LAVA Açores Coliving & Coworking - A Spacious Nomad Haven in São Miguel

About This Space

LAVA Açores is a thoughtfully designed coliving space set in a charming, renovated traditional house, offering an exceptional blend of comfort, functionality, and community. The property is renowned for its spaciousness, featuring high ceilings, large private rooms with dedicated workspaces, and expansive common areas that foster both social interaction and quiet retreat. A dedicated, well-equipped coworking space with reliable high-speed internet ensures productivity, while the large communal kitchen becomes a natural hub for shared meals and connection. Managed with great care and attention to detail, LAVA creates a warm, welcoming, and impeccably clean environment where digital nomads and remote workers can truly feel at home while discovering the natural wonders of the Azores.

Biggest Pros

• Exceptionally spacious and beautifully designed house with ample room for both socializing and privacy
• Impeccably clean, well-organized, and professionally managed with attentive hosts
• Reliable, high-speed internet and a dedicated, quiet coworking space
• Strong sense of community with organic, low-pressure social interactions and shared activities
• Fully equipped, large communal kitchen that encourages shared meals

Biggest Cons

Unique Selling Point

An exceptionally spacious and thoughtfully renovated traditional Azorean villa that masterfully balances expansive, peaceful living areas with a warm, organic community vibe, offering digital nomads both a serene retreat and a social home base.

Neighborhood

Located in a quiet residential area between Ribeira Grande and Rabo de Peixe, offering a peaceful, authentic Azorean vibe away from tourist crowds. The area is not walkable for daily amenities but provides a tranquil setting with beautiful ocean and mountain views.

Community Vibe

A warm, inclusive, and low-pressure community where connections form organically over shared meals and spontaneous adventures.

Social Events

The community thrives on organic interactions rather than a rigid schedule. Shared family-style dinners, potlucks, and movie nights using the in-house projector are common. Hosts and residents frequently organize impromptu group outings to nearby hot springs, hikes, beaches, and local spots, often coordinated via a house WhatsApp group. There is no pressure to participate, allowing residents to choose their level of social engagement.

Typical Resident

A mix of international digital nomads, remote workers, freelancers, and slow travelers seeking a balance of productive work and authentic exploration in a supportive, like-minded environment.

Amenities

LAVA Açores is exceptionally well-equipped for the remote work lifestyle. The highlight is a spacious, dedicated coworking area with ergonomic chairs, multiple desks, and reliable high-speed Wi-Fi. Private rooms are bright and comfortable, each featuring a dedicated workspace. The large, fully-stocked communal kitchen is a social hub, complete with modern appliances. Additional amenities include a laundry room with washer/dryer, a projector for movie nights, outdoor terraces with stunning views, a garden, and basic fitness equipment like yoga mats and weights.

• Dedicated 24/7 coworking space with ergonomic chairs and desks
• High-speed, reliable Wi-Fi throughout the property
• Large, fully equipped communal kitchen with modern appliances
• Private rooms with dedicated work desks and chairs
• Laundry room with washer and dryer
• Projector and screen for movie nights
• Multiple outdoor terraces and garden areas with ocean/mountain views
• Basic fitness equipment (yoga mats, weights, pull-up bar)
• On-site parking
• Weekly cleaning and linen change for longer stays

Location & Accessibility

The coliving is centrally located on São Miguel Island, offering good access to key attractions, but its residential setting requires personal transport for daily convenience and exploration.

Public Transport

Public transportation on the island is very limited and not a practical option for regular exploration or accessing the coliving easily. João Paulo II Airport (PDL) is approximately a 20-25 minute drive away.

Car Considerations

A rental car or motorcycle is highly recommended, and almost essential, for a comfortable stay. The property offers free on-site parking. Having a vehicle provides the freedom to explore the island's dispersed attractions, access supermarkets, and navigate the non-walkable local area with ease.

Walkability

The immediate neighborhood is quiet and residential, not walkable to cafes, restaurants, or supermarkets. For local transport, taxis or ride-sharing apps are options, but services may be limited. The design of the space encourages residents to stay in or organize group trips.

Key Distances

Approximately 15-20 minutes drive to Ponta Delgada; 5-10 minutes to Santa Bárbara Beach (prime surf spot); 10 minutes to a supermarket; 15 minutes to Lagoa do Fogo; 3.1 miles (5 km) from the center of Ribeira Grande.

Challenges & Tips

The primary challenge is the lack of walkability. The best strategy is to rent a car upon arrival. The coliving community often shares rides, so connecting with fellow residents can also provide transportation opportunities for exploration.

Lifestyle Activities

Social & Cultural

Organic community life centered around shared meals, movie nights, and spontaneous group explorations.

• Weekly family dinners and potluck meals
• Movie nights using the in-house projector
• Group visits to local hot springs (e.g., Caldeira Velha)
• Trips to the local farmers market (Mercado Agrícola de Santana)
• Casual gatherings at nearby beach bars

Wellness & Fitness

Low-key wellness opportunities utilizing on-site amenities and the natural environment.

• Yoga or stretching in the garden or using provided mats
• Basic workouts with available weights and pull-up bar
• Access to an on-site acupuncture clinic (run by a host)
• Relaxing in the peaceful garden and outdoor spaces

Outdoor & Adventure

Easy access to the island's famed natural wonders, with group outings frequently organized by residents.

• Surfing at nearby Santa Bárbara Beach
• Hiking to crater lakes like Lagoa do Fogo
• Exploring waterfalls and coastal viewpoints
• Swimming in natural hot springs and ocean lagoons

Ratings