We have been in Horta now for a a few days. Originally at anchor but now we have moved alongside on the harbour wall. We have explored the town and then hired a car for a couple of days allowing us to range far and wide. I have been diving once, my first not tropical dive. I have been spoilt. Faial is different from Flores more mellow, less dramatic, fewer flowers but the effect is stilling impressive and very beautiful. Were the flowers on Flores are ‘in your face’ the displays on Faial and less plentiful and more subtle.

 

The island has a population of about 15,000, three times that of Flores about the same land area. It is very rural with endless fields of pasture for diary cattle. The island comprises primarily a single ancient volcanic peak referred to as the Calderia (approx 1000m) centrally located with sides sloping gently to the sea and to sea cliffs. On the most western tip is the cone of the most recent volcano Capelinhos which rose out of the sea in 1957 with spectacular effect. No one was killed but it prompted a mass exodus from Faial and from the other islands. The USA and Canada opened their doors to the Azoreans and approximately 150,000 left for a new life.

 

Horta itself is  very peaceful place as is the whole island. Lots of attractive buildings, cobbled streets and decorative pavements.

 

Main Square Horta

 

 

Street Scene, Horta

 

 

One of the Many Local Churches

 

Harbour Scene

 

Harbour Art and RT at Anchor

 

Harbour Art Works by Passing Yachties

 

Edge of Town Horta

 

Pavement Mosaic

 

Street Scene Horta

 

Edge of Horta

 

Impressive ‘Pineapple’ Tree

 

Pineapple Tree Arty

 

And More

 

More Pavements

 

Porto Pim, Horta

 

 

 

Getting Ready to Flip over and in