Os Açores é um arquipélago português localizado no Meio do Oceano Atlântico Norte. Ele é formado por 9 Ilhas Vulcânicas com paisagens exuberantes e ótimas condições para a prática de desporto na natureza.
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É nos Açores que se encontra a maior montanha de Portugal, a Ilha do Pico, com 2.351 m. Se medido desde a sua base no fundo do oceano até os seus picos, que se projetam muito acima da superfÃcie do Atlântico, o Pico é na verdade uma das montanhas mais altas do planeta.
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O clima dos Açores é temperado, com temperaturas médias de 13 ° C no inverno e 24 ° C no verão. A corrente do Golfo relativamente próxima mantém a água do mar a uma temperatura média entre 17 ° C e 23 ° C. O ar é úmido, com uma umidade relativa média de cerca de 75%.
The Azores is a Portuguese archipelago located in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean. It is formed by 9 Volcanic Islands with exuberant landscapes and excellent conditions for the practice of sport in nature.
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It is in the Azores that you can find the largest mountain in Portugal, the Pico Island, with 2,351m. If measured from its base at the bottom of the ocean to its peaks, which project far above the surface of the Atlantic, Pico is actually one of the highest mountains on the planet.
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The climate of the Azores is temperate, with average temperatures of 13° C in winter and 24° C in summer. The relatively close Gulf Stream keeps the sea water at an average temperature between 17 ° C and 23° C. The air is humid, with an average relative humidity of about 75%.
AS 9 ILHAS DOS AÇORES
THE 9 ISLANDS OF AZORES
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São Miguel
Santa Maria
Terceira
Faial
Pico
São Jorge
Graciosa
Flores
Corvo
COMO CHEGAR
É possÃvel chegar em qualquer Ilha dos Açores de avião a partir de Lisboa e das 2 principais Ilhas do Arquipélago: São Miguel e Terceira.
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Lisboa recebe voos do mundo inteiro enquanto em na Ilha de São Miguel e na Ilha Terceira chegam voos dos Estados Unidos, Canadá, Espanha, Cabo Verde e Outros paÃses da Europa.
A companhia aérea que voa entre as Ilhas ou de Lisboa para as Ilhas é a Azores Airlines.
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Entre as 3 Ilhas do Triângulo Açoriano, Pico, São Jorge e Faial, é possÃvel viajar de barco o ano todo pela Atlântico Line. Durante o verão há viagens de barco entre todas ilhas.
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IMPORTANTE: durante os eventos do Azores Trail Run®, a procura por viagens é elevada e as passagens aéreas podem se esgotar ou aumentar muito de preço. Recomendamos reserva antecipada e que te informes sobre os pacotes de viagem disponÃveis para cada prova.
It is possible to reach any island in the Azores by plane from Lisbon and the 2 main islands of the Archipelago: São Miguel and Terceira.
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Lisbon receives flights from all over the world while on São Miguel Island and Terceira Island flights arrive from the United States, Canada, Spain, Cape Verde and other European countries.
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The airline that flies between the Islands or from Lisbon to the Islands is Azores Airlines.
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Between the 3 Islands of the Azorean Triangle, Pico, São Jorge and Faial, it is possible to travel by boat all year round on the Atlântico Line. During the summer there are boat trips between all the islands.
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IMPORTANT: during the events of Azores Trail Run®, the demand for travel is high and air tickets can be sold out or increase in price. We recommend booking in advance and informing you about the travel packages available for each event.
AEROPORTOS DOS AÇORES
THE AIRPORTS OF AZORES
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São Miguel:
Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL)
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Santa Maria:
Santa Maria Airport (SMA)
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Terceira:
Lajes Airport (TER)
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Faial:
Horta Airport (HOR)
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Pico:
Pico Airport (PIX)
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São Jorge:
São Jorge Aerodrome (SJZ)
Graciosa:
Graciosa Aerodrome (GRW)
Flores:
Flores Airport (FLW)
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Corvo:
Corvo Aerodrome (CVU)
HOT TO GET HERE
O QUE FAZER
WHAT TO DO
If you want, you can take the time to stretch your trip and enjoy the landscapes and activities of each island. Each island is unique, with its own characteristics and experiences, but in general, in the Azores you will be able to:
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Practice hikking and Trail Running on the various trails in the Azores
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Watch whales and dolphins (and other marine animals)
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Diving in the Ocean
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Explore volcanoes and caves
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Practicing water sports
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Cycling or horseback riding
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Enjoy the sea on beaches or in some fabulous natural pools
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Birdwatching
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Make picnic
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Explore Natural Parks and Forest Parks
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Taste the local gastronomy
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Relax, waste time at the viewpoints, get to know the historic cities
ULTRA BLUE ISLAND®: FAIAL ISLAND, AZORES
BUS TRANSFERS
Azores Trail Run® strictly provides bus transfers for athletes from Horta City to the Start Lines and back from the Finish Line. Please be aware that these buses are reserved only for athletes and are not accessible to anyone else. Suppose you're staying far from Horta or have someone following you. In that case, it is imperative that you plan and book your transportation in advance, as the organization will not provide any extra services.
