Faial: The Hidden Blue Paradise Where Volcanic Drama Meets Atlantic Charm
In the middle of the Atlantic Ocean lies a volcanic jewel that many travelers overlook. Faial Island—nicknamed the “Blue Island” for its stunning hydrangeas that paint the landscape in vibrant azure hues during summer—offers a rare combination of dramatic geology and seafaring culture that rivals more famous destinations like Norway’s Lofoten Islands, but with a fraction of the crowds.
A volcanic wonderland that’s still evolving
Unlike many volcanic destinations worldwide, Faial gives visitors the chance to witness relatively recent geological history. The island’s western tip features the Capelinhos Volcano, which dramatically erupted in 1957-58, adding new land to the island and creating what locals call a “moonscape” of ash and lava formations.
“When you stand at Capelinhos, you’re literally walking on some of Europe’s youngest land,” explains Manuel Serpa, a local guide. “The lighthouse that once stood at the coast now sits partially buried by volcanic debris—a powerful reminder of nature’s force.”
The massive crater that takes your breath away
The island’s crown jewel is the Caldeira, an enormous volcanic crater approximately 2 kilometers wide and 400 meters deep. The rim trail offers a two-hour hike with views that rival those of America’s mountain towns but with a distinct Azorean character: lush vegetation inside the crater contrasting with the deep blue Atlantic on the horizon.
Where sailors from across the globe leave their mark
Horta, the island’s charming main town, holds a special place in maritime history. Its marina walls display thousands of colorful murals painted by sailors crossing the Atlantic—a tradition believed to bring good luck. Walking along these walls feels like browsing an open-air gallery of seafaring stories.
Every painting tells a different journey across the Atlantic. Some simple, some elaborate, but each represents people who crossed an ocean to reach our little island,” says Marina Director João Vargas.
The legendary café where maritime tales flow like gin
No visit to Faial is complete without stopping at Peter’s Café Sport, an institution since 1918. This world-famous sailors’ bar serves the island’s signature gin alongside hearty Azorean dishes. The walls are covered with sailing memorabilia, and conversations between locals and international visitors create an atmosphere you won’t find in touristy spots like Thailand’s overcrowded islands.
Natural swimming pools carved by lava
At Varadouro on the southwestern coast, nature has created perfect swimming spots where volcanic rock meets the Atlantic. These natural pools offer a safe place to swim while waves crash dramatically against the outer rocks—a geological wonder similar to what visitors seek in Greece’s island getaways but with a distinctly volcanic character.
An island-hopping paradise
Faial forms part of the “Triangle Islands” alongside Pico and São Jorge, making it perfect for island-hopping adventures. From Horta’s harbor, Pico Mountain—Portugal’s highest peak—looms dramatically across the channel, just a 30-minute ferry ride away.
The hydrangea season that transforms the landscape
Visit in July or August to witness why Faial earned its “Blue Island” nickname. Miles of hydrangeas in various blue shades line the roads and fields, creating a floral spectacle that rivals the engineering marvels of ancient civilizations—except this one renews itself annually through nature’s own design.
The first time you see our island during hydrangea season, it looks like someone painted the landscape blue. It’s our living masterpiece,” notes local photographer Ana Silveira.
When to visit this Atlantic gem
The ideal time to experience Faial is May through September when temperatures hover pleasantly between 65-75°F. July and August bring peak hydrangea blooms but also more visitors. June offers the perfect balance of good weather, flowering landscapes, and fewer crowds.
Faial represents what travel should be—a place where natural wonders, cultural richness, and authentic experiences converge without the manufactured tourism that plagues many destinations. On this volcanic island in the middle of the Atlantic, you’ll discover that some of the world’s most remarkable places still remain wonderfully under the radar.