Ferries to Graciosa

The volcanic island of Graciosa makes up part of the Azores archipelago in the mid-Atlantic. There is 1 port in Graciosa. Vila da Praia port is located on the east coast of the island, with ferry connections from Horta, Madalena, Velas and Praia da Vitoria.

Known as the ‘White Island’ due to a white clay landscape and its sea of whitewashed houses, it oozes rural charm and tranquillity. It also boasts a Dutch-style backdrop of windmills scattered across vast fields and colourful vineyards.

In Vila da Praia, make sure you visit the Church of Sao Mateus, which features a fascinating 18th Century organ.

A hike up the 129m ‘Monte de Nossa Senhora da Ajuda’ gives you stunning views overlooking Santa Cruz. There are also some wonderful shrines nearby, most notably the ‘Chapel of our Lady of Help’, which is a fine example of fortified religious architecture.

Day Trips to Graciosa

• Velas to Vila da Praia ferry - 2 hours and 35 minutes