For centuries, cereals like corn and wheat were a big part of the food traditions in Portugal and in most European countries. That is why you can find many mills on all the islands. Some work with water, others with wind, which is the case for Moinho do Frade.
This black and red windmill, lost in the middle of the famous narrow vineyards of Pico Island, is quite the popular spot for photos. Despite no longer being used as a windmill, this iconic landscape is a must-visit while on holiday on the gray island.
Discover more about this cute landmark that you cannot miss in Pico.
What is Moinho do Frade
Moinho do Frade is a windmill on the western part of Pico Island, in the middle of the Vineyards of Criação Velha. It is a tourist highlight, and if you climb the stairs, it offers a viewpoint over the vines and the coast, with the ocean and Faial Island in the background. On the other side, the majestic Pico Mountain is visible on a clear day.
From there, observe the typical volcanic island landscape, with contrasts of color: black from the basalt stones separating the plants, green from the vines, and blue from the ocean.
From the Past
Historically, mills like this were an essential part of island life. They not only supported agriculture but also became part of the local identity. Painted in bright colors, they stood out against the black stones, symbolizing self-sufficiency and community life.
Nowadays
Built in the 20th century, Moinho do Frade was once part of a network of windmills scattered across Pico Island. Over time, it fell into disrepair and was in ruins by the late 1900s.
Did you know
Between 2003 and 2004, the windmill was restored entirely. Its stone base, wooden structure, and sails were all rebuilt, preserving the original design and the internal mechanism.
Today, Moinho do Frade is more of a museum, offering insight into the island’s agricultural past.
Plan Your Visit to Moinho do Frade
How to Get to Moinho do Frade
Moinho do Frade is located in Criação Velha, near Madalena, on the west coast of Pico Island. It is within the Protected Landscape of the Vineyard Culture of Pico Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Madalena, it is about 45 minutes on foot or 7 minutes by car for 3.5 km.
The windmill is at a low altitude and can be reached by following a dirt path, which is part of the PR05 PIC hiking trail — Criação Velha Vineyards, as vines inside a stone wall surround it. This short walk is part of the charm, as you can discover a unique way of growing Verdelho and Arinto vines, and it’s pretty beautiful.
Planning a trip to the Azores? These articles will help you: How to Get to the Azores 🗺️ | Azores airports 🛬 | Flights between islands ✈️ | Ferries between islands ⛴️ | Which island to choose? 🏝️ | What airlines fly to the Azores? 🛩️
Best Time to Visit
You can visit the windmill all day, all year round. If you want special colors in your pictures, the sunset is a perfect time to go, as you will be on the West coast, where the sun sets over the ocean, right next to Faial Island. Make sure to go on a sunny day to enjoy views of Pico Mountain, which is quite shy and often hides in the clouds!
Check all our articles about the weather in the Azores throughout the year 🌤️ ☔️: January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December
Pro Tips
If you are hiking the Criação Velha Trail, bring hiking shoes and comfortable shoes. Although this is quite an easy and flat trail, you can experience different kinds of weather, so always be prepared for the 4 seasons in a day. Also, take your swimsuit with you as there are beautiful natural swimming pools in the area (Poçinho and Criação Velha).
Azores Guide Book
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Nearby Attractions
Madalena
Madalena on the island of Pico is the wine capital of the Azores. There, you can visit the wine museum, created in 1999, to learn more about this tasty drink. Tasting some wines is a must.
The vineyards by the sea provide this unique flavor reminiscent of the salty ocean breeze. The fact that they are planted in volcanic soil also influences the final result. This wine is unmatched anywhere else in the world!
Criação Velha Trail
Filled with unique green vineyards between lava walls, the Criação Velha Trail in Madalena is not to be missed. The landscape is very special, something you can’t see anywhere else in the world. There is a beautiful natural pool between the lava rocks to cool off in after the walk.
The volcanic landscape used for wine production is so unique that it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004. The locals are proud of their distinctive wines and vineyards.
👉 Related Tour: Hiking Criação Velha Vineyards 🍷🍇
Cella Bar
The Cella Bar is also a unique place located by the coast near Madalena. What makes it so special is its unconventional architecture. It has won several awards for its exceptional beauty. From here, you can enjoy a fantastic view over the islets of Madalena and the island of Faial.
