About Faial

Faial is part of the Central Group in the Azores, a Portuguese archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean. The coastline has some beautiful volcanic beaches, whilst the western shoreline has dramatic cliffs plunging into the bright blue ocean. Out on the seas, you can enjoy a wide range of activities like windsurfing, kayaking, diving and whale watching. The inland is dominated by an enormous crater which was the location of the most recent major volcanic activity in the Azores, adding roughly 1 kilometre to the landmass in 1957. You can even traverse the scenic, hilly terrain on mountain bikes or on a guided 4x4 SUV tour. From the vibrant port town of Horta on the southeast coast, you can choose from a wide range of sailings to most islands in the Azores. Given the archipelago is spread sparsely in the North Atlantic, the journey times to each island can vary considerably.

About Graciosa

Graciosa is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve island in the Azores, a Portuguese archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean. Portuguese for ‘graceful’ and nicknamed the ‘white island’, Graciosa is one of the most peaceful and picturesque of the island chain, characterised by rolling hills and whitewashed houses. And with roots in the farming industry, the landscape is primarily wheat fields and vineyards, producing some of the finest wines in the country. Relaxing in natural thermal pools, exploring sulphur caverns and deep sea diving are popular excursions on Graciosa, and the beautiful, main settlement of Santa Cruz has narrow, cobbled streets and a charming central square which are well worth seeing. Graciosa sits in a relatively central position within the Azores, so travelling by ferry is a convenient and popular way to get there. Routes are available from nearly every other island, with ferries docking in Vila da Praia on Graciosa’s east coast.