São Nicolau
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£949pp(from/pp) SAVE £300pp (based on 2 sharing)
Located in the heart of Ribeira Brava in the centre of the island, Pensão Bela Sombra is a strikingly bright property, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.
You can explore São Nicolau from your doorstep, heading deep into the valley within a 15-minute walk.
A strikingly bright property that perfectly encapsulates the vibrancy of Cape Verde, Pensão Bela Sombra sits in the heart of Ribeira Brava, right in the centre of the island of São Nicolau. Such is the convenience of Bela Sombra’s location, guests will find themselves on the doorstep of both the island’s intriguing capital and the stunning mountainous landscapes that make São Nicolau so breathtakingly beautiful.
The property itself can be found along one of the town’s narrow winding streets, standing out due to its bright pink and purple façade. The vibrant colours provide a theme throughout the hotel, with the 20 simple but well-presented guest rooms offering a comfortable base for your stay. Views from the top floor balcony are superb, presenting the lush green mountains and the promise of adventure!
The mountains will present a mainstay of your time at Bela Sombre, and with some great walking routes and guided walking tours on offer, you’ll find that Bela Sombra is ideal for getting out to explore the island. In the evenings, guests will be drawn to the superb Cape Verdean cuisine on offer when eating out in the small town.
Your international flights are direct to Sal, then internal flights to/from São Nicolau.
São Nicolau is best experienced as part of a multi-centre island hopping holiday around the archipelago with a stay of two or three nights. We can tailor-make an itinerary that includes a stay on São Nicolau . Visit our Island Hopping Holiday Ideas, or call one of our experts about a tailor-made itinerary.
Official local hotel rating: 3 star
Our Expert Opinion
- Paul Kenny, Commercial Manager
Internal flights are provided by Bestfly. 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 and São Nicolau is via Santiago and approximately 85 minutes' flying time.
Standard Room with Balcony
From £949pp
Sleeps up to 3 (2 adults)
These rooms have double or twin beds with a balcony.
São Nicolau is an island that is in its infancy as far as tourism is concerned, this is a stunning and unspoilt island with spectacular scenery. The tranquil atmosphere draws holiday-makers, providing a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Enjoy a slow-paced holiday within nature, verdant hills and soak up the island's capital - Ribeira Brava - a colourful colonial town.
São Nicolau is best visited as part of an island hopping holiday and is easily reached via a short internal flight.
This incredible landscape is well worth a visit and can be best enjoyed by through a walking experience, or you can even visit the valley by vehicle. During the tour, you will also visit a stop at Carbeirinho, an area of spectacular rock formations that are sure to wow those who visit.
Walking in this natural park that surrounds the highest point - Monte Gordo - will be a highlight for any trekking enthusiast. The peak is 1,312m and is home to many endemic plants. Enjoy the many trails to explore and stunning views.
Many tourists head here in search of the island's most famous tree, an impressive cluster of ancient dragon trees, a natural inhabitant that is recognised as the main symbol of the island.