I spent all day here walking up and down the volcanic landscape, checking out the museum and catching the end of day’s light from the highest point.
Walking from Horta to the lighthouse pictured below was a fantastic achievement. I celebrated by giving my complete and undivided attention to my surroundings and the Atlantic beyond.
Photos taken mid November, 2019.
Volcanic cone warping into the blue sky
The Capelinhos lighthouse withstood the eruption of 1957-58 and now stands as a landmark of the Island of Faial.
“At this whale lookout wreckage, destroyed by the eruption of the volcano, it was seen the first volcanic manifestations of the Capelinhos. On September 27, at about seven o’clock in the morning, the whale watcher on duty Mr Jose Soares da Cunha observed at less than 1km away on the sea, at least four points that hurled effervescent volcanic rocks and water vapour. It was the beginning of a submarine volcano that lasted 13 months until it stopped at 24 October of 1958. Faial Island lost about 35% of its population, mostly to the US and Canada and also opened a new page in the understanding this this type of volcanic activity.”Farol do Vulcão dos Capelinhos Most of the surrounding landscape is barren with the exception of shrubs and small flowers. Nature always finds a way. Two birds prepare for flight The last photo I took before hiking back
Check out the previous blog posts of my backpacking trip around Faial Island!
From Praia Do Almoxarife I hiked 10.6km(6.5 miles) to Salão. If you plan on backpacking Faial I recommend stopping here. I stayed at the campsite which had fireplace cabana and a direct path to a natural swimming pool. This set of photos is part of a larger collection named Por Caminho that I created during my backpacking … Continue reading Por Caminho: Salão, Cedros, and The Road to Praia do Norte
The hike from Salão to Praia do Norte proved to be the hardest part of my week long trip around Faial Island. The road to Praia do Norte inclined steadily with each curve. Though it helped me in the long run, trekking uphill in the cold, grey hills was challenging. The worst part by far … Continue reading Praia Do Norte & Capelo Photo Collection
If you plan on backpacking Faial I recommend stopping here. I stayed at the campsite which had fireplace cabana and a direct path to a natural swimming pool.
This set of photos is part of a larger collection named Por Caminho that I created during my backpacking trip around Faial Island.
Photos taken mid November, 2019
I reached Ribeirinha mid-day with enough sunlight and energy to continue hiking towards SalãoThe Islands in the distance from left to right are São Jorge and Pico One thing I noted on my backpacking trip were how colourful and vibrant some of the houses were. From Horta to Salão- 15.7 km or 9.7 miles
Parque de Campismo (campsite) Fireplace Cabana at Salão’s camp site (parque de campismo.) Although I was here alone in November, I could imagine sitting around the fire with friends during the summer. It’s a perfect location day and night. The boardwalk leading down to the natural swimming pool São Jorge in the distance.
I woke up the next morning to wind dashing against my tent. Water droplets dotted the roof and one by one scurried off the side. After a few minutes more laying there watching the raindrops race each other, a warm glow cloaked the tent. I unzipped the door, flung my feet onto the wet grass, and laid there a while longer.
Nothing ever lasts. Grey clouds were gathering in the distance. I packed up camp and headed out. As soon as I turned onto the main road it started to rain. Luckily, there was a Casa do Povo which is a sort of gathering hall/cafe for locals. I waited out the rain there, having breakfast and making small talk with the older gentleman behind the bar. When the clouds cleared, I took my chances.
Xavier Cafe- Modern restaurant and cafe in Cedros where I stopped for a meia de leite I took this photo right outside Ribeira Funda, 9.7 km (6miles) away from Salão. Fortunately for me, it didn’t end up raining even though the entire day was dark and cold. What was challenging however, was the slight incline of the roads. Each turn seemed to be steeper than the last This actually worked in my favour since it increased my body temperature.3 miles outFrom Horta to Praia do Norte: 29 km (18 miles)
There wasn’t much to look at as I passed Ribeira Funda and not three miles away was the next major town: Praia Do Norte.
That’s where I would set up camp.
I was determined to make it there.
In the distance I could see large mountains hiding behind a screen of mist. I knew I just had to keep walking and I’d eventually make it there.
Praia do Almoxarife was the first place I camped at after arriving in Faial.
I got there an hour or two before sunset which proved to be an ideal time.
When I made it to the beach I only saw a few other people, but for the most part I had it all to myself.
In the small amount of time I spent there I met a few really nice people who were just as enthusiastic about the view as I was.
By the time I left the only thought I had was that I have to come back in the summer.
This set of photos is part of a larger collection named Por Caminho that I created during my backpacking trip around Faial Island.
Photos taken mid November, 2019
This is Antonio. He showed me around his town and let me put my bag in his garage while I went out for food. He was really welcoming and enthusiastic to share his knowledge about his home. Obrigado Antonio, até proxima.
Passionfruit farm closed for the season.
The Praia do Almoxarife campsite is only open during the summer season when tourism is at its highest. I didn’t know that before I arrived so I set up tent right outside the campsite.
