Ferry from Horta to Velas

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.

Velas Guide

What is there to do in Velas?

There are around 10,000 people living on the island of Sao Jorge, with many of them resting in the cosy capital of Velas. The quaint town adheres to visitors hoping to bask in the stunning surroundings whilst enjoying a drink at one of the bars, as well as the more adventurous types longing to explore the undulating terrain. The striking landscape is what draws so many to the island; verdant hills afford incredible panoramic vistas of the encompassing water and the quaint boats residing by the harbour. The 10,000 permanent residents of Sao Jorge are a relatively large number for a fairly small island, though there are nearly twice as many cows living amongst the locals. Unsurprisingly, there is a strong cheese industry in Velas – visit one of the cheese-tasting facilities to enjoy the local produce. After sampling a few tasty cheeses, bask in some mesmerising architecture showcased by the Church of Santa Barbara which displays remarkable structures and designs.

How do you get around Velas?

The town is very small so it can be covered entirely by foot.