Grandpa Tó's Mill
An old windmill and miller's house that have been restored are the basis for a new residential tourism project in Rio Maior. Its location in the Serra de Aire e Candeeiros Natural Park and its proximity to the region's extensive heritage complete the invitation to visit.
The approach of Easter is the motto for a getaway and a few days of rest. "Moinho do Avô Tó", a residential tourism project located in the heart of the Serra de Aire e Candeeiros Natural Park, was designed with those looking for a relaxing retreat and discovery in mind. An old three-storey windmill dating back to the end of the 19th century has been restored, and now the old miller's house and a restored living space have been added.
During Easter week, it will be possible to visit the Mill, which can be booked through the project's website at https://moinhodoavoto.pt/
In addition to the expanded offer, "Moinho do Avô Tó" also has a new brand and a website to present all its potential, as well as sharing the natural, historical, architectural and cultural heritage of the surrounding region with the public who want to get to know it.
The space has a personal meaning for the project manager, who defines it as "a place full of memories and experiences that I want to preserve and continue - family reunions, meetings with friends, the different generations, my parents', mine and my sisters', nephews', and nephews' children. I also want to share this place with other people who share the same values."
"This place has always been changing and evolving, in order to make it more comfortable and to implement sustainable solutions, but care has been taken to preserve the essence of the place, the wood, the clay, the furniture, typical of the region and of this type of ambience"adds Anabela da Conceição Colaço.
The preservation of traditional elements
Original techniques and materials have been preserved in the restoration of the mill and the house. Lime has been used in the mill, the windows and doors are made of wood, the floors are made of wood in the mill and clay tiles from the region in the house, and in one of the rooms there is a large traditional fireplace.
A partnership was established with a local weaving center which, using natural wool and vegetable dyes, produced rugs, cushions and blankets to decorate the space. The bed linen is made of cotton and, like the towels, is produced in Portugal.
The house and mill use decorative elements and traditional pieces from the region, such as clay jars and bowls, clay plates and Bunho stools - handmade from the reeds that grow on the banks of the Tagus. All the furniture is made of wood and is typical of the region, such as tables and benches, and the wooden armchairs, which are very common in the area's villages, also feature the Alcobaça cheetah.
The exterior features local vegetation - pine trees, holm oaks, oaks, shrubs typical of the region, rosemary, rosemary, horehound, oregano, among others, as well as a small vegetable garden, fruit trees and a swimming pool with a porch.