The island is 21 kilometres long and 14 kilometers wide and there are good views of the other islands of the central group.

The position of Faial made the Port of Horta a secure stop during the days when ships were under sail.

This contributed to the growth of the island's economy as the demand for agriculture, fishing and commerce increased.

This Pousada is situated in a 16th Century fortress built over Horta Bay and, in 1947 it was classified as a National Monument.

From the Pousada there are magnificent views to the famous sailing harbour and its yachts and across to the magnificent Pico Island.

The Pousada has 26 bedrooms and 2 suites, all with private bathroom, air conditioning, Cable television, hair dryer, safe, bathing gowns, telephone, internet (for PC) and minibar.

Facilities include air conditioning, lift, bar, restaurant, family games, facilities for disabled persons and swimming pool.

This Pousada of Portugal also has conference facilities.

Dining in Portugal is ususally very good. This restaurant offers international cuisine and a variety of local and regional specialities.

Popular with tourists are boat trips to watch dolphins and whales and also a visit to the "lunar" landscape of the Capelinhos Island which emerged from the Atlantic in 1957.

On Faial is the Caldeira do Cabeco Gordo which is a crater of volcanic origin with a diameter of nearly 1450 metres and a depth reaching 400 metres.

A very popular wine is produced on the Island of Pico from grapes grown in the volcanic soil. The distinctive flavour made it popular with the Russian Tzars.

Other activities on the island include horse riding, scuba diving, country walks and bicycle tours.

This Pousada will be closed from 20 December 2008 to 31 January 2009.