Faial is located in the central group of the Azores archipelago, and is part of the so-called “triangle islands”, together with São Jorge and Pico, separated by the Faial Channel, a narrow arm of the sea with about 8 km.
The island occupies an area of about 172 km2, with a length of 21 km and a maximum width of 14 km. It was discovered in 1427 and colonized in 1432 by many Flanders natives. It would receive the name of Faial because there are many beeches (faia) here. But no island can be so proud of such immense masses of hydrangeas, in different shades of blue, that frame the houses, separate the fields, and embroider the roads, justifying the title of “Blue Island”.
From the 17th century onwards, Faial underwent a profound development, becoming an important trading post, due to its geographical position as a safe port between Europe and the Americas. More recently, it was the hub of communications between continents and today is an obligatory point of reference for international yachting.
The climate is temperate and mild, with low thermal amplitudes. The highest temperatures are recorded in August and the lowest in February. The average temperatures by seasons are as follows: spring 16ºC (60ºF), summer 21ºC (70ºF).
Ribeira das Cabras viewpoint
From this viewpoint, you can see the alignment of the cones of the Capelo Peninsula, from Caldeira to Capelinhos and Fajã da Praia do Norte.
GPS coordinates38.6082752 | 38.6082752
Caldeira
Located in the central part of the island, it has a diameter of about 2 kilometers and an average depth of 400 meters, and is covered by exuberant Laurissilva vegetation.
GPS coordinates38.5799049 | 38.5799049
Capelinhos Volcano
Inserted in the Capelo volcanic complex, it was the last active volcano on Faial (1957/58). The Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Center, skillfully integrated into the landscape, has an informative, didactic and scientific character.
GPS coordinates38.6014429 | 38.6014429
Castelo Branco Hill
A magnificent geological formation of extreme importance for the nesting of some seabirds, namely the Cory’s Shearwater. In front of the Varadouro bathing area.
GPS coordinates38.5312087 | 38.5312087
Ribeirinha Viewpoint - Pedras Negras
It offers one of the most spectacular views over the so-called Triângulo Islands – Faial, Pico and São Jorge – and, on clear days, over Graciosa Island.
GPS coordinates38.5441557 | 38.5441557
Guia Hill
Volcanic cone overlooking Porto Pim Bay and the city of Horta. Inserted in the Protected Landscape Area of Monte da Guia.
GPS coordinates38.5204042 | 38.5204042
Espalamaca - Viewpoint of N. Sª da Conceição
It is the privileged place to observe the City of Horta and Praia do Almoxarife. Excellent view of the islands of Pico, São Jorge and Graciosa.
GPS coordinates38.5478668 | 38.5478668
Horta City
Horta is a historic and cosmopolitan city, its Bay is part of the club of the Most Beautiful in the World.
GPS coordinates38.5346787 | 38.5346787
Casas D´arramada
CASAS D’ARRAMADA – VILLAGE TOURISM is a Rural Tourism enterprise in the quality of Village Tourism.
GPS coordinates38.6174416 | 38.6174416
