3 Experiences of Nature in Graciosa
ON THE VOLCANO'S THROAT
To speak of nature in Graciosa and not to mention the Caldeira (1) is like going to Rome and not seeing the Pope. This volcano, located in the southern zone of the island, has a maximum altitude of 402 meters. Getting to Caldeira is relatively easy, but if you prefer a more comprehensive view of the volcano, go up the north road, going up the Serra Branca from Ribeirinha. Before entering the crater, go down to Furna do Abel and visit Furna da Maria Encantada.
Also, walk the path around the Caldeira, observe the whole southern part of the island and, if the day allows, you will see the remaining four islands of the central group. Enter, passing the tunnel, and go to Furna do Enxofre (2) the main attraction of this Natural Monument. The Furna do Enxofre is a volcanic cavity 50 meters high by 194 meters long and what makes it unique is the fact that it has a perfect vaulted ceiling, the largest volcanic vault in Europe, covered by small stalactites. To get there you will have to go down a tower with spiral stairs. Inside there is a lagoon and a fumarolic field with muddy water and dry gaseous fumes on the floor of the cave. But attention, on certain days, the concentration of carbon dioxide can reach values greater than the allowable ones, reason why the technicians in the place will not let you enter. After descending and climbing the 183 steps to Furna do Enxofre, and instead of entering the tunnel, turn right and go to the recreation area, where you can renew your strength and explore the existing belvederes.
IN RAW AND WILD STATE
Another place of interest at Graciosa is the area of Porto Afonso (3) or Afonso do Porto (the doctrine is divided in relation to the name). This small port, located in the parish of Guadalupe, stands out for being in a natural bay, where the fusion between land and sea can be appreciated in its wildest state. On land, stand out the high cliffs where you can see different geological layers and the small caves next to the port, that serve for arranging boats. At sea, the clear water and the views of São Jorge and Ponta Branca, give you spectacular images, especially at sunset. If you are looking for a place where you will hardly see another human being, this will be the ideal in Graciosa.
To get there, leave from Santa Cruz and cross the Barro Vermelho road. On the way, enjoy and visit the Lighthouse of Ponta da Barca (4) and observe Ilhéu da Baleia (5) (the name says it all), another of the Graciosa brand images. Follow the road to Vitória/Ribeirinha and you will find the sign for Porto Afonso. Wear appropriate footwear and on windy or rainy days, do not approach the cliffs because there may be falling stones.
AND THE SEA, ALWAYS SO CLOSE
The gentle relief of Graciosa (it is the lowest island in the Azores) gives it unique and exceptional conditions in access to the sea that can be made easily and practically throughout the island. Also, the fact that it has an extensive sea platform allows you to dive to accessible depths rich in species. There are several attractive areas for diving, such as the Terceirense shipwrecked off the Ilhéu da Praia, the Ilhéus do Carapacho (6) and the Baixas do Ferreiro (7) and the Pesqueiro Longo (8).
You can also go on boat trips or birdwatching, especially the Garajau Rosado and Paínho-de-Monteiro. In the last case, the only known the only nesting colonies are in Ilhéu da Praia and Ilhéu de Baixo (Carapacho). There are companies that organize these activities. The places of departure are Santa Cruz and Praia, depending on the weather conditions. Contact them in advance, especially during the summer season. Graciosa has hosted some important events related to maritime activities, with special emphasis on the Open Foto-Sub (international underwater photography event) and EDP Endless sea (Surf), which reinforces the quality of the island for these experiences.
