One hour after sunrise I was in the saddle to tackle the highest mountain on Faial. 17km ascent kept me warm but the initial phase of the downhill was freezing before it turned into a 12km final pure joy-ride. More to explore!
The Caldeira is impressive and invites to be deeper explored. It has got a 2km diameter and 400m difference in altitude, bottom to top. Β It has got enough room for a mini crater, which you can see, if you zoom into the picture above.
There are certified guides, who can bring you into the heart of it, which must be another great experience to learn more about this fantastic island.
At the time Kaos arrived today I got disappointed still believing that SY ADIX was extraordinary. Kaos has moored under the tiny little Mount Pico. It is the one next to the fishing vessel, if any doubt.
Another private toy, not for charter. What a pity but gorgeous to look at.
As planned but still with a stitch of regret Sailmaster Rainer signed off today from SY Hullu Poro. Besides excellent accompany the lady was also allowed to be sailed fast & comfortable. Although my focus in the past was on comfort, I have learned that through the correct sail trim (which can easily take 3omin by torch in the night!) maximising speed does not necessarily jeopardise the comfort.
It was a great time spent with two fantastic passages over the last six weeks. Thank you. Anytime again!
No doubt, the absolute beauty here in Marina Horta is currently SY ADIX, a three-masted schooner, build in 1984. We met Jeff, one of the 13 crews and got some additional insides about its history and how she is being sailed by its owner. It might disappoint you, but she is not for charter! Just a private toy!
I am glad Rainer managed to rent a decent bike and we explored the second part of the Boating & Biking Adventure together.
It took us along the southern coastline of Faial to a national park, famous not only for the beauty of the landscape but also for its unique geological characteristics and flora and fauna. While the park itself was mind blowing the ride as well was another great experience, especially with the two pit-stops we did to refuel body and soul.π
Now I am hopeful Corinna & Rainer will take proper bikes on their upcoming voyage around the world and add even more quality time through easily exploring places by bike.
With Rainer having joined our adventures some weeks back it became clear quickly, that individual travel will turn into a group trip. It became obvious in many aspects and did set the right tenor in many aspects.
This was not only limited to drinking beer but also getting a hair cut done! I was long time overdue anyway, so in the spirit of group travel there was no chance for Rainer to escape. π
Following our walk through Horta today, I am positively surprised as it offers not only a nice park but also all basic shops round it. I am tempted to extend my stay to explore further rather than rushing on.
My first ride on Faial took me to the outskirts of Horta. I was positively impressed and strongly believe that Faial is a biking island. Besides remarkable scenery I got the chance to accompany some local riders. More to follow!
It was the 15th May 2020 when this adventure started and I moved onto the boat, first time not having an end date. While we were stuck in the Baltic during the Covid time, our journey really took off June 2021.
We have sailed 12310nm and biked/hiked 6706km in 16 countries apart from the interesting people and cultures we encountered on our way.
I will have a silent celebration later tonight with a big toast to the lady having stood by me so far without exception.
The adventure continuous.
Fair winds…
PS: We joined Anna and Decius at their table, two locals from Faial, and learned a lot about the island and its people but also about nature and challenges. They also recommended us some places we MUST SEE. Very nice.