Horta Praia da Vitoria ferry

Horta Guide

Horta Ferry Port

Far off the coast of Portugal, almost forgotten in a remote stretch of the North Atlantic Ocean, are a smattering of volcanic islands that form a small archipelago known as the Azores. Found at the western edge of this archipelago is the island of Faial; a grassy expanse of rugged hills that plunge into the crater of the region’s stratovolcano heart. The vibrant port city of Horta is found around a small bay on Faial’s eastern coast. This proud coastal city and its sprawling marina are a renowned stop for vessels voyaging across the Atlantic. It’s rich seafaring history is depicted by the series of painted murals daubed onto the walls of the promenade, each a tribute to the ships that have come to harbour at the port. Found beyond the crenelated wall looming over the coast are the whitewashed buildings of the suburbs that rise in tiers upon the foothills. Between them run narrow roads and walkways, some with origins stretching back to the city’s humble 16th Century beginnings as a farming community. One of the most striking remnants from this era is the Church of Santa Bárbara, its black and white façade a neat blend of modern and historic architecture. The ferry terminal in Horta is found on a pier at the northern end of the bay. It is a relatively small building with a limited amount of facilities including an open plan waiting hall, free Wi-Fi and a small car-park for visiting passengers. Although only a few main road routes circle the island, the region is no more than 13-miles tip to tip and it only takes half an hour to drive to the port from the most distant district of Capelo. A bus regularly also whisks passengers across the island from a stop outside the tourist information centre, just a 20-minute walk from the harbour-side. A multitude of ferries currently leave from the port throughout the week. Lines hosted by Atlanticoline hop across the warm, crystalline surface of the ocean to most of the islands in the Azores archipelago. These include short trips to Sao Roque, Praia de Vitoria, Vila de Praia and Velas, as well as longer voyages to the more distant destinations of Lajes, Vila do Porto and Ponta Delgada.

Praia da Vitoria Guide

Praia da Vitoria Ferry Port

Praia da Vitoria is situated on the island of Terceira, found in the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores. The ferry routes departing the port head to the islands neighbouring Terceira, with crossings ranging from around two hours to 17 hours.

What is there to do in Praia da Vitoria?

A small town that relies upon its wonderful landscape to entice tourists, Praia da Vitoria has gone relatively unnoticed among the exponential growth of Portugal’s coastal resorts. Challenging walking trails dominate much of the coastline, providing stunning views of the surrounding water and towering mountainside. If simply walking doesn’t wet the active appetite, rope adventures allow adrenaline junkies the chance to scale the rock formations and climb under the guidance of qualified instructors. To continue the thirst for adventure, many brave the water in a kayak or canoe, evoking an arduous workout, particularly in the summer amid a warm climate. The entire town may exude a vibe that only adheres to the active traveller, yet there is plenty of places that are perfect for whiling away a relaxing few hours. Praia dos Biscoitos is a haven drenched in looking spots and tranquil bays that seemingly act as a forcefield from the stresses of the modern day. Swim amidst the striking mountains before admiring the gorgeous scenery that encompasses Praia da Vitoria – for a sleepy day in the sole company of friends and family – the beautiful mountainside is ideal.

How do you get around Praia da Vitoria?

The pleasant weather and environment is made for a leisurely stroll, especially considering the laid back nature.