An hour's flight from Sao Miguel is the smaller island of Faial. It was discovered by the Portuguese in the first half of the 15th century and settled by the Flemish. It was a major stop for sailors travelling between South America, Africa, and Europe to resupply and refuel. As the English settlements in the New World grew, Horta became a busy port as it was the only safe anchorage harbour in the Azores.
The marina is decorated with paintings by crews from visiting boats, a tradition that is believed to bring protection on its return. Over 1200 vessels call here every year on their transatlantic journeys.
On the other side of the water is the huge Pico volcano, a trek I would embark on a few days later on the 3rd island of this trip.
