Fogo Island Inn

There's something special about a place that makes you feel both energized and relaxed. The staff struck that perfect balance between being attentive and giving space when needed. The rooms were thoughtfully designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind. The breakfast options were diverse and fresh, and the evening ambiance was simply magical.

My wife and I are from Raleigh, NC. We went to Fogo for five nights, which was a perfect length of time to appreciate the Inn and the Island. We were lucky perhaps with the weather with 2 days of clouds and occasional mist, and two days of beautiful sunshine. One does not get to see whales or icebergs floating by the Inn in October. Nevertheless, we had a fantastic and utterly memorable time. Before travelling to Fogo, I read some reviews posted previously on this site. Most were very favorable, but some complained about the quality or variety of the food at this five-star resort. Now, having been there, I wonder about these negative reviews. One should not go to Fogo, or the Fogo Island Inn for the food. Don't get me wrong, I found some of the food outstanding...e.g. the cod served in any manner. I've never had such good fish...so fresh, so delicious. One dish - cod au gratin - served at their crab fest in the "shed" (a must!) was "to die for." On the other hand, I was not partial to the moose but it was worth a try. Others loved it. (Apparently moose are abundant now in Newfoundland.) And sure the menus lacked some variety. If you care so much about such things, go to New York, of Hong Kong, or even Las Vegas. There are many great places to eat in such big towns. For one, you should go to Fogo for the breathtaking scenery. You see it from your room, and from the dining room. It's all around you. And the Inn provides a guide for your chosen hike (if you want one) that might take you along the coast, to witness big waves crashing against a rocky shore, and then moving upland through multiple terrains and types of vegetation. Our last hike took us atop a small mountain - more like a very big hill of granite or igneous rock - with views of the island from all angles: the churning Atlantic, green patches interspersed between rocky bluffs and charming villages with modest, brightly colored homes sitting at the shoreline of some inlet or bay. None of the hikes are difficult, and some are easy. The staff will ensure your safety and delight. One should go to Fogo for the artwork. No, it's not SOHO, but it is all local with some gorgeous quilts, paintings, furniture, pottery, and more. My wife and I, who are lazy decorators (people may walk into our house and ask if we just moved in - we've been here 11 years) actually purchased a lovely quilt to hang on our (blank) living room wall. We don't ordinarily do such things. Why now? It's the people! We bought the quilt yes, because it's beautiful, but moreover, we felt connected to the artist in just a few days. Her name is Jan. And Jan's married to Bruce who's utterly talented as a painter. And after meeting Bruce in his gallery on day two, we were surprised to find him that evening quietly picking at his guitar, and singing local songs as a backup to our dinner at the Inn. If anything, one should go to Fogo for the people! The locals include the marvelous folks (some 200 of them) who work at the Inn. (That's nearly 10% of the entire population.) Among them, Leeann with a big heart and easy humor, prepared my fire heated sauna, and served us drinks on the roof (where earlier we sat in the hot tub) with the best views of the rocks jutting into the Atlantic. On our last day, we bumped into Leann at the local ice cream shop. We joked with her, as she held in her hands a dozen or so pints of the stuff, stocking up for a winter's supply of rocky road, or whatever, because the shop would be soon closing for the season. There was Sarah who waited tables at breakfast and always greeted us with a big smile. And of course, who can forget Emily, another waitress who also captained the events at the Shed (crab fest) and gave a fantastically verbose monologue with amazing speed and hilarity. Finally, many thanks to Travis, our first and very knowledgeable guide, whose personality was as pleasant and interesting as the hike itself. Finally, there are the other guests at the Inn. We hung out with 2 other couples and became fast friends in but a few days. It was if we knew them for years. In fact, we're still in contact and this is extraordinary. The Island, the locals, the Inn and the overall ambience perhaps has something to do with this. Four or five days there felt like a lifetime, in only a positive sense, and while it's always good to be home, I miss the place. Go to Fogo Island and stay at the Inn. It's a wonderful experience you won't forget.

Holy guacamole, what a place! I've stayed in a fair few spots in my time, but this one takes the cake. The staff are like your best mates, but ones that really have their act together. The whole shebang is like a well-oiled machine of awesomeness. I'm already figuring out when I can come back!

Crikey, I wasn't expecting this! This place is like a little slice of paradise. The people here are absolute gems, always ready with a smile and a helping hand. Everything's neat as a pin and works a treat. I'm tellin' ya, it's the duck's nuts. Don't think twice, just book it!

Located on an island off an island, Fogo island is a place of rugged natural beauty. We recommend using their shuttle or private car service the first time instead of trying to get to the Inn from Gander airport yourself. The Inn itself has a unique and modern and striking design that pays homage to island architecture and tradition both inside and out. Only 29 rooms and all rooms have an ocean view. Inside includes an art gallery, a library specializing in Newfoundland, a fitness room, sauna, 2 outdoor hot tubs, and a 37 seat cinema. The Inn strives to be sustainable. It’s owned by a charity that puts profits back into the community and province. It employs about 300. It tries to use local inputs and craftsmen from food to furniture. It does other things not well known like micro loans to local entrepreneurs and civic improvements. Guest services are highly personalized. There are posted events such as guided hikes, boat tours, cultural experiences, yoga, biking, wildlife viewing, fishing, and museums and shops. Note that guests are not restricted to just what is posted. You can ask for specific things or suggestions and they will try to arrange it. You will get the full experience if you are open and also proactively ask. They will also provide a car if you want one to look around. They will do your laundry if needed. Fine dining is the standard focusing on local seasonal ingredients. You can get any meal to your room. You can also ask for snacks or packed meals anytime (eg for a hike) or for a late night snack. They also provide a daybreak service which is coffee or tea and a daily scone or muffin to your door silently at 5:30am. You can also eat at other restaurants on the island free as they send the bill to Fogo Inn (check which ones). Unique is the exposure to local community and culture with things like architecture walks, jam making, pottery and art shops. Guests also get a local guide to give them an island overview. What’s interesting? Fogo Island Inn is just one off two places given the Michelin 3 key award. What else? Too much to write. Do research on your own too To note: A 3 night minimum. Only guests are allowed inside. Cost. Yes it’s expensive. All costs except alcohol are included and maybe some excursions such as a boat ride. Overall: A very different immersive experience that is very different but highly recommended.