Finding Beauty with Imperfection

Category: Lighthouse

Coastal Lighthouse Hike

Thursday we had an easy coastal hike to see the coast, obviously, and also two lighthouses. A volcanic eruption lasting from September 1957 until October 1958 caused the land to 2.4 square km. The reason there are two lighthouses is because the original one has been shut down since the eruption and the new lighthouse was constructed. We have noticed the lighthouses on the islands seem to be very utilitarian vice scenic. Perhaps, the Portuguese don’t want to take away from the beauty of the land and the ocean…

The hike along the coast was beautiful. All the volcanic rocks! They were so jagged and rough. It’s amazing to think these were projected during the explosion.

Peering over the edge, the jagged lava rocks have been completely smoothed by the waves. The power of water is intense!

There was cute little beach area that had umbrellas and swimming access.

Waves

We finished the last part of the hike up to the old lighthouse. This one we were able to climb to the top. Also, they have a museum built underground. The circle is the roof of the museum.

The area now is protected because there are several species of birds nesting in the rocks and cliffs. Here is a video from the top of the lighthouse. I zoomed in to see the birds.

Spiral stairs in lighthouse

After our hike, museum tour and lighthouse climb, we met our driver, Jeffery, who drove us back to town. We found a nice little cafe to enjoy lunch with a view of Mt Pico and the company of bird friends.

We had a few hours to burn this afternoon before our flight back to Ponta Delgado. We shopped the town and took more pictures of the fun street designs.

One final wave goodbye to Faisal as we board our flight!

Off we go! Back to Ponta Delgado. We have one more full day of adventure before we head home. As always, thanks for reading!

Acadia NP Day 4

For our final day in Acadia NP we decided to explore the lesser known/ lesser traveled west peninsula of Mount Desert Island.

Acadia National Park

We tuned into our favorite narrator “Albert” as we drove. He provides entertainment and information. Our first stop was at the Beech Mountain trail head. Beech Mountain trail is a short loop that climbs up giving you spectacular views of Bass Harbor and Long Pond. Both were lovely.

I took this picture because this tree is already fighting! He’s growing on the granite rocks! I can only imagine how impressive he will be in the next 20-30 years. Grow strong, friend!

The summit view and breeze were worth the steps!

The descent included beautiful views of Long Pond.

After our hike, we jumped in the car and returned to Alfred’s narration. He recommended we stop in Southwest Harbor and walk the town. I am happy we listened. We stopped for ice cream and I was able to get my Maine Blueberry 🫐 ice cream. It was so delicious.

Continuing the drive, we headed to Ship Harbor Trail. This trail is flat, family friendly and has forest and shore views. As well as a few boardwalk trails.

The pink granite that makes up most of Acadia was on full display along this part of the coast. So beautiful!

The trail was a figure 8 which gave us a chance to see more of the forest.

Once we completed the hike, we jumped in the car and drove a half mile up the road to hike the Wonderland trail. This trail was a short flat out and back.

Those hikes were perfectly lovely. The reviews I read gave them much more positive feedback. I would give them a sold 5/10. Again, great for kids and families.

We returned to the car for one final stop on this peninsula. We needed to snap a picture of the famous Bass Harbor Lighthouse. It’s still there and still photogenic.

For our final vacation dinner, Dave made us reservations at Havana in Bar Harbor. We ordered cocktails and that’s when I noticed the card on the table. So cute, the staff gave me a happy birthday card.

For dinner Dave ordered paella and I order one final lobster dish. Both were delicious.

The Lobster Moqueca was incredible. The dish is made with coconut cream, onion, red peppers, and lime juice. It was served with jasmine rice and lots of lobster!

We didn’t have room for dessert, but, they had a sweet surprise.

Thank you for following along with me as we explored Acadia NP. Although, a smaller national park, it has so many hidden treasures and amazing hikes. We didn’t do everything- we did what we could and enjoyed every moment. Until next time!

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