Santa Maria, the southernmost island in the Azores archipelago, boasts a rich history and a variety of attractions for visitors to explore. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the island’s history, along with recommendations for things to do and see:
History:
Early settlement: Portuguese explorers found Santa Maria to be one of the first islands in the Azores. It is believed to have been settled in the early 15th century. The island’s fertile soil attracted settlers, primarily from mainland Portugal.
Colonial Era: During the Age of Discovery, Santa Maria played a strategic role as a stopover point for ships travelling between Europe and the New World. Its natural harbour, Porto de São Lourenço, served as an important anchorage for navigators and explorers.
Pirate Attacks: Like other islands in the Azores, Santa Maria was vulnerable to pirate attacks during the 16th and 17th centuries. Pirates frequently targeted the island’s ports in search of plunder and supplies.
Whaling Industry: In the 19th century, Santa Maria became a centre for the whaling industry. Whalers from the United States and other countries established operations on the island, exploiting the rich marine resources of the surrounding waters.
Modern Era: Today, Santa Maria is known for its picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and welcoming hospitality. The island’s economy relies primarily on agriculture, fishing, and tourism.
What to do and see:
- Praia Formosa: Explore the stunning beaches of Santa Maria, such as Praia Formosa. With its white sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
- Barreiro da Faneca: Visit Barreiro da Faneca, a protected natural area renowned for its unique geological formations and scenic viewpoints. Don’t miss the iconic Pedreira do Campo, a quarry that offers panoramic views of the island’s coastline.
- Charming Villages: Take a leisurely stroll through the island’s charming villages, such as Vila do Porto, the main town of Santa Maria. Admire the traditional architecture, including the distinctive chimneys that adorn many of the homes.
- Cultural Heritage: Discover Santa Maria’s rich cultural heritage at sites like the Church of Nossa Senhora da Assunção, a historic church located in Vila do Porto. Explore the island’s museums and cultural centres to learn more about its history and traditions.
- Hiking and Nature Trails: Lace up your hiking boots and explore Santa Maria’s scenic hiking trails, which wind through lush forests, volcanic landscapes, and coastal cliffs. The Pico Alto Trail, leading to the highest point on the island, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
- Water Activities: Enjoy a variety of water activities, including snorkelling, diving, and sailing. Explore the island’s underwater ecosystems and discover colourful marine life in the clear Atlantic waters.
- Local Cuisine: Indulge in the delicious flavours of Azorean cuisine at Santa Maria’s restaurants and eateries. Sample fresh seafood dishes, traditional cheeses, and sweet pastries made with locally sourced ingredients.
Santa Maria offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures, making it an unforgettable destination for travellers seeking an authentic Azorean experience. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach, exploring historic sites, or embarking on outdoor excursions, you’ll find plenty to see and do on this enchanting island.
Santa Maria: Island Overview
- Location: Situated in the vast Atlantic Ocean, Santa Maria is nestled within the Azores archipelago, positioned at coordinates of 36°58′29″N latitude and 25°05′41″W longitude.
- Archipelago: Santa Maria is part of the Azores archipelago, a group of volcanic islands that belong to Portugal. It is the southernmost island in this enchanting cluster.
- Area: Covering an area of approximately 96.87 square kilometres (37.40 square miles), Santa Maria is relatively small compared to its neighbouring islands in the Azores.
- Coastline: The island boasts a coastline that stretches for approximately 77.55 kilometres (48.187 miles), offering a diverse range of landscapes and coastal features to explore.
- Highest Elevation: Pico Alto stands as the highest point on Santa Maria, reaching an elevation of 586.8 metres (1925.2 feet). From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the island and its surrounding waters.
Notable Features:
- Volcanic Origins: Like the other islands in the Azores, Santa Maria has volcanic origins, contributing to its rugged terrain and unique geological formations.
- Pristine Beaches: The island is renowned for its pristine white sand beaches, attracting sun-seekers and water enthusiasts from around the world.
- Distinctive Landscape: Santa Maria’s landscape is characterised by rolling hills, lush valleys, and dramatic cliffs, offering breathtaking scenery at every turn.
- Rich Biodiversity: Despite its small size, Santa Maria is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including endemic species found nowhere else on Earth.
Exploration and Activities:
Exploration and Activities:- Hiking Trails: Explore Santa Maria’s diverse terrain on a network of hiking trails that wind through forests, volcanic craters, and coastal vistas.
- Beach Activities: Relax on the island’s beautiful beaches and enjoy a variety of water activities, including swimming, snorkelling, and surfing.
- Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in Santa Maria’s rich cultural heritage by visiting historic sites, museums, and charming villages dotted across the island.
- Adventure Sports: For adrenaline junkies, Santa Maria offers opportunities for adventure sports such as mountain biking, paragliding, and off-road exploration.
