About Us
The Art of Living
A water mill in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean that not only promotes art, architecture, nature, and biodiversity, but also embodies them.
The Mill’s heritage
The water mills of Ribeira Grande are referred to as the best of the Islands and the Portuguese Kingdom, being the main milling center of the island of São Miguel. They appeared in the 15th century, having energized the socio-economic life of the region. These mills operated with a common 'Mãe d’água,' that is, in a system of mills in a chain, with a unique water circuit, ending at Monte Verde beach, Ribeira Grande, where Moinho da Areia is located.
We try to preserve the authenticity of the Mill’s memory by preserving two of the three millstones that used to grind cereals here, mainly corn, so we can enjoy this history, but also so that it can be passed on to future visitors of Moinho da Areia. For architectural reasons, the structure of the millstones had to be removed, however, it is kept as the historical heritage it is.
Recently the Ribeira Grande municipality restored an old mill – Moinho de Água da Praça - into a Museum, which you can visit to better understand the history of this type of cultural heritage.
The Art of Living
A water mill in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean that not only promotes art, architecture, nature, and biodiversity, but also embodies them.
Creative Process
This project was born from a collaborative joy between its founders – Inês and João – and their friend Joana Subtil, who took charge of art direction and interior design. It was a long but fulfilling journey, spanning 4 to 5 years from its inception to the opening in mid August 2024. From the outset, we knew our aim was to preserve and honor the Moinho’s history, celebrate the oceans – an intrinsic part of the São Miguel and Azores experience. While deliberately steering clear of the typical “beach house” vibe , although we are located just 149 steps from the Atlantic Ocean, while crafting a meaningful project.
In designing the interiors and choosing materials, we prioritized local suppliers whenever possible – from carpenters and cabinetmakers to metalworkers. When sourcing items such as tiles, textiles, and natural skincare products, we relied primarily on suppliers from mainland Portugal. Our furniture was custom-designed using local and recycled materials, such as repurposed plastic and old skateboards that would otherwise be discarded. Local woods, including cryptomeria, were used thoughtfully.
Additionally, we collaborated with artists and artisans from both the Azores and mainland Portugal to create bespoke pieces exclusively for Moinho da Areia, including all art on the walls, tapestry, door handles, and more. We hope you enjoy the environment we’ve crafted and the intentionality behind every detail as much as we enjoy the creative process. For further insights into these collaborations please explore this section in our website
About the Founders
We are two siblings from mainland Portugal who discovered an abandoned water mill -estimated to date from between the 16th and 19th centuries - on the north shore of São Miguel Island. This marked the beginning of our Azorean endeavor. With great care, we restored it into our dream home for fellow travelers, wanderers, and explorers, and Moinho da Areia was born in mid-August 2024. We are currently developing more projects on the island, guided by the same aesthetic—where the island’s unique character and contemporary design meet.
João and Inês
São Miguel
São Miguel is the largest island in the Azores archipelago, composed of nine islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Home to more than half of the Azorean population – around 137,000 residents, known as Micaelenses – the island blends lush volcanic landscapes, coastal charm, and a laid-back rhythm that invites you to slow down.
6 Essential Tips in São Miguel
To rediscover the joy of travel
(1)
Go slower
Skip the checklist. Rent some wheels, take the back roads – public transportation won’t take you there. Spend more time in fewer places and let spontaneity guide you. The island is meant to be felt – crater lakes, hidden beaches, old lighthouses and quiet villages – not rushed. Nature is the host here.
(2)
Let the locals guide you
Ask for recommendations at the beach, in the surf lineup, at the local market or on the street. The best prego no bolo lêvedo is rarely in a guidebook – nor the one suggested by the algorithm.
(3)
Pack for every season – even in a day
The Azorean weather is famously unpredictable, after all we are in a subtropical island. Bring layers, a rain jacket, and a swimsuit (plus an older one for those mineral-rich hot springs). São Miguel is also rich in biodiversity, which means bugs can occasionally show up in unexpected places – it is just part of being close to nature And yes, we love spontaneity – but if you’re aiming to see Lagoa do Fogo, check the Spot Azores app first. It shows live webcams and might save you from arriving at a view completely covered in clouds.
(4)
Explore the island’s wild waters
From geothermal springs to Atlantic swells, São Miguel is all about water. Soak in natural hot pools, beaches with sand warmed by a dormant volcano or surf at Monte Verde – just 149 steps from our door.
(5)
Eat local, eat seasonal
Try fresh fish – species you never heard of – often found only here. Also grilled lapas, greenhouse-grown pineapples, and tea from Europe’s oldest plantation.
(6)
Let the Unplanned moments in
The best memories often come from surprises. Change your route, skip the plan, wander a bit, get a little lost – and love it.
What they say about us
“The restored mill is beautifully designed with different artists designing individual artworks for each room. This gave the whole place an artsy, yet comfy vibe.”
Schlyppi
01-17-2025
10/10
“We loved being close to the beach and hearing the ocean as we fell asleep and woke up.”
Michelle
02-11-2024
10/10
