Graciosa Windmills - A white and blue windmill sitting on top of a lush green field
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Graciosa Windmills

4.7
·55 reviews·Praia, Portugal

Stay in beautifully renovated windmills offering unique charm, stunning ocean sunrises, and warm Azorean hospitality.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Summer mornings

Spectacular sunrises & bird songs

CrowdLow
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Graciosa Windmills - A white and blue windmill sitting on top of a lush green field

Graciosa Windmills

Best Time

Spring & Summer mornings

Spectacular sunrises & bird songs

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Stay in beautifully renovated windmills offering unique charm, stunning ocean sunrises, and warm Azorean hospitality.

4.7
(55 reviews)

"The apartments are located in the renovated windmill in Praia São Mateus - a little village on the East side of Graciosa Island."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Wake Up for Sunrise

Don't miss the incredible sunrises from your windmill accommodation. It's a daily spectacle!

🍰 Taste Local Sweets

Try the addictive 'Queijadas da Graciosa' from the factory next door. You'll want more!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunrise Over the Atlantic

Sunrise Over the Atlantic

Praia São Mateus

Witness the sky ignite with color as the sun rises over the vast Atlantic Ocean, a truly magical start to your day.

Unique Windmill Stays

Unique Windmill Stays

Praia São Mateus

Experience unparalleled charm by staying in a beautifully renovated windmill apartment, blending history with modern comfort.

Queijadas da Graciosa Factory

Queijadas da Graciosa Factory

Adjacent to windmills

Indulge in the irresistible local sweet delicacy, 'Queijadas da Graciosa,' made fresh at the nearby factory.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Island Pace

Graciosa Island operates on a relaxed schedule. Embrace the slower pace, especially when planning ferry connections or local transport. Book accommodations and any desired tours in advance, as options can be limited.

Sunrise Serenity

The windmills are renowned for their spectacular sunrise views over the ocean. Plan your mornings to witness this breathtaking natural spectacle, a truly unforgettable experience on Graciosa Island.

Best Times

When
Spring & Summer mornings
Why
Spectacular sunrises & bird songs
Crowd
Low
When
Anytime
Why
Peaceful island escape
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Windmill windmill… #aesthetic #nature #netherlands #adventure #bikepacking #windmill
@cody_explores
9.6K likes • 161.6K views

🌅 Wake Up for Sunrise

Don't miss the incredible sunrises from your windmill accommodation. It's a daily spectacle! Reddit

🍰 Taste Local Sweets

Try the addictive 'Queijadas da Graciosa' from the factory next door. You'll want more! Reddit

🌊 Beachfront Bliss

Enjoy the proximity to a magnificent sandy beach, perfect for relaxing after exploring. Reddit

🏡 Welcoming Hosts

Expect warm hospitality, often with local wine and sweets as a welcome gift. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Wake Up for Sunrise

Don't miss the incredible sunrises from your windmill accommodation. It's a daily spectacle! Reddit

🍰 Taste Local Sweets

Try the addictive 'Queijadas da Graciosa' from the factory next door. You'll want more! Reddit

🌊 Beachfront Bliss

Enjoy the proximity to a magnificent sandy beach, perfect for relaxing after exploring. Reddit

🏡 Welcoming Hosts

Expect warm hospitality, often with local wine and sweets as a welcome gift. Reddit

🚗 Island Exploration Base

The windmills are a great starting point to discover the entire island of Graciosa. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(55 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the unique and passionate renovation of the windmills into charming accommodations, highlighting the spectacular ocean sunrises and the exceptional hospitality of the hosts, often including welcome gifts of local wine and sweets. The location is praised for its proximity to a beautiful beach and local amenities, making it an ideal base for exploring Graciosa Island.

"If you are looking for a unique place to stay, located just by the ocean, clean and designed with passion that will be the perfect spot for you.
The apartments are located in the renovated windmill in Praia São Mateus - a little village on the East side of Graciosa Island. Yes, you will be able to enjoy spectacular sunrises every day✨
The host is a very nice and helpful person. I felt very welcomed there from the very beginning. There was even a welcome gift waiting in the apartment - local wine and sweets.
Each apartment has a living room, bedroom, bathroom and little kitchen equipped well enough to prepare your own meals. The biggest apartment is a true masterpiece - along with the lower floor, which is similar for all apartments, it has another living area on the first floor and bedroom under the round dome on the second floor.

