Aldeia da Fonte Nature Resort

The Hotel Aldeia da Fonte comprises a collection of two-story bungalows, all constructed from the island's ubiquitous dark volcanic rock and featuring Asian-style terra-cotta tile roofs. The hotel's colorful interiors, with rustic wooden furnishings, create a genuine island-village feel, while the property sits among lush gardens brimming with palm trees, colorful flowers, and tropical plants. Cobblestone paths lined with flora and decorative ceramics lead through the verdant grounds to cliff-top trails and down to the rugged coast and a natural swimming pool formed from sea and rocks. One of only a handful of hotels on the island, this family-run, eco-sustainable lodging focuses on maintaining a balance with the surrounding natural environment. The vibe is friendly and relaxed, attracting a mix of casual young travelers and nature buffs hoping to catch sight of a passing whale. Rocky and steep paths, however, which are often slippery from the Atlantic spray, mean it's not recommended for young children or travelers with limited mobility.

The resort is set within lush gardens overlooking a line of cliffs that run along the south coast of Pico Island -- the second largest of the Portuguese Azores. While the whales that pass close to this island when migrating are the main attraction, its also known for its immense dormant volcano that lies close to the center of the island, along with its tropical landscapes and rugged coastline. The nearest villages -- and basic local facilities -- are Sao Joao to the west and Lajes in east, both a five- to 10-minute drive away, while Pico Airport is about 45 minutes away by car.

The accommodation varies between regular guest rooms, studio-style apartments, and units with separate bedroom and living areas. Decor is colorful with an island vibe and with simple wooden furnishings -- with beds on the firm side. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, safes, minibars, and flat-screen TVs (with limited channels), while bathrooms have wall-mounted hairdryers and soap/shampoo dispensers. Suites include tea- and coffee-making facilities and lounges with fireplaces, and a few come with kitchenettes. A few of of the lower-floor rooms can feel damp, especially during wetter months. Some apartments offer sea views, and all come with binoculars for spotting the passing whales. 

The hotel's restaurant serves a small buffet breakfast at no additional charge, as well as a menu of Azorean cooking and a weekly Chinese buffet. In addition to the main dining area, there's also a pleasant terrace overlooking the gardens, plus a cozy lounge with a fireplace and upright piano. There's also an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by wooden decking overlooking the sea, as well as a natural rock pool for bathing within the grounds, and direct access to the ocean. Wellness facilities include a fitness rooms and a sauna, and there's also a whale-watching station and a shop selling local handicrafts and souvenirs. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.