Cantinho das Buganvilias

Cantinho das Buganvilias combines the convenience of an aparthotel with the typically-relaxed atmosphere of the best Azorean rural tourism.

Perched high on the volcanic Ponta da Queimada promontory, Cantinho das Buganvílias is a collection of purpose-built modern apartments on the south coast of Sao Jorge. Location is everything: to the west, the calm waters of Queimada bay roll gently towards the main harbour town of Velas in the distance. Inland, the green cliffs of Santo Amaro are a dramatic reminder of Sao Jorge’s volcanic origins, and across the channel, the neighbouring island of Pico looks superb in silhouette come sunset. Sao Jorge’s airport is also close by, but you won’t find this a disturbance – there are rarely more than two flights per day and it’s a fascinating opportunity to watch these small aircraft land from such close quarters.

There are nineteen apartments in total, sixteen two bedroom and three one bedroom, all en-suite with well-equipped kitchenettes. First floor apartments have balconies and ground floor apartments a terrace, leading into the gardens – which aren’t overly sculpted or tamed, retaining the rustic, volcanic-feel of this rugged headland location. There’s also a shared outdoor pool, a gym and an on-site restaurant. A hire car isn’t essential, but it does offer more flexibility as Sao Jorge is a particularly rural island, and it’s a short drive into Velas in the evenings where you’ll find many of the island’s most-popular restaurants and cafe bars.