Nearby there is a restaurant, ferry port and two cafes. The nearest supermarket is just by the corner. Behind the windmill there is a factory of typical sweet from the island- Queijadas da Graciosa. Be careful - it can be addicting😉

Have I mentioned yet that nature on Graciosa is stunning? Hope you like sound of cagarros because they will be your neighbours singing lullaby almost each spring and summer night😉"

Agnieszka B-dt

"Hello, Our experience at Moinho de Pedra was very enjoyable. The location was great, near the beach and restaurants. The Moinho itself was very clean and the architecture was amazing. Joao was a great host. He came to greet us with complementary wine and queijadas. I would strongly recommend Moinho de Pedra. It is my favorite place to stay in Graciosa."

Monica Marques

"The windmill is a wonderful place for staying at Graciosa. It´s also a nice place from where you can discover the whole island. Joao is a very kind host, he also left us a bottle of wine and a special cake from Graciosa. The apartement is very nice and clean. We can absolutely recommend the Moinho de Pedra."

Thomas Behrendt

What People Like

Unique windmill stays
Spectacular sunrises
Warm hospitality

What People Dislike

Limited public transport

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access Graciosa Island primarily by ferry from other Azorean islands like São Miguel or Terceira, or by plane to Graciosa Airport (GRW). From the airport or ferry terminal, local taxis or pre-arranged transport can take you to the windmills in Praia São Mateus. Reddit

Renting a car or scooter is highly recommended for exploring Graciosa at your own pace. While taxis are available, they can be less frequent. The windmills are located in a small village, making them walkable to local amenities. Reddit

The ferry port is close to Praia São Mateus. A short taxi ride or a pleasant walk will bring you to the windmills. If you're arriving by plane, a taxi is the most convenient option. Reddit

Public transport on Graciosa is limited. While there might be local buses, they may not run frequently or directly to the windmills. Renting a vehicle is the most reliable way to ensure easy access. Reddit

Yes, cycling is a great way to see Graciosa. The island is relatively flat in many areas, and the windmills are accessible by bike, offering scenic routes. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The windmills themselves are primarily accommodations. If you are staying in one of the renovated windmill apartments, entry is included with your booking. Visiting the exterior and the surrounding area is free. Reddit

The factory is typically open during regular business hours, but it's advisable to check locally for specific times, especially outside peak tourist season. Reddit

No, there is no entrance fee to see the exterior of the Graciosa Windmills. They are part of the landscape and the village. Reddit

Only the apartments that have been converted into accommodations are accessible from the inside. These require a booking. Reddit

While official guided tours might be limited, your accommodation host can often provide insights into the history and renovation of the windmills. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Enjoy the nearby sandy beach, explore the charming village of Praia São Mateus, visit the Queijadas da Graciosa factory, and use the windmills as a base for island adventures. Reddit

Absolutely! The unique architecture, coastal setting, and stunning sunrises make the Graciosa Windmills incredibly photogenic. TikTok

Expect beautiful coastal scenery, the sound of the ocean, and the calls of local birds like 'cagarros' during spring and summer nights. Reddit

Yes, Praia São Mateus is a small, peaceful village. Walking around the windmills and along the beach is generally very safe. Reddit

The village offers restaurants, cafes, a ferry port, and a supermarket within easy reach of the windmills. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are restaurants and cafes located near the windmills in Praia São Mateus. The local supermarket is also conveniently close for self-catering. Reddit

Don't miss the 'Queijadas da Graciosa,' a delicious local sweet. Fresh seafood is also a must-try on the island. Reddit

Yes, the renovated windmill apartments are equipped with small kitchens, allowing you to prepare your own meals. Reddit

While traditional Azorean cuisine often features meat and fish, many restaurants are becoming more accommodating. It's best to inquire directly with the eateries. Reddit

