Faial Island
Faial Island (the blue island) is part of the Azores central group. It is located about 66 miles from Terceira, 4.5 miles from Pico and 11 miles from S. Jorge. The surface area of Faial Island is approximately 67 square miles (173 km2). The island has about 15,000 inhabitants and its main municipal seat is located in the city of Horta. Different colours of blue decorate the houses and divide the fields and line the roadsides giving Faial the name “Blue Island”.
In the 18th century the development of whaling brought the early whaling fleets to Horta. By the 19th century Horta had become an important sea port and a stopping point for a large number of yachts crossing the Atlantic.
In 1957 a great volcanic eruption from the “Ilheu dos Capelinhos”, about 1 km from the coast, projected large quantities of lava and ash forming an islet that later became connected to Faial island by an isthmus.
The green circle of a volcanic cone at the top of a hill; white houses in towns mirrored on the ocean; the masts of sailing boats sailing from all over the world; the ochre walls of a fortress that has witnessed countless naval battles; the unforgettable sight of sunrise with the island of Pico in the background; the quiet inlets with beaches of soft sand; the hydrangeas standing out against the landscape framing houses and roads; all this contributes to the beauty, aesthetic, and cultural depth of the “Blue Island”.
Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions about Faial island
Faial island is a beautiful island in the Azores archipelago. Here are the top 10 frequently asked questions about Faial island along with their answers:
1. Where is Faial island located?
Faial is one of the nine islands in the Azores archipelago, located in the North Atlantic Ocean. It is part of Portugal.
2. What are the must-see attractions on Faial island?
Some of the must-see attractions on Faial island include the Caldeira, Capelinhos Volcano, Horta Marina, Peter’s Cafe Sport, and the Espalamaca viewpoint.
3. How do I get to Faial island?
You can reach Faial island by flying into Horta Airport (HOR), which has connections to other islands in the Azores and mainland Portugal. You can also take a ferry from other islands in the Azores.
4. What is the best time to visit Faial island?
The best time to visit Faial island is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and dry. However, the island is beautiful year-round.
5. What outdoor activities can I do on Faial island?
Faial island offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, whale watching, diving, and exploring the volcanic landscape.
6. Are there any famous festivals on Faial island?
Yes, Faial island is known for its annual Sea Week (Semana do Mar) festival, which celebrates the island’s connection to the sea with boat races, concerts, and other events.
7. Is Faial island a good destination for whale watching?
Yes, Faial island is renowned for its whale watching opportunities, particularly for spotting sperm whales and other species in the waters around the island.
8. What is the cuisine like on Faial island?
The cuisine on Faial island features fresh seafood, including fish, octopus, and limpets, as well as local cheeses and wines.
9. Can I hike on Faial island?
Yes, Faial island offers a variety of hiking trails, including the Capelinhos Volcano trail and the Caldeira loop trail, which provide stunning views of the island’s landscapes.
10. Are there accommodations available on Faial island?
Yes, Faial island offers a range of accommodations including hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals in Horta and other areas of the island, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Top 10 Things to do when visiting Faial Island
Here are the top 10 things to do when visiting Faial Island in the Azores:
1. Visit the Caldeira
Explore the massive volcanic crater known as the Caldeira, which offers stunning views of the island and surrounding landscapes.
2. Explore Capelinhos Volcano
Visit the Capelinhos Volcano and its Interpretation Center to learn about the volcanic eruption that dramatically changed the island’s landscape in the 1950s.
3. Hike the Faial Caldera
Take a hike around the Faial Caldera, a nature reserve with diverse flora and fauna, offering beautiful views of the island.
4. Visit Horta Marina
Explore the charming town of Horta and its marina, known for its colorful murals, lively atmosphere, and connection to the sailing community.
5. Experience Peter’s Cafe Sport
Visit Peter’s Cafe Sport, a historic bar and meeting place for sailors from around the world, known for its maritime memorabilia and lively ambiance.
6. Go on a Whale Watching Tour
Take a whale watching tour from Faial Island to see majestic marine mammals such as sperm whales, dolphins, and more in their natural habitat.
7. Relax at Varadouro
Enjoy a relaxing day at Varadouro, a natural swimming area with volcanic rock pools and stunning ocean views.
8. Visit the Espalamaca Viewpoint
Head to the Espalamaca viewpoint for panoramic views of Horta, Pico Island, and the surrounding ocean.
9. Explore the Botanical Garden of Faial
Discover the diverse plant species at the Botanical Garden of Faial, which showcases the Azores’ unique flora in a beautiful setting.
10. Try Local Cuisine
Taste the delicious local cuisine of Faial, including fresh seafood dishes, traditional stews, and local cheeses, paired with Azorean wines for a true culinary experience.to do when visiting Flores Island