Azores, the European Oasis – Part 3

The island where you cannot walk without meeting several herds of cows, whether in the middle of the greatest storm or on a beautiful sunny day. We were accommodated in a small stone, old fashioned cottage that was next to the mighty ocean. The view of the endless ocean was hiding behind two small, but beautiful islands. The ocean was showing its magnificent power by throwing the waves over small cliffs in front of our little house. Every morning, after a walk at dawn I was thinking about traveling around the island and every time we went to discover some new part. It is a small island, but full of attractions. Although the majority of the island is full of volcanic stones that fence the pastures, you never get enough of this view. Square, rectangular and oval, pastures of all possible forms, full of cattle, are a real eye-catcher. Lively green growing lush grass and small flowers, moss on the stone fences, and most often black and white cows invite visitors to various vantage points. 

 

 

In the north western part of the island extends a small, but densely overgrown forest that resembles a jungle. Not far away on the coast a small natural pool, protected with stones is located. A bunch of bare rocks protect the bravest upon their swimming adventures in the middle of December. Mighty waves are constantly trying to show their dominance over the rocks. They are rising over several meters high into the air and creating mesmerizing sounds. The seemingly useless patch of rocks obscures visitors from the views and allows them to just relax and sunbathe in the warm sun. Not far away waves are crashing under the mighty cliffs. It is a small town along the coast with a colourful Chapel of the Holy Spirit, which greatly stands out. It is part of the rich architectural heritage, which has not been destroyed in the devastating earthquake in 1980. The capital of Terceira and also the oldest city in the Azores, Angra do Heroismo, has a small but beautiful main square and the walls of the castle, which was once a royal prison. The city is a historical capital of the Azores and is classified as a UNESCO cultural heritage. Angra do Heroismo also has one of the best public libraries in Portugal, and it preserves some important art collections. The island hides its beauty also in its interior. The underground volcanic caves, which are the formations left behind by lava are perfect for the visitors. Caves do not have stalactites, but they have volcanic tunnels and give tourists the opportunity to see the interior of volcanoes. 

 

 

During the summer months, the biggest party on the island is bullfighting. Bullfights are organized several times a week. Then a lot of people gather to see how brave run before the bull, and often narrowly escape his sharp horns. Quite a lot of time, of course, also accidents occur.

A volcanic hill with underlying pastures, lakes, orange and banana plantations, blue ocean in the distance, and a view of the adjacent islands of Ilha to Faial and Sao Jorge. In such a small place there are so many interesting and diverse attractions. Ilha do Pico has made the most special impression on us. The mere sight of the highest Portuguese summit called Pico is so great that it has to be seen. With its 2351 meters, the mighty mountain rises above the rest of the island. Top Pico is often shrouded in clouds, so it sometimes depends on luck to see him at all. It is possible to climb to the very top, which starts at 1,200 meters altitude. The trail is not difficult, but the problem is the weather, which is rapidly changing. Therefore, it often happens that someone gets lost. During the winter months, the top is covered in snow, which makes the climb harder. Anyone who wants to get to climb it receives a GPS device at the starting point. If desired, you can also hire a guide whose services cost €100. But it is worth it. Those who have experienced a sunrise or sunset on the top of the mountain like to say that it is something really wonderful.

 

 

While in high places you need not only a thick jacket, but also a hat and gloves, the areas around the see are warm and even suitable for swimming. Roads around the island are feared by some because there is no lack of steep volcanic slopes. While the main roads are neat, broad and transparent, the secondary ones can be overgrown with moss, which requires caution, as they are slippery. In addition, they are narrow and not so well maintained, and also full of herds of cows. 

 

 

As it is commonly known, where there are volcanoes, there are also caves. Thus, for cavers and tourists the Ilha do Pico is known for its caves. Island is also known for its black soil, which was recognized by the famous Portuguese poet that called it the Ilha Preta (Black Island). The black soil is most important in the island’s wine industry. Pizza, as the area with thousands of large squares and dark stones protecting the vineyards is called, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The stone fences are protecting the vine against strong sea winds and at the same time absorb the sun's rays, thereby heating the grapes and enabling them to be ripe sooner.

 

A small island that can be reached also by ferry from the neighbouring island of Ilha do Pico. It is the last point in Europe, because the other two islands already lie on the American tectonic plate. Driving with ferry from Ilha do Pico takes only half an hour. Island together with its neighbouring islands, Pico Island and Sao Jorge comprises the area known as Triângulo (the triangle). Ilha do Faial is famous for its blue hydrangeas, inspiring the Portuguese poet Raul Brandão to call it the Blue Island. As in all the other volcanic islands also here the highest point is of an extinct volcano called Cabeço Gordo. At the most western point of the island there is a barren landscape Capelinhos, a larger volcanic complex or lava field. Volcanic eruptions in the area were so strong and lasted for several months between 1957 and 1958, they had to evacuate about 2,000 people. Towards the end of 1958 the earth movement has slowed but the area remained bare to this day.