Pico Mountain
Pico Mountain is the crown jewel of Pico Island, the highest point in Portugal at 2,351 meters. The adventure begins at the Casa da Montanha, approximately 1,230 meters above sea level, where you can learn about the volcano and prepare for the climb.
The trail to the summit offers an unforgettable challenge for those seeking it. Along the way, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding Azorean archipelago. Guided climbs are available to ensure safety and maximize the adventure.
Check all our articles about each one of the most relevant points of interest on Pico Island: Pico Mountain | 15 Unique Things to do in Pico Island | Madalena | São Roque do Pico | Moinho do Frade
Complementary Information
Best Season to Visit the Azores
The Azores Archipelago boasts a unique climate that shapes its lush landscapes, making it a splendid year-round destination. With mild temperatures and minimal fluctuations, each season offers something unique. Spring averages 16 °C, summer reaches 21 °C, autumn cools to 18 °C, and winter remains mild at 14 °C.
→ For a detailed breakdown of the weather by month, check the following links 🌤️☔️: January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December
How to Get to the Azores
The Azorean Archipelago is easily accessible through numerous flight routes. Lisbon and Porto are the main entry points to the continent, with direct flights available to São Miguel (PDL), Terceira (TER), Faial (HOR), Pico (PIX), and Santa Maria (SMA). To find the best flight, use search engines like eDreams or Skyscanner. These platforms let you compare prices and schedules from multiple airlines in one convenient location.
For more details on how to get to the Azores, take a look at our complete guide. But what if you want to explore beyond your arrival island? We’ve got you covered!
- Azores airports 🛬
- Flights between islands ✈️
- Ferries between islands ⛴️
- Which island to choose? 🏝️
- What airlines fly to the Azores? 🛩️
→ Once you’ve found the perfect route, book your tickets and get ready to experience one of the world’s most stunning island groups!
Travel Essentials
Essential Information for your Azores trip: Azorean Language & Phrases 🗣️ | Currency & Banks 💵 | Credit Cards & Traveler’s Cheques 🏧 | Driving in the Azores 🚗 | Electricity 🔌 | Experiences & Tours 🗺️ | Health & Safety 🩺 | Internet & Wi-Fi Access 🛜 | Phones & Mobile Service 📞 | Post Offices & Buying Stamps ✉️ | Public Holidays 🏖️ | Shopping 🛒 | Time & Daylight 🕒 | Whale Watching Guide 🐳 | Best Island to Visit 🏞️
Useful Tools & Apps
The weather in the Azores can be variable, so it’s helpful to use some apps before visiting the islands. Spotazores provides live camera feeds from the main tourist attractions, allowing you to check the weather and plan your visit. For accurate weather predictions, use Windy or Windguru — they provide the most reliable predictions.
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Conclusion
Moinho do Frade is more than just a photogenic windmill — it’s a symbol of Pico’s agricultural history and culture. This is definitely a place you don’t want to miss while on holiday on the Grey Island.
Its bright red top against the dramatic black volcanic landscape creates an absolutely unforgettable contrast. For photography lovers or hiking enthusiasts, or if you want to enjoy one of the best views on the island, this little windmill is well worth a visit.
Authors’ Note
I am pleased to inform you that all the recommendations in this article are based on my personal experience and observations. As the author, I have personally visited each attraction mentioned, ensuring that every suggestion is grounded in first-hand knowledge and genuine enthusiasm.
FAQs
Moinho do Frade is a restored traditional windmill located in Criação Velha, on the western side of Pico Island. It sits in the middle of the island’s iconic basalt-walled vineyards, offering panoramic views of the coast, the ocean, Faial Island, and Pico Mountain.
You can reach Moinho do Frade by walking or driving from Madalena. It’s about 3.5 km from the town, roughly 45 minutes on foot or 7 minutes by car. The windmill sits along the PR05 PIC hiking trail through the UNESCO-listed Criação Velha Vineyards.
For centuries, mills like Moinho do Frade played a vital role in grinding cereals, such as corn and wheat, which were essential to the Azorean and Portuguese diets. This windmill reflects Pico’s rural heritage and was fully restored between 2003 and 2004 to preserve its original design and mechanism.
The windmill can be visited year-round, but sunset offers the most beautiful light, especially on clear days. This time of day highlights the vineyards, basalt walls, and the ocean with Faial Island on the horizon. Visit on a sunny day for better chances of seeing Pico Mountain.
