AstroVan is a converted stationary vintage van parked at our backyard, in Sete Cidades. A wooden tiny house topped with a double bed mattress, creative workspace and kitchenette.

Though you CAN’T drive it, AstroVan carries the vibes and the spirit of adventure from our travels. Now AstroVan is a stationary-sustainable-wooden-creative-tiny-house for artists.

Sete Cidades feels like stepping into a hidden world. Picture this: two lakes side by side, one blue, one green, surrounded by lush cliffs and all wrapped in misty magic. Locals say it’s where star-crossed lovers left their mark, and honestly, you can feel that story in the air. It’s the perfect place to slow down, soak up the view, and let the island’s wild beauty take over—it’s pure Azores, untouched and unforgettable.

Getting to AstroVan is easy! We’re located about a 30-minute drive from Ponta Delgada Airport. You can rent a car at the airport or arrange a transfer, which we’re happy to assist with.

Once you arrive, parking is available right on our property for your convenience.

If you don’t aim to drive around all over the island and wants to focus on Sete Cidades, we can help you to make it local and have less impact during your stay.

Check-in: Flexible (but we need to agree about the arrival time, to be ready for you).

Checkout: Flexible (but we need to agree on it).

Check-in method: In-person greeting (let’s make it personal : )

Check-in instructions: Once you book your artist residency, you’ll receive a welcome e-mail with all information you need.

Yes! The network name and password will be provided upon arrival (QR code).

Water supply inside the van. How it works?

It’s all about sustainability and mindful use of water (our planet’s most precious resource). AstroVan has a 35L gallon filled with fresh water upon your arrival. We have a mini pump and a boiler installed which brings hot water to the tap. You can easily identify when you’re running out of water, visually or by the sound it makes. If this moment comes, let us know and we come to refill the gallon for you and empty the gray water tank. Easy-peasy : )

How do I use the AstroVan’s appliances?

The indoor space includes a compact gas stove and a mini oven, a mini refrigerator, a sink with hot water, a radiant heater and a TV. The coffee machine is easier to use than it looks: just follow the instructions on the side. Capsules are in the cupboard above. 

Instructions and safety guidelines are in the manual provided inside the van.

Where can I find additional amenities?

Essential amenities such as blankets, towels, toiletries, cooking basics, dishes, and reusable containers are stored in clearly labeled compartments inside the van. A guidebook will point you to their exact locations.

Clothing and Luggage storage

You have more than enough space under the van’s bed to store your luggages (all sizes), and also dedicated storage spaces for your clothes (no hangers).

How do I gain access to the AstroVan?

• Separate building entrance.

• On foot: dedicated door.

• By car: drive through the sliding gate.

You have a dedicated space in our backyard, separated from our garden by a mini gate and fence to ensure your privacy.

What safety measures are in place?

Fire extinguisher, first aid kit, smoke alarm, carbon monoxide alarm, and emergency contact numbers are readily available.

We live on the property with our two small, friendly dogs, but rest assured, artists have their own space in the backyard where AstroVan is parked. We value peace, quiet, and meaningful human connections. That’s why we personally greet artists-in-residence at check-in to establish a real connection. While we are calm and discreet, respecting your privacy, we kindly ask artists to embrace the tranquility of the space—no parties, loud music, or noise are allowed.

• No loud music, parties, or excessive noise.

• Events are not allowed.

• Quiet hours: 9PM - 9AM

• Smoking is prohibited inside the AstroVan and inside the bathroom.

• Respect the environment by recycling and composting as indicated in the instructions.

• Please manage your trash following the instructions.

• Only registered artists are allowed on the property.

• No pets allowed.

• Be mindful, please turn off the radiant heating and lights when you go out.

• Please respect check-in and check-out times. 

• Please take extra care of your keys. Lost keys incur a replacement fee of 100€ (yep, it’s a car key ;)

• Please take care of the furnishings.

• Please do your dishes at the sink OUTDOORS. The indoors sink is only for personal hygiene and cooking purposes.

• No illegal substances allowed on the premises.

• Commercial photography and filming are not allowed.

• Be very careful while using the outdoor fire pit!

We have energy-efficient systems (like solar panels) and reuse and recycling practices (as rain water collection for watering the plants, or selective sorting bins).

Please be responsible and mindful about the use of the resources by taking low-flow and short showers, turning of lights when not needed, managing waste, etc.

• We have a 50 litre hot water system. How many showers can you take with this system?

A 50 litre boiler is suitable for one or two person. You can get around 15-20min of hot shower with the small showerhead and 10min max with the big one. Be mindful.

AstroVan Artist Residency is much more than a converted van! It’s a mini creative complex that offers you all the comfort you need to feel home.

• Full Private Bathroom: Hot shower, radiant heating, hot water, hair dryer and shower essentials.

• Dedicated Multifunctional Outdoor Creative Area: Dining/working table, dishwasher/cooking sink.

• Indoor Creative Studio and Kitchen: Dining/working table, dishwasher/cooking sink.

• Fire Pit: Barbecue utensils as grill, charcoal/recycled wood, iron skewers, etc.

• Garden lounge: Comfortable chairs, wooden stools, big multifunctional table.

• AstroVan’s Rooftop: There’s a nice wooden deck at the van’s rooftop, which you can carefully access climbing a attached ladder in the back of the van. Bring some pillows and a blanket with you and enjoy the volcanic crater around you or just stargaze.