Ultra Blue Island® PROGRAM
DON'T FORGET YOUR MANDATORY EQUIPMENT!
Ultra Blue Island® 2024 – PROGRAM
May 2rd (Thursday)
08 pm to 10 pm. - Race Bib Collection at Teatro Faialense
May 3th (Friday)
10 am to 8 pm. - Race Bib Collection at Teatro Faialense
6 pm. - Briefing at Teatro Faialense
9:00 pm - Bus departs from António José D'Ávila School (Horta) to WGR start line
10:00 pm – Start of the Whalers Great Route® (WGR) 118K – Location: Porto do Salão
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May 4th (Saturday)
05.30 am – Start of the Ultra Blue Island 65K at Porto Pim Gate
7:30 am - Bus departs from António José D'Ávila School (Horta) to CC start line
08.30 am – Start of the Coast to Coast 42K (CC) in front of Ribeirinha Parish Council
10 am - Bus departs from António José D'Ávila School (Horta) to TV start line
11.00 am – Start of the Trail Ten Volcanoes 25K at Cabouco Park
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1 pm - Bus departs from António José D'Ávila School (Horta)to FR start line
3 p.m. – Start of the Family Race 10K at Parque do Capelo
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May 5th (Sunday)
10h30 – Awards Ceremony at Mercado Municipal da Horta
It is highly recommended that you bring all the necessary sports equipment from home as there are very few sports shops on Faial Island. Kindly refer to the event rules for more information regarding the required gear.
HOW TO GET TO FAIAL ISLAND
DESTINATION AIRPORT FOR Ultra Blue Island®: HORTA AIRPORT (HOR)
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You can reach Faial Island from Lisboa, Ponta Delgada (Island of São Miguel), and Terceira Island.
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>> From Lisbon, there are daily flights to Faial Island by Azores Airlines (www.azoresairlines.pt)
>> From São Miguel and Terceira Islands, both in the Azores, there are daily flights to Faial Island by Azores Airlines (www.azoresairlines.pt).
You can reach São Miguel Island ou Terceira Island by Azores Airlines from:
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Portugal, there are direct flights from Lisbon, Porto, and Funchal (Madeira Island)
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In North America, there are direct flights from Boston, Providence, and Oakland (USA) and Toronto and Montreal (Canada)
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In other European countries, direct flights are from London, Frankfurt, and Gran Canaria.
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Cape Verde, there are direct flights from Santiago Island.
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OPTION: Fly to Pico Island airport. At the airport, take a taxi to Madalena do Pico and a boat to Horta, on Faial Island (a 30-minute journey along the Atlantico Line).
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WHERE TO STAY
The Island of Faial boasts an impressive selection of lodging options, such as hotels in Horta, rural hotels, hostels, pousadas, glamping, and rental houses. To guarantee your stay, we strongly recommend using reliable booking websites like Booking and Airbnb.
The primary city for the event is Horta, which houses the race secretariat, where you can collect your race packet or bib. Additionally, this city is the departure point for the buses that take you to the start lines and the arrival point for the buses that bring you back after the finish. Therefore, if you do not plan to stay in Horta, we suggest arranging transportation with your hotel or other accommodations. Most are well-prepared to assist runners, or you can book a taxi in advance.
MOBILITY ON THE ISLAND
Comprehensive Guide to Transportation and Travel Tips
Exploring the rustic beauty of Faial Island is an adventure in itself. While the island's public transportation services are somewhat limited, there are several convenient alternatives to ensure a seamless and enriching experience:
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Car Rentals: For maximum flexibility, consider renting a car. This option allows you to explore the island at your own pace. We recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred vehicle.
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Jeep Tours: Immerse yourself in the island's natural splendor with guided jeep tours. These tours offer a thrilling way to navigate the rugged terrain and discover hidden gems.
