Car Hire Horta - Mini guide to Horta
Horta
Nestled in the heart of the unspoiled Azores, Faial Island abounds with shimmering lakes, green grasslands, and a vivid array of flowers originally used to make dye. Enjoying mild temperatures all year, its sheltered and historic town of Horta retains its relaxed, old world charm, irresistibly inviting to visitors from around the world.
First settled by the Flemish in the 15th century, this once rich settlement was raided continually by Sir Walter Raleigh, the Duke of Essex and the Duke of Cumberland. More than a hundred years’ worth of paintings and messages left by travelling seamen cover the sea wall of Horta's bustling port, and a fine collection of antiques and nautical memorabilia can be found in the town's local museum.
Famed for its 16th century storybook villages, sandy inlets, hydrangea and azalea blooms, the island also supports the Vulcano dos Capelinhos that erupted in 1957, and a volcanic crater 400 metres deep. A favourite port of call for yachtsmen, Horta now serves as a departure point for deep sea fishing, whale and dolphin watching, and scuba diving trips.
The ‘Blue Island,’ so dubbed for the different shades of blue painted houses, holds a variety of enchanting restaurants, antique shops, and cafés. Chez Peter Café, a popular haunt for tourists, displays several curiosities. The island's stress-free environment is best enjoyed by hired car for a relaxing journey into its peaceful countryside.
Flights to the archipelago of the Azores and between the islands are serviced by the regional airline SATA from Lisbon, with ferry routes to Ilha do Pico, Ilha de São Jorge and Ilha Terceira. The picturesque plantations of Vale de Flamengos, as well as Lajinha and Ponta Furada caves, are all within a short drive from Horta by hire car. By arranging a rental car in advance online you can take advantage of great discounts.
Car hire deals in: Portugal
We rent the following types of cars: Economy (Vauxhall Corsa or equiv.), Mini, Small family (Ford Focus or equiv.), Medium family (Toyota Avensis or equiv.), large family (BMW 5 series), 4x4, SUV, Convertible, Van, Sports car, Luxury cars.
Hire cheap cars from the following suppliers, Ebookers, Opodo, Avis, Expedia, Sixt, Thrifty and budget rental prices from EasyCar, Budget, Holiday Autos, Economy, 121carhire.
