It’s the perfect island destination for fans of UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, natural spas, and windmills.
Graciosa, also known as the white island, seems to be almost off tourists’ radar. It’s a shame because, as you’ll see, the gracious island has more to offer than meets the eye. Good things do come in small packages.
The year of its discovery is uncertain, but the island was probably used, at first, as land for growing cattle in the 1430s.
Later, in 1485, settlers from the Portuguese mainland and the Flanders region of Belgium arrived. The Flemish influence is notorious in the architectural style of the red-roofed windmills, which are among the most recognizable symbols of the island.
Graciosa is the second smallest island in the archipelago, and it’s a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2007. That is both an honor and a responsibility. It sets the tone of action for all islands concerning conservation and sustainable growth.
Besides the windmills and the eco-diversity, Graciosa is famous for its sulfurous cave, 40 meters (131 feet) deep, that you reach by descending a 183-step spiral staircase. Quite a unique way to visit a volcanic cave, isn’t it?