Casa do Contador

Casa do Contador is the archetypal Azorean city centre B&B.

This elegant townhouse was originally constructed by an orchard owner during Sao Miguel’s orange boom of the 1800s. Moving into the 20^th century, the building acted as a local kindergarten for many years, before a recent renovation returned it to it’s former 19^th century glory. The new custodians have preserved the best elements of the original building, and their carefully uncluttered décor and furnishing choices allow the urban-Azorean architecture to take centre-stage.

There are three types of room – from smallest to largest: the studios are comfortable and cosy for couples, with an ensuite bathrooms and small kitchenette. Suites are on the 1^st and 2^nd floor, they’re more spacious with a living room/diner and kitchenette. The family suite is located on the ground floor – the two-bedroom suite is ideal for a young family of four or two couples, with a well-equipped kitchen, living room/diner and mezzanine. The Contador team are warm and welcoming, and their breakfast baskets are a lovely touch in the mornings

Outside, the inventive use of the limited inner-city garden space gives you access to a communal terrace for alfresco dining and a small plunge pool. The best of the capital’s restaurants, café bars are right on your doorstep, and it’s a short walk to the Mercado da Graca farmers’ market.