Last week, UNESCO added six historic roças (colonial agricultural plantations) to its World Heritage List. The Principe Collection (principecollection.com) is proud to announce that two of these six sites are part of its small portfolio of hotels across São Tomé and Príncipe, meaning that visitors to Africa’s second smallest nation will be able to stay in one of these newly crowned properties, Belo Monte or Roça Sundy.
This prestigious UNESCO recognition marks the first time that São Tomé and Príncipe has joined the World Heritage List and celebrates the exceptional cultural significance of the historic plantation system, acknowledging its unique architecture, landscape and role in shaping the social, economic and cultural history of the archipelago. For HBD and Príncipe Collection, it represents both an honour and a responsibility. Through the careful restoration and stewardship of these remarkable estates, they remain committed to preserving the island’s heritage while offering guests the opportunity to experience an authentic sense of place.
“The UNESCO inscription is a recognition not only of remarkable buildings, but of the stories, communities and landscapes that define São Tomé and Príncipe. At Príncipe Collection, we see ourselves as custodians of two extraordinary places. Our role is to preserve their authenticity, respect their complexity and ensure they continue to inspire future generations while contributing meaningfully to the island and its people,” said Egbert Bloemsma, Chief Executive Officer of HBD Príncipe.
The islands are no strangers to UNESCO acknowledgement – in 2012, Principe was designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve to protect its unique tropical rainforests, high concentration of endemic species, and surrounding marine ecosystems, while promoting sustainable development and local community engagement. In 2025, Principe was joined by São Tomé Island, making it the first entire country designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
At present, the newly designated Belo Monte is the only property open to guests as Roça Sundy is currently undergoing an extensive restoration ahead of its reopening, ensuring that this extraordinary UNESCO-recognised property is preserved for future generations. Belo Monte re-opened this month after an extensive refurbishment.
Set amid lush rainforest on a hillside leading directly down to the ocean, Belo Monte looks out over rainforest to the Gulf of Guinea below and is only a short walk from four pristine stretches of golden sand. Its collection of buildings is interspersed with large courtyards and lawns, an outdoor swimming pool, and a number of terraces and lounges, plus a bar, restaurant, and library. The décor throughout is elegant and grand, and the refurbishment blends tastefully with its high ceilings, chandeliers, and candelabras. There are currently 15 rooms, with three more to be added later in the year, bringing the total to 18. Guests will be able to choose from panoramic sea view, lush garden-view rooms and characterful accommodations in the main house, as well as panoramic and plunge pool suites.
For more information visit www.principecollection.com
