Santiago
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£1509pp(from/pp) SAVE £220pp (based on 2 sharing)
A wonderful new addition to our collection and the only 5* hotel on the island of Santiago.
Our Expert’s Opinion
- Suzanne Brown - Senior Commercial Executive
The refreshing infinity pool with its breathtaking views of the ocean beyond.
The delicious breakfasts, so much choice and tasty offerings to set you up for the day ahead.
The hotel has recently opened with lovely modern and fresh decor, the only 5 grade property on the island of Santiago.
This fantastic hotel offers guests the chance to experience the vibrant capital of Cape Verde, Praia, while enjoying exceptional ocean views. The Barcelo features spacious rooms, a contemporary design, and a bright, airy atmosphere - creating the perfect setting for a relaxing stay.
Designed for ultimate relaxation, The Barceló boasts modern facilities to ensure a comfortable stay. Take a refreshing dip in the stunning infinity pool with panoramic views, soak up the sun in the solarium, or maintain your fitness routine in the well-equipped gym.
Enjoy a variety of delicious dishes at the Jasmin Buffet, or sip a refreshing cocktail at the Breeze Gastro Bar, where you can also sample cuisine with a local twist.
For those eager to explore beyond the hotel, Praia’s bustling markets and the historic former capital, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer a fascinating glimpse into Cape Verde’s rich culture and history.
Official local hotel rating: 5 star
Internal flights are provided by Cabo Verde Airlines. It should be noted that internal flights can and do change schedules and flights are sometimes cancelled, delayed or even early!
Travelling time between Sal to Santiago is approximately 45 minutes' flying time.
Deluxe Room
From £1,509pp
Sleeps up to 2
Measuring 30m², these rooms feature a king-size bed. The fully fitted bathroom features a shower, amenities and a hairdryer. The room also comes with air-conditioning, smart television, safe, tea/coffee-making facilities, telephone, bathrobe, slippers, Wi-Fi, minibar (payable locally). A balcony or terrace, with views of the city.
Deluxe Ocean View Room
From £1,586pp
Measuring 30m², these rooms feature a king-size bed. The fully fitted bathroom features a shower, amenities and a hairdryer. The room also comes with air-conditioning, smart television, safe, tea/coffee-making facilities, telephone, bathrobe, slippers, Wi-Fi, minibar (payable locally). A balcony or terrace, with views of the sea.
The largest island in the archipelago and the first to be populated, Santiago is rich in history and culture. The various mountainous peaks of the island reflect its volcanic origin.
With a unique blend of diverse landscapes, volcanic rocks, green valleys, barren regions and beautiful beaches Santiago is aesthetically pleasing. Hiking is popular here as this is one of the few islands with a refreshing hinterland which can be very rewarding. Ornithologists will be in their element as most of the species endemic to Cape Verde can be spotted here.
Praia is the capital of Santiago, a traditional bustling African town and the trading hub for agricultural products. Live music plays a huge role in the city's culture and can be heard playing in bars and restaurants and is hugely popular amongst the locals and tourists. No visit to Santiago would be complete without a trip to the old capital of Cidade Velha and Forte Real de Sao Filipe, the main slave trading point between Europe, Africa and America.
The following are just a couple of festivals that take place on Santiago:
Gamboa Festival - 17/18/19 May - Held in the bay of San Fransisco and arguably the biggest music festival in Cape Verde. Musicians from other countries come to Santiago to participate.
Tabanka - June/July - A celebration of the liberation of slaves which takes place in Assomada.
The Islands provide some spectacular scenery and there are walks to suit all levels of fitness and experience.
Some of the walks in the islands provide challenges which require previous hill walking experience, a higher-than-average level of fitness and proper walking footwear. For some walks guides are a necessity and can be arranged and paid for locally where as others are well signposted and there is no need for a guide.
The interior of Santiago provides many beautiful walks that start at a point in the centre of the island and follow a Ribeira down to the coast.
We highly recommend taking part in a full day tour of Santiago. Visit Praia - the island's capital, local markets, old settlements and Cidade Velha, the old capital.