Perched in the scenic village of Terralta on Pico Island, Azores, Lava Homes is an eco-conscious resort offering a distinctive “village-style” accommodation experience. This family-owned property features modern housing units built with local materials, each strategically positioned to capture panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and São Jorge Island.
The resort seamlessly blends sustainability with luxury, incorporating photovoltaic panels, pellet stoves, and rainwater harvesting systems. Guests can enjoy amenities including a heated swimming pool, yoga facilities, the on-site Magma restaurant, and a craft shop, while experiencing unique activities from dolphin watching to deep-sea fishing.
Their story
Lava Homes was established in 2015 as a family-owned eco-resort in Terralta, Santo Amaro. Founded with a vision to create a sustainable village-style retreat, the property features fourteen accommodation units built from local materials like lava stone and cryptomeria wood. The property’s strategic location provides panoramic views, while preserving the area’s natural heritage and cultural identity. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The resort preserves the land’s natural orography, utilizing local materials like stone and cryptomeria wood.
- Energy-saving features include solar panels, pellet heating, LED lighting, natural ventilation, and double-glazed windows for better insulation.
- The gardens showcase endemic plants, preserving existing species.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- The resort utilizes photovoltaic panels for electricity generation and efficient heat pumps for water heating.
- All accommodations feature pellet stoves for eco-friendly heating, while natural ventilation provides cooling.
- LED lighting with motion sensors and key card systems prevent energy waste when rooms are unoccupied.
- Double-glazed windows throughout the property ensure optimal thermal insulation.
Pioneer in waste management
- The resort implements comprehensive waste management through total garbage separation for recycling.
- They utilize rainwater collection in preserved cisterns for irrigation purposes.
- The property emphasizes local sourcing, with most restaurant ingredients produced on the island, reducing transportation waste.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- Lava Homes emphasizes eco-friendly practices throughout their property, utilizing natural and chemical-free products in their operations.
Actively protects nature and community
- The property preserves local heritage by maintaining original stone walls, ruins, and footpaths. They source local produce for their restaurant, practice waste segregation, and use LED lighting with motion sensors. The development protects endemic plants and maintains the natural landscape, creating a harmonious balance between modern comfort and environmental stewardship.
Most Popular Activities Near Lava Homes
- Dolphin and whale watching excursions.
- Deep-sea fishing adventures.
- Scenic coastal boat trips.
- Guided hiking and nature walks.
- Relaxing massages and wellness treatments.
- Yoga classes with certified instructors.
- Swimming in natural lava pools.
- Mountain climbing at Pico Mountain.
- Wine tasting at UNESCO Heritage vineyards.
- Craft workshops at Santo Amaro School.
- Cave exploration at Gruta das Torres.
- Cultural tours to whaling museums.
- Picnicking in natural parks.
- Island coastal tours.
- Natural volcanic pool access.
- Exploring and relaxing on the beautiful nearby beaches.
Best Time To Visit Lava Homes
- The best time to visit Lava Homes is from June to September when temperatures in Pico Island, Azores, are warmest and most stable. This period offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities like hiking, dolphin watching, and enjoying the heated pool.
- Spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) are also pleasant with mild temperatures but higher chances of rain.
- Winter visits from December to March can be rewarding for a peaceful stay, with the houses well-equipped with heating systems and perfect for experiencing local culture, though some outdoor activities may be limited.