Sofia was born in Jardim do Mar (municipality of Calheta, Madeira island, Portugal), on the warmest Madeiran coastline with more sunshine exposure.
She built the house of her dreams with her husband Nelio before getting married and having their daughter Elisa. Right in the middle of the green banana fields.
There are no cars near the house or traffic noise. Cars are parked in a car park as no one has road access to their property. Everywhere is in easy reach of the car park.
Sofia’s family lives in the village since ever. Her grandfather José Maria Araújo used to own a watermill that you can visit going through the banana field pathways behind Sofia’s Place. There is a lot to discover and feel around.
Sofia, Nelio and Elisa lived here for ten years and decided to move recently and rent an apartment in a village nearby because the primary school of Jardim do Mar was definitely closed in July 2010. Their daughter Elisa had to go to another school and all three decided to go for a change. However, they visit Jardim do Mar almost every day.
In 20 or 25 years time, when they retire, they may go back to their beloved first home in the village by the sea. And will then stop renting the house for vacation... sorry.