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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Spectacular sunrises & bird songs
Graciosa Windmills
Best Time
Spectacular sunrises & bird songs

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Stay in beautifully renovated windmills offering unique charm, stunning ocean sunrises, and warm Azorean hospitality.
"The apartments are located in the renovated windmill in Praia São Mateus - a little village on the East side of Graciosa Island."
🌅 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!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Queijadas da Graciosa Factory
Adjacent to windmills
Indulge in the irresistible local sweet delicacy, 'Queijadas da Graciosa,' made fresh at the nearby factory.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Island Pace
Sunrise Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 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!
🌊 Beachfront Bliss
Enjoy the proximity to a magnificent sandy beach, perfect for relaxing after exploring.
🏡 Welcoming Hosts
Expect warm hospitality, often with local wine and sweets as a welcome gift.
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!
🍰 Taste Local Sweets
Try the addictive 'Queijadas da Graciosa' from the factory next door. You'll want more!
🌊 Beachfront Bliss
Enjoy the proximity to a magnificent sandy beach, perfect for relaxing after exploring.
🏡 Welcoming Hosts
Expect warm hospitality, often with local wine and sweets as a welcome gift.
🚗 Island Exploration Base
The windmills are a great starting point to discover the entire island of Graciosa.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
The factory is typically open during regular business hours, but it's advisable to check locally for specific times, especially outside peak tourist season.
No, there is no entrance fee to see the exterior of the Graciosa Windmills. They are part of the landscape and the village.
Only the apartments that have been converted into accommodations are accessible from the inside. These require a booking.
While official guided tours might be limited, your accommodation host can often provide insights into the history and renovation of the windmills.
🎫 🧭 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.
Absolutely! The unique architecture, coastal setting, and stunning sunrises make the Graciosa Windmills incredibly photogenic.
Expect beautiful coastal scenery, the sound of the ocean, and the calls of local birds like 'cagarros' during spring and summer nights.
Yes, Praia São Mateus is a small, peaceful village. Walking around the windmills and along the beach is generally very safe.
The village offers restaurants, cafes, a ferry port, and a supermarket within easy reach of the windmills.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
Don't miss the 'Queijadas da Graciosa,' a delicious local sweet. Fresh seafood is also a must-try on the island.
Yes, the renovated windmill apartments are equipped with small kitchens, allowing you to prepare your own meals.
While traditional Azorean cuisine often features meat and fish, many restaurants are becoming more accommodating. It's best to inquire directly with the eateries.
Dining on Graciosa is generally more affordable than on larger islands. Local eateries offer good value for money.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise offers magical light for stunning photos. Golden hour in the late afternoon also provides beautiful, soft lighting.
Their unique architectural design, coastal setting, and the vibrant colors of the sunrise and sunset create a picturesque scene.
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.
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.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💖 Couples Retreat
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.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Renovated Windmills
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.
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.
Exploring Graciosa Island from Praia São Mateus
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.
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.
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