Faial like the other islands has its own uniqueness. Part of the central island group, it is dominated by its central volcanic mountain peak, home to the spectacular caldeira, which from its summit affords views of Faial island and its immediate neighbors (Pico, Sao Jorge, Graciosa).
Faial is home to the most recent (1957) and dramatic volcanic activity that has affected the islands in recent times, creating 2km of new land; a land of great contrast to its older surroundings, and on walking upon displays the ultimate power of the planet within.
Together with the natural forces that have shaped this landscape comes a land,
rich in flora and fauna, which is particularly rich in color, with the island turning into a sea of blues when the hydrangea bushes flower in the summer months, and a constant hint of mint in the air in the island's interior, where this herb grows along road sides and in fields.
Quiet inlets with beaches of soft black sand can be found close to Horta while elsewhere you will find beautiful natural swimming pools, which are perfect for snorkeling and exploring the marine life close by.
Faial is also famed for its harbour and marina in Horta, which has to be the most unique and colourful in the world. Thousands of yachts and boats of all sizes use Faial as a stop-over on their Atlantic crossing, stocking up on provisions and seeing to necessary repairs. It is tradition for every boat crew coming into Horta Harbour to mark its visit with a painting in the marina. Explore the harbour and you will see some fine art work, slowly weathering away on every inch of wall, road and path.
From the harbour, whale-watching, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, trips to the neighboring islands of Pico and Sao Jorge can all be booked. If you are lucky you might even be able to sail on a whaling boat.
For the active adventurer, Faial should be explored by bicycle/scooter and by foot. One of our favorite days in Faial was a grand tour of the island by scooter, which included the Caldeira, walking on land only 50 years old, and swimming/snorkeling in the sea. Read more about our Faial adventure. For more information on Faial see the Faial facts and Stats
Together with the natural forces that have shaped this landscape comes a land,
rich in flora and fauna, which is particularly rich in color, with the island turning into a sea of blues when the hydrangea bushes flower in the summer months, and a constant hint of mint in the air in the island's interior, where this herb grows along road sides and in fields.Quiet inlets with beaches of soft black sand can be found close to Horta while elsewhere you will find beautiful natural swimming pools, which are perfect for snorkeling and exploring the marine life close by.
Faial is also famed for its harbour and marina in Horta, which has to be the most unique and colourful in the world. Thousands of yachts and boats of all sizes use Faial as a stop-over on their Atlantic crossing, stocking up on provisions and seeing to necessary repairs. It is tradition for every boat crew coming into Horta Harbour to mark its visit with a painting in the marina. Explore the harbour and you will see some fine art work, slowly weathering away on every inch of wall, road and path. From the harbour, whale-watching, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, trips to the neighboring islands of Pico and Sao Jorge can all be booked. If you are lucky you might even be able to sail on a whaling boat.
For the active adventurer, Faial should be explored by bicycle/scooter and by foot. One of our favorite days in Faial was a grand tour of the island by scooter, which included the Caldeira, walking on land only 50 years old, and swimming/snorkeling in the sea. Read more about our Faial adventure. For more information on Faial see the Faial facts and Stats
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