Vila das Velas - Activities, Attractions & Shopping

Hiking

The island is a hiker's paradise.  On a fine day you can walk the central ridge of the island to its high point at Pico do Esperança, from where it is possible to see all of the islands of the central group, then down to the village of Norte Pequeno or even to Fajã d’Ouvidor on the north coast.

The most famous walk, though, is from Serra do Topo to Fajã dos Cubres via Fajã da Caldeira do Santo Cristo. A taxi is needed from Velas to the start of the walk, but it is then possible (during the week) to get a bus back from Norte Pequeno.

The start of this walk gives one some stunning views over the island, and the glimpses one gets of the fajã on the way down, often through tree heather woodland with hedges of hydrangeas, are delightful.

Cheese

São Jorge is famed for its cheeses which vary from mild and creamy to sharp and tangy.  A visit to a cheese factory is a must, especially as the size of the tasting portions almost constitutes lunch.

Textiles

For textile enthusiasts, a visit to the Casa de Artesanato at Fajã dos Vimes is a must. Here the colchas de ponto alto are woven on ancient looms by Sra Maria Alzira Ávila Nunes and her sister Sra Maria Carminda Ávila Nunes.