PONTA DELGADA, AZORES

From the pier in Ponta Delgada, we head north-east along pleasant roads bordering agricultural areas stretching across the island to the small town of Ribeira Grande. Ribeira Grande is the oldest town on the north coast and it has a Portuguese feeling – we will see this in the house facades and verandahs.

From the pier in Ponta Delgada, we head north-east along pleasant roads bordering agricultural areas stretching across the island to the small town of Ribeira Grande. Ribeira Grande is the oldest town on the north coast and it has a Portuguese feeling – we will see this in the house facades and verandahs. We shall have some time to stroll in the cobblestone streets. We may visit the local church if services are not in progress, or sample the product of the Azorean liqueur shop here. We continue along mountain roads to the summit of Pico da Barrosa Mountain, where there are fine views of the Fire Lake – said to be one of the most beautiful of the island’s lakes. On our return to Ponta Delgada we descend towards Remedios in the south, and travel via Lagoa. A visit is made to a pineapple plantation before we return to our ship. This tour involves approximately 10 minutes of walking over cobblestones in Ribeira Grande, and a little walking at the Fire Lake and the pineapple plantation, plus 5 steps. A warm layer of clothing including a raincoat is recommended.