Carapacho, Ponta da Restinga & Ilhéu de Baixo

On the south-eastern tip of the island lies the pretty little village of Carapacho, a fishing village with a tiny old fishing port that is mainly known for its centenary spa. Renovated in 1993, this spa is famous for its 40°C warm thermal spring containing sulphur and sodium chloride, which attracts many visitors who suffer from rheumatism and skin diseases. Founded in 1450, Carapacho is the oldest settlement on the island, very popular during the summer months, also because of an attractive natural swimming pool and a beautifully located camping site.

Further east of Carapacho is the Ponta da Restringa, a rocky headland marking the south-eastern end of the island, with a lighthouse dominating the red and black cliffs about 200 m above sea level and providing beautiful views of the Ilhéu de Baixo, a tiny islet lying about 1 km off-shore. The ponta as well as the islet have become popular breeding-places for many birds’ species and are therefore protected areas.

Map of Graciosa