The black-sand beach is right across the main road. At night all you can hear is the wind and the ocean’s waves crashing against the rocks. I imagine during the summer this place Is absolutely wonderful.
I’ll be back.
I arrived at Praia do Almoxarife by the beginning of sunset when the golden light starts fading into oranges and yellows. The first thing I did was set up camp and then I crossed the street to witness day’s end from the black sand. There were only a few other people there besides me. On top of the wall a few tourists posed for photos, a woman walked her dog, and a couple cuddled and kissed on a blanket. I snapped a few photos, grabbed a meia de leite and let the magnificence of Pico gently fall into night.
I took this photo the next morning before leaving to the next town. Pico mountain hides behind sunrise clouds.
If you’re going to Horta it’s well worth strolling through the marina. A simple walk will open your eyes to the history and cultural significance of Europe’s westernmost city.
For decades sailors have painted their murals around the marina.
According to old-sailor superstition, painting your mural or logo on the breakwater gives divine protection from harsh conditions at sea!
I took my time as I walked down the marina – a slow pace – admiring the array of creativity each mural displayed. There were a few murals I stopped to look at longer than others. Either I’d been to where they were from, or I had some sort of artistic connection to the symbols and colors they used.
What interested me most was how all the murals weren’t in any chronological or divided-by-country order. Fresh murals from 2019 were right next to the faded outlines from decades ago, and all the countries shared one surface. They all complimented one another by their mutual love of the sea. The ocean is what brought all these nations together to this one port in Horta, Faial.
L’oiseau de passage- The bird of passage Kairos- An Ancient Greek word meaning the right, critical or opportune moment. Alma de sal- Soul of salt Helios- Ancient Greek god and personification of the SunThe Ocean StateMontanha do Pico<3 If you speak French, I’d love for you to translate this message for me. Google translate doesn’t cut it. Please and thank you! Remembering my Colombia summer 2018
The first time I went to Horta I met a man with heavy-callused hands who told me stories about master mariners from Faial Island.
The hardships those sea-men endured are what make this place so enjoyable, he told me. It’s through their sacrifice Horta now strives.
Today Horta stands as a metropolitan-port city that people visit from all over the world and it’s literally written on the marina walls.
A Brief History Lesson About Horta
The history of Horta began when the first migrants from southern Portugal discovered the central group of the Azores.
Although most of the settlers were from mainland Portugal, a Flemish aristocrat in the late 1400’s, named Josse van Huerter, brought in merchants, tradesmen, and artisans to help develop Horta’s economy and culture.
Fun fact: The name “Horta” comes from a transliteration of Jose van Huerter’s name.
Before gaining international importance through transatlantic trading routes, the people of Horta faced many challenges and setbacks that you can read about here. Over time, commerce in the whaling industry boomed and exports on oranges and local wine stabilised the economy.
In more recent history, Horta’s harbour has become a popular destination not only for sailors and yachtsmen, but also travellers from all over the world seeking adventure, culture, and history.
What To Do in Horta
Nowadays if you’re traveling in the Azores, Horta is a must see destination. Besides the metropolitan feel of the town’s centre, there’s some great places to check out while you’re there.
1. The Historical Marina
Check out my photo blog to get a closer look at the creative murals sailors paint in Horta!
If you’re going to Horta it’s well worth strolling through the colourful and historical marina.
Today it’s internationally recognised and acts as a linking point for yachtsmen and regattas.
For decades sailors have painted their murals on the marina’s breakwater.
According to old-sailor superstition, painting your mural or logo on the breakwater gives divine protection from harsh conditions at sea!
2. Peter’s Sport Cafe & Scrimshaw Museum
The Scrimshaw Museum is located above the restaurant and bar
After strolling through the marina check out Peter’s Sport Cafe.
This place is ideal for a light lunch and sunset drinks. The best part about it is the atmosphere inside. All the memorabilia gives a nostalgic, yet hip vibe.
During the summer you’ll hear Portuguese, English, French, German and Spanish all being spoken over a cold glass of gin & tonic.
Above the restaurant the Scrimshaw Museum is one of a kind. If you appreciate artwork and history, you’ll thoroughly enjoy the small but exceptional exhibit.
A guide works to tell the local history and answer any questions you have!
The entrance fee is around 3.00 euros.
3. Porto Pim Beach & Cafe
I took this photo in November when tourism is slow
Porto Pim Beach, or locally known as Praia do Porto Pim, is one of the few beaches on Faial Island.
There are various cafes and restaurants nearby at your convenience.
This is an awesome spot to wind down at the end of the day with family and friends. The sunsets here are incredible!
4. Miradouro de Nossa Senhora da Conceição
The word “miradouro” literally translates to “golden sight.” These golden sights are scattered throughout the Azores by the hundreds.
Miradouro de Senhora da Conceição is located above Horta with a spectacular view of the entire city.
On clear days you can view ships crossing the channel between Faial and Pico with Portugals highest point, Pico Mountain, rising tall into the blue sky.
