This is a very modern and clean hotel in a charming old town. The rooms were very economical. Parking is free, right outside the door. The location is by the marina and in easy walking distance to shops, restaurants, and the zoo. There are beaches by the marina, but the waves were too strong for swimming. The breakfast was great, one of the few places that had bacon and eggs. Povoacao is close to Furnas but quite a drive to Ponta Delgada.

Our first impression was that we were the only guests in the hotel for a long time. Reception, bar and restaurant are quite spacious but empty: no plants/art/anything cosy decor, that makes you normally feel comfortable without even noticing what makes it happen.

Rooms are ok, but nothing else. See view and balconys, but you don't want to spend time out there on cheap chairs and dirty balcony floor watching the small harbour in front of you. It seems that after hotel has been build, there has not been made any redecoration and it clearly needs it. This hotel rates itself to 4-star hotel and keeps the prices according to that. It also seemed to be the only one in Povoacao.

I recommend to find out a good B&B near town or take the hotel from Nordeste or Furnas.

This fairly new hotel is located on the ocean shore, with lovely views over the ocean from most rooms. Parking right in front of the hotel, and a small swimming pool and jacuzzi in the back. I found this a friendly, relaxed and comfortable hotel and I liked the playful design and especially the ceramic fountain in the lobby. Breakfast was fine and in the evening a charming bartender mixes your favourite drinks.
From the hotel door, you walk straight into Povoacao, a small, sleepy town with a small collection of restaurants and a public garden with caged birds. It is a good starting point for exploring the east part of the island.