Some of the furniture already worn out (esp. kitchen), floor very hard to clean due to structure, cockroach in the room once (usual for the area, but still not so fun)

Nice design in a historical building and beautiful surroundings, many helpful suggestions by staff

Stayed in June 2025

It would have been helpful to have some guidance about using the laundry. Our clothes and towels took a long time to dry.

Our family (from ages 5-75) took over all 5 casitas. We rented cars at the airport, only about 15 minutes away from the property. The breakfasts were delivered to our doorsteps every morning at 8:30 and were delicious and varied. The spacious location in Ribeira Grande made exploring the whole island easy. The setting was lovely with a pool that everyone enjoyed. The casitas were well-appointed with comfortable beds and equipped kitchen areas. There was lots of outdoor seating. There was one clogged drain that created a flood, and the staff were responsive about fixing it within 24 hours. We were a 4-minute drive from a farm to table restaurant where we enjoyed a 6-course, delicious meal. We paid for an extra service: Chef Pedro made a special dinner celebration for us in the common space that was outstanding.

Stayed in July 2025

Very beautiful, thoughtful and well designed. We loved staying here; nice facilities, great location, beautiful views, friendly staff.

Stayed in June 2025

Breakfast was served late, close to 9:30. We usually took off early so ended up having yesterday’s breakfast or use it for lunch

Our room was spacious, clean, nicely decorated. Very comfortable bed. The property is beautiful, very tranquil. Geographically located in the middle of the island, convenient to explore in all directions

Stayed in May 2025

Wow, what a special place Pico do Refugio is. First of all, the property is absolutely gorgeous. Anna welcomed our family and was full of recommendations and explained the history behind the Refugio. The location was excellent, out of the busy Ponta Delgada, but still close enough to easily explore all around Sao Miguel. The loft we stayed in was spacious, airy, and comfortable. Each morning, the breakfasts delivered was amazing and filling. Even though the houses were all full, it was very quiet and peaceful. The common area had great coffee and treats and interesting art and products from local artists. We didn't want to leave.

Stayed in April 2025

All was perfect. If I can point just one thing to improve in our apartment is that the sofa and seats in the living room are not very comfortable.

This is a nice option to move around Sao Miguel. The location is great in a quiet and peaceful area. The place was beautiful and nice refurbished. The included breakfast was nice. In this place you have all you need to organize your stay on your own (kitchen, free parking, well location, supermarket nearby, huge garden and pool, barbecue, laundry, etc) very convenient. Ana, María Joao and all the staff were very nice, accesible, and helpful. Thank you all for making our stay amazing.

Stayed in April 2025

Perhaps the insects, but they weren’t a significant issue for us. Staying in the heart of nature, it’s something to be expected. They certainly didn’t impact our trip in any way.

We had an incredible stay at Pico do Refúgio, enjoying the unique experience of being the only guests for the week in this charming former tea factory. The location, atmosphere, fireplace, and cozy interior truly made our trip special. It was such a pleasure to return after a busy day to a place that felt like home. Ana was a fantastic host, and the service was exceptional. The breakfasts were varied and delicious, and after a couple of delayed flights, we were warmly welcomed with appetizers upon arrival. We especially appreciated the privacy and peacefulness of the place, as well as the stunning surroundings, including Santa Bárbara Beach and Lagoa do Fogo. Simply amazing!

Stayed in January 2025

The hot water tank didn't hold much hot water, but with short showers this isn't an issue.

Lovely breakfast every day, the staff are so friendly. It's a really interesting property that had a nice energy.

Stayed in October 2024

Very nice room, super nice concierge Ana, perfect breakfast.

Stayed in October 2024

The grounds are incredible. The onsite restaurant was fantastic. The courtyard in general was a great place to relax.

Stayed in September 2024

Vey well kept and had amazing views.

Stayed in July 2024

Absolutely superb.

Stayed in July 2024

Gorgeous apartment and grounds! It is clear that this retreat is cared for by artist hosts; every detail is thoughtfully implemented from the interior design to the breakfast variety. We didn’t want our trip to end.

Stayed in November 2023

Pico do Refúgio is a beautiful property. We were welcomed by the fantastic Ana who remained available for us during our stay. We loved the breakfast and warm bread delivered to our little house every morning.

Stayed in September 2023

Magical and quiet place in an old cottage with great staff and amenities!

Stayed in July 2023

There were very few things that we didn't like, however others who don't enjoy simple, whimsy settings might find issues. As a fair warning, in the spring at least, there are lots of bugs that get in the loft on the hill at night (lawn shrimp, centipedes, flying ants etc.). We didn't mind as it is a part of staying in an old converted building in the country side and the cleaning staff came every morning to vaccum them up, but I could see how some guests might not enjoy the bugs. The loft on the hill can also be noisy sometimes with barking dogs, quarry blasting sirens, roosters, and the local village fireworks (although these were related to St. John the Baptist celebrations). Again, we didn't mind too much as it's part of the charm, but some might be annoyed by the lively sounds of Rabo do Peixe and surrounding areas. The loft can also be very damp depending on the rain, but again it is expected in such a building. If you want the standard hotel chain style (e.g. Comfort Inn) offerings you are better off staying in Ponta Delgada...

Incredible setting and amazing views. If you like accommodations that are full of character, a little rustic and off the beaten path, and in a stunning landscape, this is the place for you. Great base for road trips across the island. Near a grocery store and petrol station. The large property is totally relaxing and a place you can really disconnect. The property has a very storied past. The loft on the hill was well equipped and the kitchen has everything we needed to make some great meals and eat outside on the back patio or inside. The fireplace was a nice touch, and we used it a couple of times on cooler evenings. Easy check in and out process. Ana was very attentive and always happy to help and provide recommendations. Ginjah the owner's puppy was super sweet and we enjoyed her many visits during our two week stay. The cats were also friendly neighbours. The pool area was very nice although the pool is unheated (we still swam a few times). The lobby is cool and filled with art and the espresso machine was great. We enjoyed walking from the hill down to the pool many times during our stay.

Stayed in June 2023

Beautiful and authentic place with good atmosphere. Staff were lovely (Thank you Ana for all your good of advices)

Stayed in June 2023

amazing view

Stayed in June 2023

The wifi is very poor connection and not reliable or consistent in both the room and shared lounge area. Sounds like they are making progress on fixing this soon. I would have stayed longer if wifi was strong

Ana and the rest of the staff were excellent and so welcoming! The breakfast was also excellent, delivered to my doorc tasty and fresh. The property and design of the building was sensational.

Stayed in June 2023

The location, how amazingly peaceful it is, the beautiful views over the country and the extreme kindness of the staff

Stayed in June 2023

ana was wonderful and very helpful. the everything waperfect

Stayed in May 2023

We have been the only guests in April

It's a beautiful special place in a nice environment and we had a warm welcome from Ana!

Stayed in April 2023

It was humid and in April we have been the only guests.

It's a beautiful special place in a nice environment and we had a warm welcome from Ana!

Stayed in April 2023

The apartments are in a great location on the North side of the island, making it easy to get everywhere. They're located down a side street, which made the area very serene and relaxing. The loft we stayed in was very spacious and had everything we needed. We also enjoyed spending time in the shared lounge and the delicious cakes that were made fresh daily.

Stayed in May 2023