As the name implies this 80 room hotel complex is a "resort" in its own right. It is situated a short walk from the simple village of Agua de Pau at the end of a narrow road terminating at the hotel and a small but attractive beach with dark sand. The facilities provided by the hotel include swimming pool with sun deck and snack bar and gardens overlooking the sea, a tennis court, a sauna and small gymnasium.

The restaurant is on the first floor and has a magnificent view almost 270 degrees wide encompassing the beach, the cliffs and the sea. The lounge bar on the top (second) floor has a similar outlook and has an open fireplace.

The fully equipped Caloura Diving Centre offers beginners courses, refresher courses, PADI courses and Diving for Certified Divers in one of the best locations in the Azores just off-shore from the Hotel. Training takes place in the 3.5m deep swimming pool - designed for the purpose. A RIB is available for sea safaris and bird watching expeditions.

All bedrooms are of a very generous size, are air-conditioned and are pleasantly furnished in pine and (with the exception of six rooms with shower and no balcony) each has a fully equipped bathroom and balcony overlooking the pool or the sea.

Our opinion
This delightful complex is an oasis of peace and tranquillity where only the noise of the sea and the calls of sea birds break the silence. It is ideal for walkers, for those who fish from the rocky shore, and for those seeking a serious "get-awayfrom- it-all" holiday. The owners have spent many years in Canada, are extremely hospitable, speak perfect English and are intimately concerned with the day to day running of the establishment. The Diving Centre is very professional. Very highly recommended.