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Motorbikes and Bicycles: Renting a motorbike or bicycle is an excellent choice for a more personal exploration. Horse riding is also an option for a unique island experience. Remember, these services are limited, so early booking is advised.
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Taxi Services: Taxis are a convenient and flexible option for getting around. They are especially useful for short trips or if you prefer not to drive yourself. Taxis can be hailed in urban areas or booked in advance.
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Van Tours: Van tours are ideal for those who prefer group travel. These tours often include guided commentary, providing deeper insights into the island's history and culture.
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Special Advisory for Azores Trail Run® Athletes:
Participants in the Azores Trail Run® will benefit from dedicated bus services provided by the event organizers. These buses will transport athletes to the start lines and back from the finish lines, operating exclusively to and from Horta City. If your stay is outside Horta or if you have supporters, it’s crucial to plan your transportation. Please note that the event's transportation services are limited to athletes and do not extend to accompanying persons.
ABOUT FAIAL ISLAND
In the heart of the North Atlantic Ocean, Faial Island emerges as a captivating part of the Azores Archipelago, Portugal. This enchanting island, one of the nine jewels of the Azores, boasts a landscape sculpted by its volcanic origins. It's a place where the stark contrasts of nature come alive - dark, volcanic stones against the soft hues of sandy beaches, the deep blue of the boundless ocean meeting the lush greens of dense forests and rolling fields.
The Azores are home to Portugal's tallest peak, found on Pico Island. Rising 2,351 meters above sea level, Pico is a majestic natural monument. When measured from its base on the ocean floor, it ranks among the tallest mountains globally, piercing the vast Atlantic with its impressive height.
Faial, positioned in the Central Group of the Azorean archipelago, maybe the fourth-largest island in the area. Still, it stands as the third-largest in the hearts of its inhabitants. One can gaze upon the neighboring Pico and São Jorge Islands from its vantage points. On days when the sky is clear and the horizon unobstructed, even the distant Graciosa Island can be glimpsed, adding to the panoramic spectacle.
Connectivity from Faial is a year-round affair, with regular boat services weaving through the islands of Pico and São Jorge, offering a seamless journey across this enchanting archipelago.
The climate of Faial is a gentle embrace of temperate conditions. Winters are mild, with average temperatures around 13°C, while summers are pleasantly warm at around 24°C. The Gulf Stream's influence keeps the seawater temperatures moderate, ranging between 17°C and 23°C, creating an inviting environment for aquatic life and visitors. The island air, carrying a hint of oceanic freshness, maintains a relative humidity of about 75%, ensuring the lushness of its landscapes.
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Discover the Wonders of Faial Island: A Journey Through Nature and Adventure
Embark on a memorable journey to Faial Island, a gem nestled in the azure waters of the Atlantic. Here, the lushness of nature intertwines with thrilling activities, offering something for every explorer.
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Whale and Dolphin Watching: Immerse yourself in the marine world. Witness the majesty of whales and the playful antics of dolphins in their natural habitat.
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Beaches and Natural Swimming Pools: Relax or dive into the pristine waters, where sandy shores and unique natural pools await.
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Caldeira – The Heart of a Volcano: Stand in awe at the crater of the massive volcano that birthed the island. Choose to gaze into its depths or venture around its expansive rim.
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Natural Parks and Forest Reserves Exploration: Traverse through verdant landscapes where flora and fauna thrive in protected serenity.
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Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Center: Step into a realm where history meets nature. Learn about the birth of Portugal's newest territory following the dramatic eruption of 1957/58.
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Botanical Garden Strolls: Wander amidst a kaleidoscope of flora in the tranquil botanical gardens, a haven for plant lovers.
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Birdwatching Escapades: Equip your binoculars and set off to spot an array of exotic birds in their natural environment.
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Diving and Sailing Adventures: Plunge beneath the waves for underwater exploration or sail the seas, embracing the island’s maritime spirit.
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Horta and its Enchanting Marina: Discover Horta's vibrant culture and its marina, a crossroads for global sailors.
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Trails and Sightseeing: Lose yourself in scenic trails, each offering a unique view of the island's breathtaking landscapes.
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Biking and Horse Riding: Feel the thrill of biking across rugged terrains or experience the island’s beauty on horseback.
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Island Hopping: Extend your adventure with a boat trip to neighboring islands Pico and São Jorge, each with its own charm and mysteries.