Heated Saltwater Pool-Private Beachside Oasis

Escape to O Refugio, an enchanting retreat in Mosteiros, Azores, where nature's splendor meets modern comfort. Conveniently located, steps away are black sand beaches, natural sea pools, shops and eateries. Nearby attractions include iconic sights like Sete Cidades and thermal pools at Ponta da Ferraria. After a day of exploring, enjoy your private outdoor oasis with a heated saltwater pool and cabana with built-in barbecue and pizza oven. Welcome to Refugio do Sol—your gateway to paradise!

O Refugio offers a unique getaway experience in Mosteiros, a picturesque village on São Miguel Island, Azores, famed for its natural beauty and proximity to various attractions. This oceanside retreat boasts privacy and convenience, being within walking distance of natural sea pools, black sand beaches, eateries, bars, grocery stores, and options for whale, dolphin, and nature watching tours.

Perfectly located on the western tip of the island, Refugio do Sol offers guests easy access to both the north and south coasts of São Miguel with popular nearby destinations including the iconic “Monasteries” Basalt Rock Formations, Sete Cidades: Miradouro da Vista do Rei, and Miradouro da Boca do Inferno (most photographed location in all of the Azores) and the thermal pools of Ponta da Ferraria.

O Refugio is a beautifully restored antique home that seamlessly combines traditional Azorean art and architecture with modern amenities. The highlight is an outdoor oasis featuring a heated** saltwater in-ground swimming pool. The home is constructed using materials native to the island, such as volcanic basalt rock and wood from the Cryptomerium Japonica Cedar Tree, a species extensively found on São Miguel. (** please note: The pool heater is set to 28C / 82F from May through October only; for visits outside of these months, in case the guest wants the pool heated, the charge will be an additional 30 euros per day of reservation for the pool heater operation, so please notify us if you want the heater turned on prior to your arrival if traveling outside of the peak season. Please keep in mind that the actual water temperature may vary depending on weather conditions: sun, clouds, wind, air temperature, etc. Which means that the pool may not reach target temperature setting during colder weather, but will still feel warmer than having no heater at all.).

Designed to provide an unparalleled stay, equipped with a range of facilities to ensure comfort, our guests have access to on-call concierge services, a private gated driveway, hotel-quality bedding and towels, climate-controlled interiors, a well-equipped kitchen with a Nespresso Machine, original local artwork, Azorean-themed literature, telescope/binoculars, and laundry facilities. The property includes a cabana with an additional half bathroom and an outdoor shower, catering to all needs.

Ideal for entertaining, the retreat features both indoor and outdoor kitchens, equipped with a traditional Portuguese Churrascaria (BBQ), a wood-fired pizza oven, two living/family rooms with cable televisions—one including a game room—and free high-speed internet. The three bedrooms received bedding upgrades for Summer 2024, with a full-size double bed in the master bedroom and two twin-sized beds in the other rooms, comfortably accommodating up to six adults.

O Refugio invites guests to immerse themselves in the best views, location, and amenities São Miguel has to offer, ensuring a memorable experience in the heart of one of the Azores' most stunning landscapes.

UPDATE AS OF MAY 2024: solid, beautiful new standard-sized beds and new mattresses in all rooms! Two rooms have 2 twin beds each, and 1 room has a double bed (160cm x 200cm). We also added ceiling fans and air conditioning/heating to all 3 bedroom areas.

Welcome to O Refugio - Make Yourself at Home!

O Refugio is a peaceful home, ideal for guests seeking rest and close contact with nature. We kindly ask you to respect the environment and the neighbors by avoiding excessive noise, especially at night.
Please note that the house includes steps and outdoor areas, and is not wheelchair accessible.
A minimum stay of 3 nights is required.
All bedrooms are equipped with air conditioning, and we provide bed linens, towels, and basic toiletries for your comfort. The Wi-Fi connection is reliable and suitable for both remote work and leisure.
Free private parking is available on-site.
Mosteiros is a small and charming village with local restaurants and grocery stores nearby. We recommend bringing any specific items you may need during your stay, as options can be limited.

We keep things simple — just a few rules to help ensure a comfortable stay for everyone:
• No smoking inside the house. If you smoke, please do so outside.
• Garbage: please do not leave trash inside. Use the public bins nearby.
• Save energy: turn off the lights whenever you leave the house.
• Respect the neighbors: quiet hours in Portugal are from 23:00 to 7:00. You’re on holiday, but people around you are not — thank you for being considerate.
• Safety first: always lock the door when entering or leaving the house.
• No pets allowed.
• No parties or events are allowed.
• Towels: white towels are for bathroom use only. Please avoid stains and do not take them outside. Blue beach towels are available if needed.
That’s it!
If you have any questions or need anything during your stay, we’re here to help.