For religious reference, locals come here to pray and give thanks. “Nossa Senhora da Conceição” translates to “Our lady of conception” referring to the Virgin Marry.
5. Botanical Gardens
The botanical gardens (Jardin Botânico do Faial) are located a few kilometres away in the neighbouring town of Flamengos.
These gardens are for nature lovers and anyone interested in learning more about the endemic species of the Azores.
Here you’ll find evergreen bushes filled with Azorean hollies and blueberries, orange trees and blooming heathers. During the summer you’ll be surprised how vibrant the colours appear under the sunlight.
All across the Azores the mission of conservation groups are to protect the natural flora and promote scientific research and environmental awareness.
“When visiting this Garden, the visitors can get to know the rarest plants in the Azores, the traditional crops, a beautiful orchidarium, a collection of medicinal and aromatic plants, as well as the main invasive plants.”
6. Semana Do Mar
Semana do Mar or, “Sea week” is a music & arts festival set on the first week of August in Horta, Faial. People from the eight other islands gather here to enjoy concerts, art displays, traditional dances, and local food.
Island of Faial in the distance/ Photo taken at the Madalena marina
Everyone who lives in the Azores looks forward to the summer festivals since the winter season is terribly long and slow. It’s their time to have fun and let loose!
July and August are the ideal months for you to visit the Azores and if you’re here during the Festival weeks you must check it out!
The Semana do Mar 2020 festival is already being organised. Check it out here if you have plans on visiting the Azores this summer!
Best Restaurants in Horta
No travel guide is complete without a food section. Here are some of my favourite restaurants in Horta that I know you’ll enjoy as well.
Restaurante Atletico
Restaurante Atletico was recommended to me various times during my stay in Horta. Now, I’m extending that recommendation to you.
To see photos of their food, checkout their Facebook page and Yelp
The menu has a wide variety of fresh seafood, barbecue and local cuisine with a European-mediterranean touch.
I ordered the grilled limpets ( lapas grehladas) with garlic-butter sauce. It was scrumptious.
For my main meal I ordered the filet mignon that was cooked to culinary perfection. Besides one other restaurant here on Pico Island I haven’t had a steak that comes close.
Once you eat here, you’ll probably end up coming back at least one more time before your vacation ends.
Pizzaria California
This is the pizza joint to go to if you’re staying in Horta.
It’s simple, the pizza is delicious.
Do you know how back home you have that one favourite pizza place you go to anytime you crave pizza? Well among Horta’s locals, this is it.
They also serve hamburgers, sandwiches and vegetarian alternatives.
Cafe Volga
Cafe Volga is an awesome little place where you can get good food at a low price.
It’s located right in the centre of town and alot of people come here to socialise, watch futebol, and dink café.
I ordered the bistec, A fried egg atop a reasonable-sized steak with a side of french fries, rice, and vegetables for only 6 euros.
This place is perfect if you’re on a budget and still want to eat good like the locals do.
Padaria Popular
Padaria Popular is a bakery and cafe located in the busiest part of Horta. This place is celebrating 40 years as an establishment.
No business stays around that long without doing something right. The environment alone is inviting with a white and blue color scheme representative of Faial island’s nick name “Ilha Azul” or “Blue island.”
The bakers work morning and night to prepare and serve fresh bread, pastries and sandwiches to their customers. I stumbled upon them on my last visit to Horta and I thoroughly enjoyed sitting down drinking a “meia de leite” (an expresso with milk in a larger mug) and a chocolate croissant.
Padaria Popular is a perfect place to grab a quick breakfast, an afternoon coffee or pick up a cake for the celebration.
Where to Stay?
When you come to Horta there are many options for you to choose from.
Your stay in Horta depends on three things:
Your budget.
Your comfort preferences.
What you want in a travel experience.
If you’re traveling to Horta on a budget, no worries.
If I were you, I would check out Booking.com for the best prices. However, I stayed at Hotel São Francisco for like 25 euros which included breakfast. The staff were friendly and I met some nice people who were staying there as well.
If comfort is the deciding factor and you don’t need to worry so much about your budget, I would check out some of Horta’s finest hotels like Azores Faial Garden Resort Hotel. You’ll be treated to the great views of Horta, the ocean, and Pico Island in the distance. It has a good-sized pool, a work-out room, and sauna for those of you wanting to keep In shape while you’re eating all the delicious food.
For an optimal travel experience I always recommend to my friends to either stay at a local’s home or the nearest hostel.
Unless your accustomed to hostel life, I think it’s a great option to save money, meet like-minded travellers and stay in the heart of the city. On the other hand, if you’ve been there done that, I would tell you to stay at a local resident’s home. This mode of traveling allows for complete immersion and, if you connect well with your host, you get the added benefit of that person’s knowledge and recommendations.
Let me know in the comments, or shoot me an email if you have any further comments and questions about Horta, or the Azores in general. I’m happy to help!
The Q Perspective 