We stayed at the Mercure Hotel in Ponta Delgada and had a very mixed experience. On the positive side, the beds were extremely comfortable, the location is superb, and the pool area is very nice. The spa also looked lovely, although we didn’t have time to try it. The rooms are spacious enough, clean, and equipped with the basics. Breakfast had a good variety of options, and the reception staff stood out — Bianca, who checked us in, was extremely friendly and helpful, and Ciara, who assisted with our checkout, was very pleasant and professional. Both made us feel welcome and added warmth to our stay.
Unfortunately, there were also many downsides. The parking situation is terrible: the lot is very small, most spaces are reserved, and the hotel does not provide any alternatives, instead directing guests to paid public parking. When we raised this issue with the manager, we were met with a dismissive and condescending attitude, which left us feeling disrespected and undervalued as paying guests. Service in general lacked warmth — staff rarely greeted us during the day, and interactions with the manager felt unprofessional. Breakfast, while decent in terms of food, was far from relaxing. Staff pushed large trolleys noisily around the restaurant, bumping into chairs, throwing cutlery into drawers, and even using their phones while working. This not only disrupted the meal but could also be heard from the first-floor rooms in the morning. Housekeeping was inconsistent, with our room left uncleaned until after 3 p.m. on two occasions. Even when the room was serviced, the cleaning felt incomplete — for example, one day after cleaning, no shower mat was provided. Amenities were also disappointing for a 4-star hotel: the bathroom had only a single 2-in-1 shower gel and shampoo, which is more in line with hostel standards. The restaurant options for lunch and dinner were very limited, the dishes bland and undersalted, and the overall quality far below what we expected for the price. The in-room technology also needs attention. The smart TV didn’t allow us to check our bill, and it would be a real improvement if the TVs offered apps like Netflix so guests could log in with their own accounts. Overall, while São Miguel is an incredible destination, this hotel did not meet the standard we expect from a 4-star property. The facilities and location are good, but the service, amenities, and overall professionalism were lacking. For the price we paid, it did not feel worth it. Our recommendation would be for the management and staff to undergo comprehensive training to deliver the level of service expected from an international...
Read moreWhat an amazing stay! When we booked the hotel, it had zero reviews and was, in fact, under construction. But we trusted the reputation of Accor - and they lived up to the brand.
The facilities and amenities: new and of very high quality. I will specifically mention an incredible sound insulation in the rooms (walls and doors - notice the doors are heavy and have a rubber seal around!). Very comfy bed & mattress. Good shower and efficient bathroom ventilation. Haven't tried the outdoor pools, but the indoor pool had warm salt-rich water + a very good sauna and a steam room with aroma oils.
Breakfast: a Like! Some food rotates, but the bulk of it remains the same every day. That said, everything is local, fresh and of high quality. I could it that fresh cheese till the end of my days!
Location: best location you can imagine. You are in the middle of everything! The historic part of the city, steps away from the port, the restaurants and the cafes. Oh, should I mention that there's a police office across the street so safety will never be a concern?
Staff: very friendly and helpful. Everyone speaks great English and does their job very well. Hope to visit this place again and see all...
Read moreFantastic, recently opened hotel. All the staff we very friendly and front of house were full of knowledge on the beautiful island they call home. Our room was a great size for family of 4 with everything we needed.
The location is perfect. 10 minutes from the airport (€10 in a taxi) and perfect for walking around Ponta Delgada. It does have a small car park onsite, but we found it was always full by the time we returned late in the day. This was not a problem though, as there is a public carpark on the same road and it is safe and reasonable in cost.
Breakfast was delicious. Such a great selection of food and drinks and staff were constantly replenishing items as they were going. We ate at the restaurant one night and the food (although a small menu) was delicious.
The outside pool area is great to relax after a busy day exploring the island. They do have an indoor pool at the spa (swim cap must be used), although we did not use this facility.
We would 100%...
Read more