2023 Azores Trip – Sabbatical II – Fajal / Horta

Fajal: City of Horta

My second trip (first trip) to the Azores unfolded in Fajal, with the charming city of Horta as my initial point of exploration. Nestled on the western edge of the island, Horta serves not only as a delightful basecamp but also as a convenient gateway to reach Pico by ferry (see Pico / Madalena  blog entry). The city’s rich history, coupled with its impressive volcanic landscape, adds a fascinating dimension to the Azorean experience.

During my stay, I chose accommodation at the waterfront, in proximity to the marina, which is adorned with colorful murals contributed by sailors from around the globe. Interestingly, the marina’s strategic location on the “canela” (channel), as the locals fondly refer to the strait between Pico and Fajal, provides perfect protection. In the summer, it becomes an ideal stopover for sailors embarking on transatlantic journeys.

As I strolled through the charming streets of Horta, I uncovered a delightful fusion of Portuguese architecture, local shops, and inviting cafes (with a special mention to “Peter’s Bar Sport”). The city breathes a relaxed atmosphere, particularly in the tranquil low season of November, encouraging visitors like me to leisurely absorb the beauty that surrounds them.

A significant part of my exploration led me to embark on a comprehensive island tour, unraveling some of Fajal’s distinctive features. For a detailed account of this adventure, you can find more in my dedicated blog entry of that day tour.

November, while not characterized by the dryness of summer, offers a comfortable climate with temperatures hovering around 20°C, even with the persistently high humidity. In the summer, there is less rainfall, but the humidity lingers in the 80s, accompanied by higher temperatures (this year, there were days reminiscent of the weather in Singapore, meaning pure sweating).

The Monte Da Guia Walking Trail also provides a good overview of Horta and the surrounding area. A viewpoint was also included in the tour, but it is within walking distance of Horta. As it was very windy and there was a constant threat of heavy rain showers, I only did part of it.

Exploring Horta and its surroundings in the quieter season afforded me a more intimate connection with the essence of the Azores, allowing me to appreciate the beauty of the islands at a leisurely pace.