Dining on Graciosa is generally more affordable than on larger islands. Local eateries offer good value for money. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Sunrise offers magical light for stunning photos. Golden hour in the late afternoon also provides beautiful, soft lighting. TikTok

Their unique architectural design, coastal setting, and the vibrant colors of the sunrise and sunset create a picturesque scene. TikTok

Experiment with shots from the beach, the village paths, and from within your accommodation for unique perspectives. Capturing the windmills against the ocean is key. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full scope of the windmills and the landscape. A tripod can be useful for sunrise shots. TikTok

Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Graciosa Windmills offer a unique and engaging experience for families. The novelty of staying in a windmill is sure to capture children's imaginations. The nearby sandy beach provides a safe and fun environment for kids to play and swim. Reddit

Parents will appreciate the self-catering facilities in the apartments, making it easier to manage meals for younger children. The proximity to local amenities like a supermarket and cafes is also a plus. Exploring the island can be an educational adventure, with opportunities to learn about local nature and history. Consider renting a car for easier family excursions around Graciosa. Reddit

💖 Couples Retreat

For couples seeking a romantic and unique getaway, the Graciosa Windmills are an exceptional choice. The intimate setting of a renovated windmill, combined with stunning ocean views and spectacular sunrises, creates a truly magical atmosphere. Reddit

Enjoy leisurely strolls along the beach, savor local delicacies at nearby restaurants, and relax in the comfort of your charming accommodation. The peaceful ambiance of Graciosa Island, coupled with the personalized hospitality, makes it an ideal destination for couples looking to reconnect and create lasting memories. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Solo travelers will find the Graciosa Windmills to be a safe, welcoming, and inspiring place to stay. The peaceful environment of Praia São Mateus allows for quiet contemplation and relaxation. Reddit

The opportunity to interact with friendly hosts and experience local culture adds to the appeal. The windmills provide a comfortable and unique base from which to explore the island at your own pace, whether that's hiking, photography, or simply enjoying the natural beauty. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Renovated Windmills

The Graciosa Windmills offer a truly unique accommodation experience. These historical structures have been thoughtfully renovated into charming apartments, blending rustic appeal with modern comforts. Each unit provides a cozy living space, bedroom, bathroom, and a small kitchen, perfect for self-catering. The design is often described as a 'masterpiece,' with some apartments featuring multiple levels and unique architectural elements under the dome. Staying here means waking up to spectacular ocean views and the gentle sounds of island life. Reddit

Guests consistently praise the passion and care put into the design and maintenance of these windmill homes. The hosts are known for their exceptional hospitality, often welcoming visitors with local wine and traditional sweets like 'Queijadas da Graciosa.' This personal touch enhances the feeling of being a cherished guest rather than just a tourist. The location in Praia São Mateus is also a significant draw, offering easy access to the beach, local eateries, and essential amenities. Reddit

For those seeking an authentic and memorable stay, the Graciosa Windmills are an unparalleled choice. They provide not just a place to sleep, but an immersive experience that connects you with the island's heritage and natural beauty. The combination of unique architecture, warm hospitality, and stunning surroundings makes it a standout destination. Reddit

Exploring Graciosa Island from Praia São Mateus

The windmills in Praia São Mateus serve as an ideal base for exploring the entirety of Graciosa Island. This small but diverse island offers a wealth of natural beauty and cultural sites. From your windmill accommodation, you can easily venture out to discover volcanic craters, thermal springs, and picturesque coastal paths. Renting a car or scooter is highly recommended to make the most of your island exploration, allowing you to reach various points of interest at your own pace. Reddit

Beyond the immediate vicinity of the windmills, Graciosa boasts attractions like the Furna do Enxofre (Sulphur Cavern), a significant volcanic feature, and the thermal baths of Termas da Recreio. The island's capital, Santa Cruz da Graciosa, offers a glimpse into local life with its charming streets and historical buildings. The coastal roads provide breathtaking views, and numerous small villages invite you to stop and experience authentic Azorean culture. Reddit

Whether you're interested in hiking, geological wonders, or simply enjoying the serene island landscape, Graciosa has something to offer. The windmills provide a comfortable and unique retreat after a day of discovery, ensuring your stay is both adventurous and relaxing. Reddit

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