Beautiful view of Molino de Pérez

Molino de Pérez

Montevideo, Uruguay
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Beautiful view of Molino de Pérez

Rising quietly above the leafy banks of Montevideo’s Malvín neighborhood, Molino de Pérez blends centuries-old charm with the rhythms of modern city life. This historical windmill and its peaceful park invite both slow wanderers and history buffs to explore Uruguay’s heritage, just a short distance from busy streets. For anyone seeking local flavor beyond commercial attractions, Molino de Pérez offers a mash-up of past and present: the creak of old wood underfoot, children’s laughter echoing through ancient stone, and leafy trails that pull visitors into another era—if only for a while.

Visiting Info

Currency
Entrance fee
Free
Hours
Opening hours
Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: 2:00 – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 2:00 – 6:00 PM

Contact Information

Location
Address
Molino de Perez, Pasaje Arq. Juan Veltroni, 11400 Montevideo, Departamento de Montevideo, Uruguay

Planning your visit

Molino de Pérez is nestled in a residential part of Montevideo, making it easy to add to a broader city itinerary. The park surrounding the mill appeals to a range of visitors, from young families to curious travelers. Weekends bring lively crowds and local families picnic under shade trees, while weekday mornings stay quieter. The mill itself opens for visits on a limited schedule, and outside those hours, the grounds remain a lovely place for a stroll or picnic. No need for pre-purchased tickets; entry is typically free, though special exhibitions might ask for a small fee. Wear comfortable shoes—the old mill’s stone steps challenge stiff knees, and the park’s walking paths often tempt for a longer ramble.

  • Best time to visit: Spring (September–November) or fall (March–May) for mild weather; mornings for fewer crowds
  • How to get there: Take bus routes 104, 115, or 117 toward Malvín; taxi or rideshare from downtown Montevideo takes about 25 minutes
  • Accessibility: Grounds and park are stroller-friendly; mill interior has steep, narrow stairs—difficult for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility
  • Average visit duration: 1–2 hours, longer if picnicking or joining a guided tour

Must see stuff

Molino de Pérez’s sturdy stone tower marks the heart of the park, but the site’s appeal extends well beyond the mill’s tall sails. Visitors step into a pocket of history where the old grain grinder once powered daily bread for Montevideo’s early settlers. Climbing the interior stairs, guests enter rooms filled with period milling machinery and simple exhibitions that explain bread’s role in local culture. Outside, shaded paths lead to peaceful corners and a tilting wooden bridge, a photographer’s favorite. Across the stream, locals fish or walk dogs, and children play in a small, modern playground—a lively contrast to the centuries-old mill nearby. On some weekends, neighborhood artists display paintings or offer crafts beneath the trees. History mingles gently with daily life here.

  • Key sights: Original 19th-century mill tower, preserved wooden gears and grinding stones, lovely park grounds along Arroyo Malvín stream
  • Unique experiences: Climb the mill tower on open days; stroll across the old wooden footbridge; spot ducks in the stream; join a guided history talk if offered (usually weekends)
  • Photo-worthy locations: The mill’s shadow on the stream at sunset, tree-lined paths, graffiti-adorned walls at the park’s edge
  • Cultural or historical facts: Built in 1840 by merchant Juan María Pérez, the mill served the city’s growing population; today, it is one of the last standing windmills of its kind in Montevideo

Tips for your visit

Weekday mornings usually offer the best chance for quiet reflection at Molino de Pérez, since weekends attract locals for picnics and playtime. Bring bottled water, especially in the summer months—shade is plentiful, but small shops for snacks or drinks are a fair walk away. Photographers should arrive late afternoon to catch long shadows and the golden light on the old stone. Keep in mind, local dog walkers often frequent the green spaces—making for lively people-watching, but watch out if you’re not a fan of friendly pups. The windmill’s interior can feel confining when crowded, so patience helps on busier days. Pay attention to posted hours for the mill; exterior grounds generally stay accessible until dusk. Big groups or young kids should keep close—open stream banks can be slippery after rain.

  • Best times to avoid crowds: Weekday mornings or late afternoons
  • What to bring: Water, snacks, camera, sunblock, comfortable walking shoes, picnic blanket if planning to linger
  • Local etiquette: Respect quiet zones near the stream; keep noise down inside the mill; always dispose of litter responsibly
  • Safety tips: Watch small children near water’s edge; mind uneven paths and slippery grass after rain