The Book Hotel Faial

The Book Hotel Faial is the island’s newest five-star hotel, bringing contemporary style to the heart of Horta.

The Book Hotel’s moniker is apt: the building began life as the Liceu da Horta: a school on the central Largo do Bispo, which played an important role in Faial’s educational and cultural life for over a century. Following the construction of the modern high school, the building became home to the Gremio Literario Faialense – a literary society created by the island’s intellectuals, including write Florencio Terra.

A careful restoration has given the building new life as a five-star hotel – the renovations are considered, and the building retains much of its original character, particularly in its Sonnet Restaurant, where the emphasis is on local produce and Horta’s celebrated seasonal seafood.

The same care and attention to detail continues through to the guest rooms. The interior décor is of the Classic and Classic Street View rooms is calm, contemporary and nicely understated, with natural light, quality materials and thoughtful details which reflect the building’s heritage.

The larger Corner Suites are a step up in size and light, with their twin windows spanning the corners of the building. Duplex Suites offer yet more space – some have views across the rooftops of Horta, and out across the channel which separates Faial from the neighbouring island of Pico.

There’s a similar view from the rooftop terrace which has a small outdoor pool – a sauna and treatment room complete the Wellness facilities and provide a quiet retreat after a day exploring Faial.