Faro da Ponta dos Capelinhos Guide
Faro da Ponta dos Capelinhos: Witness the Power of Volcanic Creation Guide
Journey to the westernmost point of Faial Island and witness the dramatic landscape of Ponta dos Capelinhos. This area is famous for its volcanic eruption in 1957-58, which added new land to the island and created a surreal, moon-like landscape. The Faro da Ponta dos Capelinhos (Capelinhos Lighthouse) stands as a silent sentinel, a testament to the power of nature. The Capelinhos eruption was a significant event in Azorean history, forcing many islanders to emigrate. The lighthouse, built in 1903, was partially buried by the volcanic ash and debris, but it remains a powerful symbol of resilience. Today, the site features an excellent interpretation center, buried beneath the volcanic ash, which provides a fascinating insight into the eruption, its impact, and the geology of the Azores. Visitors can explore the interpretation center, climb the lighthouse (when open), and walk along the volcanic landscape. The views are breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline. While there are no specific culinary traditions directly linked to the Capelinhos area, you can find restaurants in nearby Capelo village offering traditional Azorean seafood dishes.
Transportation
The Faro da Ponta dos Capelinhos is located on the western tip of Faial Island. The easiest way to reach it is by rental car. Local buses also serve the area, but the schedule may be limited. Check the local bus schedule for routes and times to Capelo.