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An
enormous cavern penetratingthe very depths of the earth. Vineyards
sprout between the walls of black stone. The white silhouette of a
windmill stands out against the blue sky. The serenity of a life
practically cut off from the rest of the world, following the rhythms
of the seassons. This the universe of the small island of Graciosa,
framed by the white, frothing sea. Where each day of your holiday is a
refreshing pause or a deep encounter with serenity.
From vineyards in
"corrals" to art treasures
Discovering Graciosa means taking a stroll
trough the checked pattern of green vines bordered by "corrals"
walls of hardened lava. Stroll up the rolling hills and you will
discover quite magnificent vantage points. Admire the luxuriant
vegetation of the Crater. Enter the very depths of a dormant volcano
in Furna do Enxofre and discover its mysterious underground lake.
Discover the deep inlets and islets of the coastline, the stuff dreams
are mad of.
Santa Cruz´s streets lined with small white-washed houses take the
visitor one or two centuries back in time. The main church houses
valuable Portuguese paintings dating from the 16th century.
Holidays in Graciosa
are simple, healthy and calm. When it is finally time to say farewell,
it is as if you are leaving "the land that time forgot".
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Where
there are vineyards, there is wine
The whites and reds of Graciosa
form the ideal complement to the fresh fish, shellfish
and meat dishes offered up by local cuisine. To round
off your meal, nothing goes down better than a
traditional dessert and a glass of aguardente (brandy),
distiled in old copper stills.
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