Perched above the Atlantic in São Miguel, Azores, Solar Branco Eco Estate is a meticulously restored 100-year-old heritage property offering an exceptional eco-luxury retreat. This sustainable estate features eight distinctive rooms across five historic buildings, surrounded by citrus-inspired gardens and sweeping ocean views.
The property houses Europe’s largest gin collection at The Gin Library and champions environmental initiatives through zero food waste policies, plastic-free operations, and support for marine conservation. Guests can experience farm-to-table dining, artisanal gin tastings, and authentic Azorean culture while enjoying modern amenities in a serene, adults-only setting just five minutes from Ponta Delgada.
Their story
Solar Branco Eco Estate was lovingly restored by owners Ali and Caroline, transforming it into a sustainable luxury retreat. Built over a century ago, this heritage home now features eight unique rooms across five buildings, including converted ruins and pig sties.
Home to Europe’s largest gin collection at The Gin Library and the island’s first speakeasy, the property perfectly balances luxury with environmental responsibility. From its citrus-inspired gardens to its support of marine conservation via the Ocean Azores Foundation, Solar Branco exemplifies sustainable hospitality while honoring local culture and history. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The property features sustainable elements including solar panels providing up to 80% of energy needs, 100% electric transport, and complete elimination of single-use plastics.
- The estate maintains wildlife ponds supporting local biodiversity. Moreover it practices zero food waste through chicken composting, and sources 80% of food locally.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- Solar Branco Eco Estate harnesses solar power to achieve up to 80% of its energy needs through renewable sources. The estate monitors energy consumption closely, partnering with guests to optimize usage and reduce environmental impact. These energy savings are donated to The Ocean Azores Foundation, supporting marine conservation projects.
- With on-site electric vehicle charging stations and 100% electric transport, the estate demonstrates a comprehensive commitment to sustainable energy practices.
Pioneer in waste management
- Food waste is eliminated by feeding scraps to free-range chickens at “Cluckingham Palace.”
- The estate enforces a complete ban on single-use plastics, ensures 100% glass recycling from their extensive gin collection, and partners with local vendors to reduce overall waste.
- Organic gardening practices include maintaining dedicated wildlife ponds and using chicken manure as natural fertilizer.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- The estate maintains chemical-free citrus gardens and grows seasonal organic produce including bananas, oranges, strawberries, figs, and heritage fruit varieties. They’ve implemented a complete ban on pesticides throughout the property, focusing instead on natural farming methods.
- Their free-range chickens help with natural pest control and fertilization. The estate sources over 80% of its food from local suppliers who follow sustainable practices.
- Their wildlife ponds support natural ecosystems. They use traditional, chemical-free techniques to maintain their gardens, encouraging pollinators and other beneficial wildlife.
- All cleaning and maintenance products used on the property are environmentally friendly and chemical-free.
Actively protects nature and community
- The estate features wildflower meadows cut strategically to protect pollinators, while employing local staff and sourcing produce from nearby vendors.
- Through their Ocean Azores Foundation, they donate €5 per room per night to marine conservation. The property demonstrates sustainable luxury with 100% glass recycling, solar energy usage, and electric transport, while preserving the cultural heritage of their historic buildings. Their commitment extends to zero food waste practices and protecting endangered bee populations, making them a leader in Azorean eco-tourism.
Most Popular Activities Near Solar Branco Eco Estate
- Daily complimentary gin tastings at Europe’s largest gin collection.
- Sustainable sushi dinners with local chef Joana using fresh-caught fish.
- Guided estate garden tours showcasing organic produce and citrus groves.
- Free-range chicken encounters at “Cluckingham Palace”.
- Wildlife observation at 4 dedicated nature ponds.
- Exclusive access to Senhor Raposa’s Secret Drinking Den.
- Private Azorean wine tastings with resident sommelier.
- Forest bathing (Shinrin Yoku) meditation sessions.
- Whale watching excursions by catamaran or zodiac.
Best Time To Visit Solar Branco Eco Estate
- The ideal time to visit Solar Branco Eco Estate is between April and October when the Azorean weather is most stable, offering comfortable temperatures ranging from 64-77°F. This period provides perfect conditions for exploring the estate’s citrus gardens, hiking the nearby trails, and enjoying outdoor activities. Mornings are clear and crisp, allowing stunning views over the green hills to the Atlantic Ocean.
- The shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October are particularly appealing, with fewer tourists and mild temperatures ideal for outdoor exploration.
- Summer evenings on the estate are perfect for sunset gin tastings at Europe’s largest gin collection.