The explorer and genius navigator Ferdinand Magellan once mused prior to making his most famous voyage 'The Church says that the Earth is flat, but I know that it is round. For I have seen the shadow of the earth on the moon and I have more faith in the Shadow than in the Church.
This boldness and tendency to try things up and try new things can be found all over Portugal and of course on the island of Santa Maria. Even Santa Maria hotels are indicative of these sorts of cultural influences and of course, they are framed by the preponderance of nature that dots even inch of the island. One of the biggest draws to the island is, of course, its beaches.
On The Cheap in Santa Maria
Even an island with the history and pedigree of Santa Maria offers travelers on a budget some very comfortable places to stay. One of the many relatively cheap hotels on the island is the Pousada de Juventude de Santa Maria. Even with its slightly honorific title this hotel provides the basics at a respectable rate making this one of the best places to start for travelers looking to enjoy and absorb the beauty of the island. This hotel is located right near the harbor and has very real youth hostel feel. Another one of the cheap hotels on the island is the Pensao Francisca a place that is very much like a home and a bed and breakfast.
A Santa Maria Kind of Luxury
For those of us who want a more affluent stay while on the island there are several luxury hotels in Santa Maria. There are many options available and among them is the Casa de Almagreira. This place offers you all the comforts of home as well as luxury amenities and a view of the most picturesque view of the Santa Maria landscapes. This hotel offers guests suites with kitchenette, free Wi-Fi, and other services. Additionally, the place is very close to the Praia Formosa the center of the island. Another one of the luxury hotels in Santa Maria is the Pocinho Bay. This hotel is luxuriant and straightforward and the same time featuring things like a minibar, a pool, free Wi-Fi and activities for children, if you happen to be journeying with your family.
Ocean View Boutique
Even with the preponderance of relaxing beaches and landmarks there are several boutique Santa Maria hotels and amongst them is the famed Hotel Colombo. This place was built to highlight the best things that the island has to offer and to present them in a sort of showcased fashion. This hotel sits on a low-rise giving you a priceless view of the surrounding landscape and is only about a 9-minute walk from the popular Regional Natural Monument of Pedreira do Campo. This place offers travelers the chance to enjoy cable TV Wi-Fi (fee), and minibars. In the upgraded rooms you will find things like whirlpool tubs and balconies with ocean views.