Stone Cottage, Mosteiros, Azores
Submitted: February 21, 2013
Stayed: February 2013
What a restful yet rejuvenating setting! Exactly what we were looking for.... a quiet place to relax, reflect and renew. This solidly built stone cottage sitting on the tip of a lava flow facing a raging sea was an excellent place to be reminded of the need to be "planted on solid ground". We were delighted to experience a storm the second night of our stay. The constant roar of wind and crashing surf just below our bedroom window was awesome, yet the security of the sturdy stone construction and proven foundation was never doubted. What can compare to peace in a storm?
This location is not for one looking for high adventure and activity. The island itself has much to see and do but this cottage is situated in a quiet community where there is very little traffic, especially at night. The pace and steadiness of village life has a calming affect.
The ocean-facing windows have an unhindered view. My husband is an amateur photographer who was thrilled with the variable and contrasting sky and sea. The changing tide and "moods" of the surf lent themselves to hundreds of possibilities.
He spent literally hours watching for and catching shots. A sense of hope can grow when different possibilities and options are constantly forming as one waits and considers. Encouragement can come as one has time to consider possibilities, and we certainly found that to be true at this cottage.
Do plan on preparing some of your meals, especially breakfast and dinner. The village has little to offer except for lunches. There are excellent restaurants within 30 minutes, but evening driving can be a bit intimidating on curvaceous roads on foggy or misty nights. The kitchen is quaint but adequately furnished.
For us, the greatest attraction to this choice is the contrast between the solid and sturdy construction of the cottage and the fluid changeableness of the sea. Whether the sea raged or lulled, roared or whispered the house remained unshaken, dry (inside) and secure. We arrived weary and rushed, but soon felt the healing atmosphere of steady and powerful waves beating against firm and established lava flows where someone had established a place of refuge and peace.
Next time we hope to have friends along. The serene and quiet security of the little cottage will lend itself to "letting the walls down" and lead to great conversation.
Owner's Response: Thank you for the great review . You explained how we felt the first time we arrived at the stonehouse. Close the door to the world and you feel alone with your thoughts. A calmness comes over you and stress is released. We could watch the waves for hours with a coffee in hand.
We look forward to you returning and many others staying at the stonehouse looking for that stress-free vacation.
Thank you again for taking time to share your thoughts.
Bonita and Ed
Helpful votes: 2/2
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