Location: Faial Island
Top Things to do in Faial Island
Top 8 Things to do in Faial Island, Portugal
Faial Island (Portuguese pronunciation: [fɐˈjaɫ]), also known in English as Fayal, is a Portuguese island of the Central Group (Portuguese: Grupo Central) of the Azores. The Capelinhos Volcano, the westernmost point of the island, might as well be the westernmost point of Europe, if the Monchique Islet, near Flores Island, is considered part of North America, for it sits on the North American Plate.
Restaurants in Faial Island
1. Capelinhos
Overall Ratings
5 based on 304 reviews
The site of the volcanic eruption of 1957-58 on Faial, an island which is dominated by the volcanic cone of Caldeira.
Reviewed By Erzs_bet_S274887 - Budapest, Hungary
The Volcano Interpretation Centre is about 25 km from Horta city’s center (appr. 25 EUR for 4 persons by a taxi - in August 2017).
This is the only volcano which was observed, studied, photographed since it erupted until it became dormant. Now you can safely walk on this volcanic landscape originated by the eruption started in Sept 1957, the whole period lasted for 13 months.
The visitor centre building was constructed underground. Besides the permanent & temporary Exhibitions, it has an auditorium with 3D film shows, and interesting hologram.
2. Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 223 reviews
The Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre (CIVC) has an informative, educational and scientific Mission, having for that purpose, a set of Exhibitions with special emphasis on Capelinhos Volcano eruption and the formation of the archipelago, but also the various kinds of volcanic activity in the world and the history of Azorean Lighthouses. It was appointed by the European Museum Forum, for best European museum in 2012. This building was constructed underground, so it wouldn't interfere with the pre-existing landscape, allowing you to fully enjoy this recent volcanic landscape originated by the eruption of 1957/58. In addition to a number of Exhibitions, the centre has an auditorium and a temporary exhibition of rock and minerals samples. At the end of the visit, go to the lighthouse where you can appreciate this unique scenery.
Reviewed By Mama-Kz - Duxbury, MA
Entering the underground chambers of this museum with the knowledge that it had been hewn out of a volcanic landscape was in itself impressive. But the way the presentation of not only the 1957-58 volcanic eruptions but the origin of the earth itself was doubly enlightening. Through video and Exhibitions the story was told clearly and in an entertaining manner, even with a 3-D movie. Afterward, walking the Star Wars like landscape and a climb to the top of the lighthouse which partially survived the 57-58 eruptions was amazing. This was far and away the best museum experience in the Azores.
3. Caldeira
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 565 reviews
Reviewed By BeirutMoores - Penang Island, Malaysia
An easy drive from Horta (about 25 minutes), with great views along the way, weather permitting. The weather changes very very quickly, and can be very localized. We went twice, once It was cloudy in Horta but clear at the Caldera, and then vice versa and it actually started to hail. If windy the trail is scary because you can be quite close to the edge. If heights scare you you may want to skip the hike in any case.
But do go, and marvel at the hydrangea hedgerows along the way.
4. The Marina of Horta
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 405 reviews
Reviewed By Richard F - Louisville, Kentucky
This marina is beautiful and a great place to see the history of sailor visits from the past. Each time a sailor visits they are encouraged to paint their emblem of something that signifies their boat or something about their visit. There is even a wall with painted tiles from the local children. This was fun to see.
5. Praia do Porto Pim
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 100 reviews
Best beach ever. Come meet Porto Pim and have the best time of your life.
Reviewed By capdellatraveller - Mallorca, Spain
Staying in Horta, the Porto Pim beach is an easy walk.
From the beach, there's a panoramic view of the town. We stayed in July & the weather was a bit blustery so we strolled along the waterfront & found some nice explanatory maps on boards showing the beach, Dabney's house, the aquarium & a couple of view points.
I've posted photos of the boards because there's a lovely walking trail which isn't arduous.
6. Praia do Almoxarife
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 121 reviews
Reviewed By JKD - Scotts Valley CA
a rare beach with sand and easy entry into the water .... and there are facilities for washing and rinsing nearby. There is also a very good restaurant next to the washing facilities (Praya). In October, there seemed to be plenty of parking available; not sure what it is like during the summer
7. Peter Cafe & Scrimshaw Museum
Overall Ratings
4 based on 397 reviews
Reviewed By Lpfetzer - Rhinebeck, New York
Stumbled in here on our first day. The decor is fun, the service was good, the food was yummy. We found out later in the week that this place has quite a story behind it and is indeed doing a great job marketing their merchandise all over the Islands. Very popular stuff Thanks for a memorable meal
8. Horta, Faial, Portugal
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 45 reviews
Reviewed By Byrdie122 - Crawfordville, Florida
Beautiful city to walk and shop. Lots of places to sit and view the harbor. Be sure to visit the marina area and see the painted wall.
