The Brown Island

Sao Jorge is a long (56 km) and narrow (8 km wide) island with a total area of 245 sq.km, which was formed by a series of successive volcanic eruptions. The craggy coastline plunges almost vertically (400 m in parts) into the ocean with unique, frequent, small fertile flat areas (fajas) at the base of the cliffs. The central platform runs at an average height of 700m, rising to 1053 m at the highest point.

80% of the island is high pasture which supports 20,000 dairy cattle producing high quality milk from which comes the famous Sao Jorge cheese, still manufactured using traditional techniques and the original recipe.

This is an island for walking, for exploring the little settlements on the fajas along the coast by car, for admiring the stunning scenery and visiting the two small port towns of Velas and Calheta. 16 km across the water is Pico (accessible in one hour by boat) where a 2,351 m volcano dominates the skyline and seems but a stone’s throw away.

Festivals on Sao Jorge

• Espírito Santo (Holy Ghost festival) – 11 - 13 May
• Cultural week (Velas) takes place 02 - 07 July. This festival includes folk music performances, sporting events and regional gastronomy to name but a few of the attractions