HOVIMA Santa Maria

Stayed in a one bed apartment on 4th floor , quite big apartment for 3 adults twin room and sofa bed, kitchenette and tv the only thing is no air conditioning, we had a floor fan in the living room , we asked for one for bedroom but was no use as lead not long enough, we had to sleep all night with balcony door open as got really hot , all the staff are fab all very happy and welcoming, we stayed half board plus ( this means unlimited drinks at dinner , serve yourself beer, wine, soft drinks ) which is a bonus , there is a slight hill up to the hotel, also children's entertainment , always plenty of sunbeds , this is our 3rd visit and would come back

Had an amazing week at Hovima Santa Maria with my family and friends. We initially booked half board and upgraded to all inclusive on arrival which was great! Drinks and food loads of choice and included the Flynn and flannagan bar at night aswell. The all inclusive snacks between the main meals were only from 3-5 but the drinks were all day. Could have had some more snacks for the all inclusive guests who missed breakfast but what was available suited us. We booked a promo / economy room situated -1 floor which we absolutely loved, ideal location for the pool and saved having to climb loads of stairs or waiting for lifts. The teeny tiny problem was there was a constant bang bang bang we could hear all day on the room, we were room 1021, it seemed to stop at night so it never bothered us but might annoy guests who like a sleep throughout the day. The staff kept the rooms clean and tidy and even tho there was no view the terrace was big and got the sun the whole day. I would definitely book the promo rooms again. The hotel is situated in a perfect location, across from taxi rank aswell which was handy. Overall we had an amazing time and can't wait to come back

Santa Maria is an old accommodation. Hovima operates a substantial portion, while the rest is privately owned. The necessary modernization/renovation has been a topic of discussion with the private owners for years. Fortunately, Hovima is able to acquire a number of rooms every year, so things will eventually work out.

The shower drain doesn't drain properly, the Wi-Fi isn't consistent, many floor tiles are cracked, kitchen cabinets are a bit crooked, etc., etc. But all of that also has authentic charm. We have been coming here for many years and feel welcome. The staff (reception, dining room, technical service, really everyone) is fantastic.

For us: we prefer the old Santa Maria with its charm to a modern, flashy place without a soul.