Colonial Guest House

São Filipe is well-known for its distinctive Portuguese-era architecture, and the handsome Colonial Guesthouse is one of the finest examples of a sobrado house anywhere in town. The beautiful building dates from 1883 but has recently been painstakingly restored to its former glory, while at the same time offering a high degree of comfort and ‘mod-cons’.

Each of the nine rooms is different, but all are tastefully furnished and have satellite TV and a private bathroom (note that, although all are private, not all bathrooms are en-suite due to architectural constraints).

Colonial House’s location halfway down São Filipe’s slope gives stunning views to the ocean, including glimpses – when the weather is clear – of neighbouring Brava island. The Fogo Lounge restaurant is an ideal venue for al fresco meals or a glass of Fogo’s famous wine on its pleasant terrace area. Breakfast service makes full use of the island’s produce and might include fresh fruit, freshly baked bread, eggs, meat, local goats’ cheese, and Fogo’s own coffee.

Colonial House has the benefit of an interior courtyard with a small swimming pool, a blessing in the summer heat. A second courtyard is planted with a variety of vegetation, making it a good venue for relaxation or reading a book beneath the shade. The use of a six-person jacuzzi on the spacious terrace area, as well as massage services (at extra cost) are also available.