Faial is known as the "Blue Island" due to the numerous 'hedges' hydrangeas. Faial is one of the most beautiful islands of Portugal and a mandatory stopping point for any trip to the Azores. Its position in the North Atlantic and the existence of an excellent port, sheltered from the strong tides that surround the island, made the trade and whaling ships Americans come here to refuel, taking a point of the island economy based on agriculture, livestock, dairy, fishing and trade.

WHY GO

The natural beauty of its landscapes.

ORIENTATION

Faial Island is situated in the extreme west of the Central Group of the Azores archipelago, separated from Pico Island by a narrow strait with a 8.3 km wide, known as channel Faial. The island is dominated by the Caldera, a huge volcanic crater with a diameter of about 2 km and a depth of 400 meters. The distance to its neighboring islands is 7 miles from Pico, 19 miles from Sao Jorge, Graciosa of 85 km and 124 km from the Third.

The biggest attraction of Faial is certainly its capital, the charming town of Horta is, with its famous Marina and its rich architectural heritage, probably the city's liveliest and most cosmopolitan of the islands. Of the main attraction points out:

Horta Marina: Located in the beautiful city of Horta, is a reference point for all who come here. Here are yachtsmen from around the world, crossing the Atlantic in search of adventure and where they leave their paintings on the walls and floor of the Marina, witnesses of its passage. This is because according to legend, who here does not leave its mark not reach their destination.

Guia Hill: Belvedere with beautiful panorama to the city of Horta, the beach of Porto Pim and coast to the tip of Castelo Branco and the island of Pico. This zone is considered protected landscape because of its beautiful landscape and unique wildlife in this region.

Espalamaca: Another of the viewpoints overlooking the city of Horta, beyond the city, harbor and Marina, here you can also admire the islands of Pico and S. Jorge.

Boiler: crater about 400 meters deep and 2 km wide, is an obligatory place to visit. It is your background in a beautiful lagoon surrounded by blue hydrangeas, beech, juniper, ferns, etc.. It is classified as a nature reserve.

Horta Museum: Located in the city of Horta, presents a rich collection of works from fig tree pith of the most renowned artisans of the island. Art expression, characteristic of the island referred to as obligatory place to visit for an interesting cultural tour.


WHEN TO GO

Any time of year is good to visit the Azores. The climate is temperate oceanic, with mean annual air temperatures ranging between 13 º C in winter and 22 ° C in summer, with frequent gales and a relative humidity on average above 79%.

HOW TO GET THERE

The island is served by Horta Airport, with regular air connections to the other islands and the outer archipelago. There are regular boat links between the various islands.

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