Miramar

São Tomé


While older than its nearby flagship sister, the Pestana São Tomé, the Miramar is the better deal. Instead of entering resort-land, you get the feeling of a real hotel rooted in the city, where locals, expats and tourists all mix. A secret bonus: renovated rooms with seaviews can be had for no additional cost (just ask).

The pretty restaurant overlooking the massive pool area, and the beach across the street, close the deal. High end suites aren't worth the money, however.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby São Tomé attractions

1. Presidential Palace

0.4 MILES

It's hard to miss the huge pink presidential palace, which faces the cathedral, but unfortunately it is not open to the public. Two bored guards do a…

2. Nossa Senhora da Graça Cathedral

0.45 MILES

While fairly humble as cathedrals go, the Nossa Senhora da Graça is one of Africa's oldest, and a testimony to persistence, as it has been destroyed and…

3. CACAU

0.45 MILES

The Casa das Artes, Criação, Ambiente e Utopias (House of the Arts, Creativity, Environment and Utopias) is an ambitious attempt to create a true cultural…

4. São Sebastião & Museu Nacional

0.57 MILES

São Sebastião is a small fort that houses the national museum, a few rooms of artifacts simply presented. The eclectic, somewhat decaying collection, in…

5. Mercado Grande

0.66 MILES

Alternately fascinating and repellent, the Mercado Grande is divided into two cavernous and adjacent halls, the Mercado Municipal and the newer, and…

6. Claudio Corallo Chocolate Factory

0.96 MILES

Claudio Corallo is both an extraordinary person and a local institution. For over 40 years this native Italian has pursued an overriding passion for…

7. Roça Bela Vista

3.71 MILES

While this roça (plantation) is modest in size, its buildings are in very good condition relative to those found elsewhere, and include the large manager…

8. Ilhéu de Santana

6.76 MILES

This interesting island, which faces Santana Resort, is unique in that a natural tunnel runs straight through the centre of it. Boat trips operated by the…