Understand

Welcome to Faial, famously known as The Blue Island, one of the nine enchanting islands that form the Azores archipelago in Portugal. This island paradise, home to approximately 15,000 residents, charms its visitors with its breathtaking beauty. Explore the vibrant capital city of Horta, where almost half of the population resides. With an area spanning 67 square miles, Faial is situated 1097 miles away from mainland Portugal in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. This incredible island lies on the edge of the tectonic divide between the North American Plate and the European Plate, making it the westernmost part of Europe. Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery, featuring sandy beaches, lush green hills, and crystal-clear blue ocean views. Witness the island's volcanic origin through its magnificent calderas, craters, cones, lava fields, and natural boiling water springs. The best time to visit Faial and enjoy its warm climate is between June and October, where you can bask in the sun on the golden sandy beaches. Experience the moderate coastal climate, occasionally accompanied by mist, rain, and refreshing high humidity. Come and discover the wonders of Faial, an island that promises a truly mesmerizing and unforgettable adventure.

Get in

To reach the beautiful island of Faial in the Azores, travelers first need to fly into the vibrant city of Ponta Delgada, located on the island of Sao Miguel. From there, a transfer flight with SATA Air Azores will take you to Aeroporto da Horta, your final destination. During tourist season and on special occasions, there is an inter-island ferry that operates between Ponta Delgada and Horta. However, it's important to note that the journey covers a distance of 180 miles in the middle of the vast Atlantic Ocean, so brace yourself for an adventurous and potentially bumpy ride. Additionally, throughout the year, there are constant ferry services between the islands of the Central Group, including Faial, Pico, and Sao Jorge. Specifically, there is hourly service between Horta and Madalena do Pico, allowing you to explore the stunning beauty of these islands at your convenience.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Bacalhau (Codfish)Bacalhau is a staple in Portuguese cuisine, primarily consisting of dried and salted codfish that is rehydrated and prepared in various ways. It's often cooked with potatoes, onions, and olives, as well as other regional ingredients. The dish can be found in numerous variations across the country, such as bacalhau a bras, where it is mixed with eggs and served with fried potato strings, or bacalhau com tomate e cebola, featuring a tomato and onion sauce.

CozidoCozido is a hearty stew made with various meats, including sausage, chorizo, and beef, along with vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and beans. This traditional dish is typically slow-cooked for hours, resulting in a rich and flavorful broth. Cozido is often enjoyed as a comforting meal during colder months, and is particularly popular in the north and center of Portugal.

Pastel de NataPastel de nata, also known as custard tarts, are a beloved sweet treat in Portugal. These petite, golden-brown pastries feature a crisp outer layer of buttery pastry dough, enveloping a warm and smooth egg custard infused with hints of vanilla and cinnamon. They are traditionally served with a dusting of powdered sugar and are best enjoyed slightly warm or at room temperature. Pastel de nata can be found at any time of day, whether as a breakfast pastry, midday snack, or evening dessert.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing