Discover the gentle beauty of Graciosa Island, an Azores island known for its picturesque windmills, stunning natural pools, and peaceful lifestyle. Explore the island’s quaint villages, relax in the thermal waters of Carapacho, and marvel at the unique geological formations of the Furna do Enxofre. With its friendly local community, excellent opportunities for hiking and cycling, and a slow-paced, authentic lifestyle, Graciosa is the perfect escape for those seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and a truly unforgettable island experience.
Azores Islands: São Miguel, Terceira, Santa Maria, Flores, São Jorge, Faial, Pico, Graciosa, Corvo
Yield for this property is over 5%
Yield for this property is 3-5%
Yield for this property is below 3%
Graciosa is famous for several unique attractions and delicacies. The island is renowned for the hardy Graciosa Donkey breed and its exceptional wines, grown in the traditional Azorean style. The iconic windmills dotting the landscape add to the island’s charm, while the beloved Queijadas da Graciosa pastries are sold across Portugal, but especially cherished in the Azores.
In terms of places to live, the city of Santa Cruz da Graciosa is the main hub, inviting visitors to wander its intricately tiled streets, appreciate the traditional architecture, and savour a coffee or meal at the central plaza. This town centre offers banks, cafes, and restaurants, and would be your main port of call if you lived here.
Alternatively, the well-preserved traditional village of São Mateus, formerly known as Vila da Praia (but still called “Praia” by locals), offers beach and a smaller-town feel. A stroll through its historic centre reveals several churches and chapels, including the 16th-century Igreja de São Mateus, which houses Flemish and Baroque carvings and artwork. Just a five-minute walk from the church, the Fábrica das Queijadas da Graciosa bakery tempts visitors with the famous star-shaped queijada pastries filled with milk and eggs.
In terms of properties for sale, Graciosa offers a diverse range, from apartments to houses. Whether you’re seeking a newly constructed home or a charming property in need of some tender loving care, the island caters to various preferences and budgets.
Graciosa is accessible via its airport, or you can opt for the ferry service with direct routes to Terceira and Sāo Jorge, with connections to other islands. The combination of air and sea travel options makes the island feel less remote, particularly to Terceira which is one of the larger and more populated islands in the Azores.