Sustainable Style in the Azores
The name of this set of homes translates into English as "a corner of paradise," and that's what its owners wanted to a create – a place, they say, where real happiness can be shared. Their private idyll is made up of a modern villa and a traditional casita that offer views of the entire island and the vast Atlantic Ocean from their hilltop perch. They can be rented separately, or together for larger groups.
The property brought to life by the owner and an Ibiza-based designer, with Balinese and bohemian influences, but it's very much focused on the environment around it. The structures are eco-builds made with sustainable and recycled materials, and they're located on two hectares of land that hold a private, protected forest which guests are welcome to explore. The larger of the two units, the Villa, has a skylight opening onto a living roof that's filled with marigolds, herbs and medicinal plants.
The spaces
The Villa encourages the outside in, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and garden access from every room. There are two en-suite bedrooms (one with a Jacuzzi, the other with a shower), a well-equipped kitchen, a large dining table, and a tea station where you can make your own infusions from the island's plants. Outside, you'll find a barbecue and large dining table, plus a stone bath, which can be filled with hot water, for indulgent outdoor bathing.
The Casita is traditional Santa Maria style, with a characteristic tall chimney and gabled roof, using natural stone and wood. One bathroom has a circular bath, built into the space where a wood oven used to be, while the other has a shower, Japanese toilet and stone basin. Outside, there's a terrace with sunbeds, gazebo, barbecue, and vegetable garden, which guests are welcome to enjoy.
Around
The Azores are a chain of islands in the mid-Atlantic that are an autonomous region of Portugal. They're made up of nine volcanic islands, including this one – Santa Maria, the third smallest. with around 5,500 residents. It's famous for its mild climate, brought to it by the passing Gulf Stream. The island is a patchwork of agricultural fields, with white-washed houses, black basalt churches and a rainbow of flowers.
There are several music festivals held in July and August, including a folk festival, blues festival and the famous Mare de Agosto that attracts musicians from around the world.
Location
Santo Espírito, Vila do Porto, Santa Maria, Azores, Portugal. Nearest airport: Aeroporto João Paulo II in Ponta Delgada on São Miguel island.
Best time to visit
Visit between May and September to spend time on the beach and enjoy the nightlife. Late March through May, and October to early November are perfect for long walks and sightseeing.
