Eastern Islands
This is the largest island in the group and arguably the most beautiful. One of the most spectacular sights is Sete Cidades – a 40 sq km (15 sq mile) volcanic crater with two lakes, one of deep blue, the other emerald green. The former fishing village of Ponta Delgada is now the administrative and commercial centre of the archipelago with a population of more than 60,000. The historic centre consists of narrow streets, faced with attractive whitewashed houses, many of which date from the 17th and 18th centuries. The best vantage point is the waterfront promenade. At Furnas, visitors can enjoy the Terra Nostra Park, a tropical garden created in the 18th and 19th centuries, and bathe in therapeutic sulphurous spring water. Gorreana and Porto Formoso have what is said to be the only tea plantations in Europe. From the miradouro at Santa Iria, there are views of almost the entire northern coast. Pineapple products and embroidery are typical souvenirs of the island.
The first island to be discovered, Santa Maria is characterised by vineyards, emerald green fields, palm trees and windmills. Praia Formosa has a first-class beach, said to be the best in the archipelago, and is the setting for a music festival in August. The beach at Bahia de São Lourenco, is a rockier alternative. Vila do Porto, the only settlement of any size, has a 15th-century parish church and the town hall is located in a former 16th-century convent. The island is popular with divers and water-skiers.
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