Today, we visited São Jorge Island, the third of the seven islands we will visit on this trip. There were three different activities offered today—two hikes and a panoramic overview tour of the island. The panoramic tour visited three different viewpoints (Calheta, Ouvidor and Velas) and enjoyed a cheese tasting at Uniqueijo Cooperativa dos Lourais. A highlight of the tour was a visit to the ruins of the old church tower of Urzelina, which was destroyed by the volcano eruption in 1808.
Two different hikes were offered, including a strenuous hike from Serra do Topo to Fajã dos Cubres, which descends Caldeira de Cima. The moderate hikers trekked a coastal scenic route from Fajã dos Cubres to Fajã da Caldeira Santo Cristo. After lunch, our National Geographic photographer and photo instructor gave an impromptu photo walk around Velas.
Afterward, National Geographic Photographer Gemina Garland-Lewis gave a presentation titled, “On Assignment: The Life of a National Geographic Explorer,” about her work in the Azores.
Before cocktail hour, we were joined by special guest Ali Bullock, co-owner of The Gin Library, for a local gin tasting. Bullock works with the Ocean Azores Foundation supporting marine conservation by donating a portion of their profits.
