Horta Ponta Delgada 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.

Ponta Delgada Guide

What is there to do in Ponta Delgada?

The Azores are a symbol of beauty lying in the North Atlantic Ocean, and Ponta Delgada embodies all that is desirable about the volcanic island group. Much like many regions of a small island, Ponta Delgada exudes a natural allure that sparks a rejuvenatingly fresh and clean energy around the glorious landscape. The church at the top of the hill excites even the most ardent atheist; the architecture showcases the religious history of the island, and the views of Ponta Delgada are breathtaking from the apex of the hill. The glorious views aren’t just exclusive to the church hill, whole days can be spent exploring the stunning scenery that decorates the land. The main town is slightly more vibrant than the surrounding hillside, though it is still a place where many come to escape from the stresses of everyday life. Modern buildings are subtly introduced amid the historical landmarks, and to embark on a thorough tour of the city centre, many companies supply a tour guide for a reasonable price.

How do visitors get around Ponta Delgada?

Large travel companies offer transport to and from the region, but to get around the town there are many small mini buses in operation. The buses aren’t always necessary, and it is more than possible to comfortably stroll around most of the centre.