Community, Culture, and Creamy Cheese: A Sunday at Amago Wellness Farm

There is a special kind of magic that happens when a community gathers to support a local dream. This past Sunday, I headed over to Amago Wellness Farm for their Artesanal Food Fair—a vibrant fundraiser hosted by owners Gena and Joao to help complete their farm’s construction.

Arriving around 3:00 PM, I was greeted by a lively crowd of about 50 people, all gathered for a day of soup festivals, local vendors, live music, and lawn games. Amago is truly unique; they are currently the island’s only provider of raw milk , and their holistic approach to farming is something you can feel the moment you step onto the property.

The Art of Queijo Fresco

I signed up for the cheese-making workshop, which turned out to be a highlight of my week. We didn’t just sit in a classroom; we went straight to the source!

1. The Roundup: We headed out to the lush pastures to help round up the cows, guiding them back to the barn for feeding.

2. The Milking: We watched the traditional hand-milking process, seeing firsthand where the ingredients for our cheese originated.

3. The Science: Back in the workshop, we added rennet to the fresh milk. It was fascinating to watch it coagulate and separate into solid curds and liquid whey.

4. The Craft: We used traditional white ginger leaves to line our molds, ladling the curds in and waiting for them to set.

The result? Queijo Fresco . This one-day soft, fresh cheese is a staple in local markets and restaurants. If you haven’t tried it yet, it’s best enjoyed as a snack with a side of spicy red pepper paste and a thick slice of fresh bread.

The “Cow to Cup” Experience

Perhaps the most adventurous part of the day was the Cow to Cup Milking Experience . It’s exactly what it sounds like: holding a cup directly under the cow as the farmer fills it with fresh, raw milk.

Having avoided milk for nearly a decade, I wasn’t sure what to expect. The milk was surprisingly warm and foamy—a true “living” food. Interestingly, when I tried a cup of cold raw milk later, it felt thinner and less creamy than the warm version, but every bit as delicious.

A Heart for the Community

Beyond the flower crown workshops and the delicious food, what stayed with me was the spirit of the event. Seeing the island community come together to support a small, holistic farm like Amago reminds you of why this place is so special.

If you’re staying at the Golden Mermaid Villa and want a true taste of island life, I highly recommend checking out Amago’s next event. It’s more than just a farm visit; it’s a connection to the land and the people who tend it.

—
Anthony “Tiger” Liu is an American expat and the operator of Golden Mermaid Villa and Longevity Habit retreat, where he shares a passion for the vibrant culture and nourishing lifestyle of São Miguel.