Faial Island, Portugal

Faial Island is a Portuguese island in the Central Group of the Azores. Its nearest neighbours, Pico(east across the channel) and San Jorge (northeast across the channel) form an area called the Triangle. Faial Island has also been referred to as the Blue Island due to the large quantity of hydrangeas that bloom during the summer months.

In the 18th century the development of whale hunting brought the early whaling fleets to Horta Port. By 19th century, Horta had become an important sea port, and a stopping point for a large number of yachts crossing the Atlantic.

In 1957 a great volcanic eruption from the "Ilheu dos Capelinhos", about 1 km from the coast, projected large quantities of lava and ash forming an islet that later became connected to Faial island by an isthmus.

Things to see and do

* Cabecão Gordo
* Monte da Guia
* Ponta dos Capilnhos
* Lajnha and Ponta Furada
* Vale de Falmengos
* Scrimshaw Museum
* Port of Horta

General Information

Cruise Season – Feb - Dec
Currency – Euro (€)
Time – GMT plus 0
Language - Portuguese
Land area – 173 km2
Population – 14,875
Electricity - 2 pin Round pins European style
International Country Telephone Code - +351

Port location – The port is located in the centre of town

Transport links
Madeira Airport 12kms
Porto Santo Airport 56km
Daily ferry service between the islands of the Azores
Rental car services available