UNESCO has designated Graciosa, the White Island in the Azores, as a World Biosphere Reserve. This island has a distinct environment and a rich architectural past, making it a must-see Azorean destination. Graciosa is 12.5 kilometres long and home to around 4,000 people. It is part of the Azores Archipelago’s Central Groups, and its nearest neighbour is Jorge, making it an ideal location for island hopping. The White Island got its name from the white characteristics of Graciosa observed in Pedras Brancas (White Stones) and Serra Branca (White Hills).
What can you do in Graciosa?
- Hiking
Graciosa features the shortest hiking track in the Azores. The route begins in the middle of Luz and finishes with the beautiful Baia da Folga, making it ideal for a brief stroll. There are three other hiking paths in Graciosas that are worth a try: Great Route of Graciosa (40 KM, 14h), Serra Branca – Praia (8.7 KM, 2h30m), and Volta à Caldeira – Furna do Enxofre (40 KM, 14h) (10.8 KM, 3h).
Make sure to hike on “official” routes maintained by the Azores Tourism Board for your own safety. These are well-maintained and marked with hiking markers so that people do not get lost.
- Enjoy swimming in the Thermal Baths
The Carpacho Spa is Graciosa’s most well-known attraction. These natural bathing pools provide views of the ocean and nearby islands. There are also thermal baths in this area, which is a pool with warm water at 40oC that is rich in bicarbonate and magnesium salts. Locals have been using them to heal ailments since the 1700s. The baths have been transformed into a spa, complete with jet showers and jacuzzis. The spa is available from May to September. There is a small fee to enter
- Water Activities
Graciosa is one of the best islands in the world for water activities including diving, sailing, and kayaking, as well as fishing. The major water sport is undoubtedly diving, since the island is renowned as one of the top diving spots in Europe, having waters with visibility of more than 25 metres. In comparison to neighbouring islands, the water temperature is likewise relatively warm, hovering about 20 degrees Celsius. The island is home to a wide range of wildlife and sea life species, including sharks, tunas, and prawns. You may also observe black coral, which is only found in a few places on the island. Here are some of the top diving places on the island. You may also go windsurfing, with the finest spots being Santa Cruz and Praia bays
- Pay a visit to Caldeira da Graciosa.
The Caldeira da Graciosa is a huge crater designated as a Regional Natural Monument. This crater features a distinctive volcanic structure amid one of Graciosa’s second-largest woodland regions. It has a diameter of 4.4 kilometres and a height of 405 metres. This crater has tourist caves such as the Furna da Maria Encantada (Cave of Enchanted Mary) and the Furna do Enxofre (Sulphur Cave).
