5 Experiences in Shades of Green and Yellow on the Sun Island
DIVE WITH THE GIANT OCEANIC MANTA RAY
Imagine yourself to dive surrounded be oceanic manta rays, shoals of great pelagics or even with a whale shark? It looks scary. But, in reality, it is a unique experience that you can experience in the crystalline waters of Santa Maria. During the summer months, divers from all over the world visit the island, to see oceanic manta rays, that often, in large groups, swim gracefully around the divers. Also known as manta, this giant fish that in the past caused great fear to the fishermen could reach about seven meters in wingspan and weigh more than 1,350 kg. It is also an animal of long life, being able to live until the 20 years. Despite being frightening in appearance, they are, in fact, very curious and amiable animals
A TRIP TO THE PAST BY THE FOSSILS
When passing through the historic area of Vila do Porto, be sure to enter the Interpretation Environmental Center Dalberto Pombo and the House of Fossils (1). The center that houses the estate of the naturalist Dalberto Pombo gives you the opportunity to have direct contact with reconstituted animals such as butterflies, beetles and migratory birds with routes around the island. You will feel in a truly natural habitat. On the other side, in the House of Fossils, get ready to back off in the past, 6.5 millions of years, in a 3D voyage through the geological formation of the island, from past to present. Here, you can 'feel' the fossils and 'hear' the sound of the fossiliferous deposits. For the little ones, there is a reserved space where they can be paleontologists for a day.
SOUTH COAST TRAIL
After the visit to the House of Fossils, it's time to prove that the lesson was well studied. It is by the South Coast rail that you will pass through an area, known as Pedreira do Campo (2), where marine fossil contents can be observed. The trail begins in the Fort of São Brás (3), a military building from the 17th century, with a magnificent view to the marina of the village and the bay of Calhau da Roupa. During the trip, you will go through pastures, through the Gruta, and through the Forno do Cal, you will find pleasant landscapes and contact with the natural flora. Descending to Prainha, you will feel your legs shaking with fatigue. But, take time to rest on the white sands or even take a dip in the clear waters of this deserted beach.
BE THE CASCATA DO AVEIRO
If you are a supporter of mountainous and green landscapes, in the northern part of the island you can have incredible experiences. The Santo Espírito - Maia rail is an example. Starting near the Church, in the center of this small rural parish, this tour gives you the opportunity to contemplate the beauty of the Cascata do Aveiro (4)about 80 meters high, one of the highest in the country. You can also enjoy the traditional vineyards, a relevant part of the Santa Maria culture. When arriving at the Baía da Maia, make a small detour and enjoy this waterfall. It will be gladly received by dozens of ducks who live there. In this natural pool bay, you will also visit Ponta do Castelo (5), where are located the ruins of an old Whaling Factory (6).
A GREEN MOMENT
When leaving the northern part of the island, Pico alto (7) is a must stop location, as well as the forest reserve of Fontinhas (8). Living up to its name, this volcano about 3 million years old is located at about 590 meters above sea level. From this peak, you will observe the whole island and, if the weather is good, you can see the neighboring island of São Miguel. You may be tired, so we advise you to enter the recreational forest reserve of the Fontinhas. Believe that you will not regret it. You will have a moment of peace of mind, with pure air and around the natural beauty of green plants.
