Casa David

The villages of Portella and Bangaeria were nearly completely destroyed by Fogo’s 2014 eruption.

Nearly.

Casa David is a remarkable survivor. Sited on a lookout between upper Portella and lower Bangaeria, the flow of lava wiped out Portella, parted around the Casa David building and went on to destroy the majority of Bangaeria.

However, the flow didn’t quite leave Casa David untouched. Entering on the uphill side of the building, the lava filled one room and encroached on what’s now the breakfast room – and, incredibly, just stopped. Within this room you can get a snapshot of the feeling of awe and powerlessness in the face of earth’s destructive and constructive forces.

Casa David is a charming guesthouse offering accommodation in the heart of Portella village. There’s a 2-bedroom apartment on site within the original building. Casa David has expanded recently and the new building holds several more double and twin-bed rooms. Accommodation is simple and clean and there’s a friendly feel to the place. All rooms are ensuite. As with most accommodation up at the Caldeira, showers aren’t heated – for most travellers that find their way here, this isn’t a problem as they find the cool water nice and refreshing in the Cape Verdean heat.

You can stay here on a bed and breakfast or half board basis, dining at the on site restaurant.