- Whale Watching: Embark on a thrilling whale watching excursion to observe majestic marine mammals in their natural habitat, a popular activity in the waters surrounding Santa Maria.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply relaxation amidst stunning natural beauty, Santa Maria promises an unforgettable journey filled with discovery and wonder.
Getting to Santa Maria, the southernmost island in the Azores archipelago, involves a combination of air and sea travel. Here’s how you can reach this picturesque island:
By Air:
- International Flights: If you’re travelling from abroad, the most common route is to fly into one of the major international airports in Portugal, such as Lisbon Airport (LIS) or Porto Airport (OPO).
- Connecting Flights: From Lisbon or Porto, you can catch a connecting flight to Santa Maria Airport (SMA), also known as Vila do Porto Airport. Several airlines operate regular flights to Santa Maria, including Azores Airlines (SATA) and TAP Air Portugal.
- Flight Duration: The flight duration from mainland Portugal to Santa Maria is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on the departure airport and airline.
By Sea (Inter-Island Ferry):
- Inter-Island Ferry: Another option for reaching Santa Maria is by taking an inter-island ferry from one of the other Azorean islands. Regular ferry services operate between the islands, offering both passenger and vehicle transportation.
- Inter-Island Ferry Terminals: Ferry terminals are located in various ports across the Azores, including Ponta Delgada on São Miguel, Horta on Faial, and Angra do Heroísmo on Terceira.
- Ferry Operators: Atlânticoline is the main ferry operator in the Azores, providing reliable and comfortable transportation between the islands. Ferry schedules and availability may vary depending on the season, so it’s advisable to check in advance and book tickets accordingly.
Additional Tips:
- Travel Planning: When planning your trip to Santa Maria, it’s essential to consider factors such as flight availability, ferry schedules, and accommodation options. Booking in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, is recommended to secure your travel arrangements.
- Weather Considerations: Keep in mind that weather conditions in the Azores can be unpredictable, particularly during the winter months. It is advisable to stay informed and flexible with your travel plans because bad weather may affect ferry and flight schedules.
- Local Transportation: Upon arrival in Santa Maria, various transportation options are available for getting around the island, including rental cars, taxis, and local buses. Renting a car is often the most convenient way to explore Santa Maria’s attractions at your own pace.
By following these travel guidelines, you can embark on a memorable journey to Santa Maria, where you’ll discover the island’s natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality.
Santa Maria offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets, including hotels, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, and rural tourism establishments. Here are some options for places to stay on the island:
Hotels:
- Hotel Santa Maria: Located in Vila do Porto, this modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and amenities such as a swimming pool and fitness centre.
- Charming Blue Hotel: Situated near Praia Formosa, this boutique hotel features stylish rooms with ocean views, a rooftop terrace, and a bar serving cocktails and snacks.
- Casa do Norte is a cosy hotel located in the heart of Santa Maria, offering charming rooms decorated in traditional Azorean style. Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast and relax in the peaceful garden.
Guesthouses and Bed & Breakfasts:
- Quinta do Porto: This guesthouse is set in a restored farmhouse overlooking Vila do Porto. It offers comfortable rooms, a shared kitchen for guests, and a garden with barbecue facilities.
- Casa da Avó is a family-run bed and breakfast located in the countryside, offering spacious rooms, homemade breakfast with local produce, and a tranquil atmosphere.
- Casa do Lugar: Situated in the historic centre of Vila do Porto, this guesthouse features cosy rooms with traditional décor, a communal lounge area, and a garden where guests can relax.
Rural Tourism:
- Quinta das Figueiras: This rural tourism establishment offers cottages surrounded by vineyards and orchards. Guests can experience farm life, participate in agricultural activities, and enjoy homemade meals prepared with organic ingredients.
- Casa da Matança: Nestled in a rural setting, this traditional Azorean house offers rustic accommodation with modern amenities. Guests can explore the surrounding countryside, hike along scenic trails, and unwind in the peaceful ambiance.
- Quinta do Tagus: Located in the countryside near Praia Formosa, this rural tourism estate offers self-catering cottages with panoramic views of the ocean. Guests can enjoy the tranquilly of nature, relax by the pool, and savour the flavours of regional cuisine.
Additional Tips:
- Booking in Advance: It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (summer months), to ensure availability and secure the best rates.
- Location Preferences: Consider your preferred location when choosing accommodation. Options near the beach offer easy access to water activities, while establishments in rural areas provide a peaceful retreat amidst nature.
- Amenities and Services: Check the amenities and services offered by each accommodation, such as Wi-Fi, parking, breakfast options, and recreational facilities, to ensure they meet your needs and preferences.
Whether you’re seeking a luxurious hotel experience, a cosy bed and breakfast, or an authentic rural retreat, Santa Maria offers a variety of accommodations to make your stay memorable and enjoyable.
