 days before 12 noon (local time) of the first day of the Guest’s reservation, as stated in their booking. If a reservation is cancelled any later than that, the Guest will be charged for the total amount of the intended stay.