When we flew to the Azores for the first time in the fall of 2014, we knew nothing and nobody here, in fact, I had to look up where the Azores even were. But I guess you make connections when you go back time and time again.
First person here was Carolina. She is a hotel receptionist at the Gaivota, where we spent many of our holidays. She is also the person who has kept my bicycle for me since 2018. She likes maple syrup so I bring her a litre from Costco when I come.
A few years later, while we were still staying at the Gaivota, we met Tony and Germaine. They are a retired couple from Burlington who have built a lovely house on this island as Germaine was born here. They do a lot of travelling, with their 2 dogs. They are very generous and have invited us to supper several times and to stay over (which we don't do as we love our apartment here on the waterfront). They have offered to care for my bike this year as Carolina needs to do some renovations at her house.
But last year was the first time that we had friends from home come and join us here. Steve and Hannah spent a week hiking and sightseeing. Mark and Anna came and checked out this place after we had promoted it so highly. Clive and Nicole came and took some day tours with us.
Clive and Nicole enjoyed themselves to much that they are back this year. Clive loves to drive so they rented a car this time and for the last 2 days, we have been all over the island.
Yesterday it was the tea plantation Goreanna. Clive loves tea and Ian has taken him some from here for several years. Since we were there last, the facility has had a major modern addition for tea and gift shop. There were many more people, including a school tour from England. But the equipment was all still the same.
From there we proceeded along the north coast to Ribiera dos Caldieros (river of two waterfalls), hidden away in one of the many gullies formed by rivers flowing from the central mountain ridge down to the ocean. This one is spectacular -- Ian calls it Rivendell because it truly looks like an idyllic movie set.
Going east to the tip of the island, we arrived in Nordeste where, after a pizza lunch, we found the park which we had visited with our tour guide Henrique a number of years ago. It is beautifully maintained, spectacularly situated on a cliff overlooking black sand beaches and full of unusual plants, another magical spot where the locals can bbq and enjoy a day outside.
Today we went west, starting along the north coast till we came to a narrow road which took us to the edge of the large crater which has 2 lakes and a village inside. Spectacular views!
Then, we took the coastal road to Mosteiros and climbed on rocks beside natural swimming pools. Also, picked up some lovely rocks with olivine crystals in the black lava stone.
Then it was on to Sete Cidades, the village inside the crater. Lunch was at a spot right beside one of the lakes and after a stroll around the town, we were entertained by a parade of the locals, complete with band.
The drive back along the southwest side of the island has great views, but narrow roads. I did some of the once on the bike -- not again.
What was great about the last two days, was that not only were we experiencing some of the unique and wonderful spots of the island, but that we were sharing them with friends. For me, it strengthens the bond when we do something together.
Long live friendship!!
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