Best Hiking Trails in the Azores

Hiking in the Azores is one of the best ways to take in the beauty of these lush, volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic. It’s no surprise that so many visitors choose to explore on foot. With over 80 official trails, you’ll find everything from sweeping ocean views to quiet, untouched landscapes. Some paths take you through peaceful forests, while others lead to dramatic cliffs or hidden lagoons.

But I won’t give it all away—keep reading to discover the best hiking trails in the Azores.

Hiking The Azores​

Hiking trails in the Azores are generally easy to navigate, with a few more challenging exceptions. Each route varies in length, landscape, difficulty, and altitude, making it easy to choose one that suits your preferences. To help with that, this guide covers everything needed for a great hiking experience in the Azores.

Official Azores Hiking Trails

Sticking to official trails is always a good idea when hiking in the Azores. These routes are approved, maintained, and clearly marked by the Azores Tourism Board to ensure safety and accessibility.

The board’s website provides detailed maps and step-by-step guides for each trail, making navigation straightforward. It’s a valuable resource for planning hikes and discovering the most scenic and well-maintained paths.

Off the Beaten Path Trails

It’s easy to wander off official trails in the Azores—many unmarked paths look like natural extensions of the main routes. However, these unofficial trails are not maintained or signposted, which means they can be more unpredictable and potentially unsafe.

If navigation becomes tricky, offline map apps like MAPS.ME can be useful for finding the way back to a marked trail. With the right tools, even a wrong turn can become part of the adventure.

Types of hiking trails in the Azores​

Hiking trails in the Azores fall into two categories: circular and linear. Circular trails bring hikers back to their starting point, making them convenient and easy to plan. Linear trails, however, start in one place and end in another, requiring some logistics to return.

For linear hikes, arranging transportation in advance is a good idea, whether by taxi, bus, or other local options. Planning ahead ensures a smooth experience without the worry of getting back. Check available transport options here: Visit Azores Transport Guide

Hiking Trails in The Azores

With so many incredible trails across the Azores, choosing where to start can be a challenge. Each island offers something unique, making the entire archipelago a paradise for hikers. That’s where this guide comes in—helping narrow down the best routes for an unforgettable hiking experience.

São Miguel stands out with 22 marked trails, offering a variety of landscapes and breathtaking views. Pico, home to 13 trails, includes a route to Portugal’s highest peak—a must for those looking for a challenge. Additionally, five of the islands feature Grand Routes, long-distance trails that showcase the best of the Azores’ wild beauty.

With so many options, the hardest part is picking the first trail. Check out the best hikes in the Azores below. 

São Miguel Hiking Trails

São Miguel is renowned as one of the best islands in the Azores for hiking. It offers a variety of trails that lead to stunning landscapes, from ocean views to volcanic craters, dense laurel forests, and hidden waterfalls. Hiking here is an adventure through some of the most beautiful spots in the archipelago. Below are some of the best trails on São Miguel.

Vista do Rei – Sete Cidades Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Vista do Rei Viewpoint
• End Point: Sete Cidades village
• Type: Linear
• Distance: 8 km
• Time: 2 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

This is one of the most famous hikes in the Azores. Starting at the Vista do Rei viewpoint, the trail offers panoramic views over the iconic Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul. These two lakes, located in volcanic craters, are among the most photographed spots on the island. As you descend to Sete Cidades village, there’s also the opportunity to visit the nearby Igreja de São Nicolau.

Mata do Canário – Sete Cidades Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Canário Lake
• End Point: Sete Cidades village
• Type: Linear
• Distance: 12 km
• Time: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

This trail takes a slightly different route around Sete Cidades, starting from the tranquil Canário Lake. The path winds through lush forests, past old aqueducts, and up to the Pico da Cruz viewpoint, where there are fantastic views over Santiago Lake. The hike continues through the hills surrounding the lakes before descending into the village of Sete Cidades.

Praia – Lagoa do Fogo Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Pico da Barrosa
• End Point: Lagoa do Fogo
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 11 km
• Time: 4 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

Lagoa do Fogo is a mystical lake surrounded by rich laurel forest, giving it a unique, almost Jurassic vibe. The hike starts at the Pico da Barrosa viewpoint, offering great views of the lake and the surrounding area. From there, the trail descends to the lake’s shores, passing through fields and forests, eventually leading to the pristine lakeside.

Sanguinho Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Faial da Terra
• End Point: Salto do Prego / Cagarrão
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 5 km
• Time: 2 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

Known for its serene pathways, the Sanguinho trail takes hikers through thick laurel forest to the Salto do Prego waterfall. The trail begins in Faial da Terra and gradually ascends before reaching a crossroad where hikers can choose to continue to Salto do Prego waterfall or the Cagarrão waterfall.

Lagoa das Furnas Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Largo das Três Bicas
• End Point: Furnas city
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 10 km
• Time: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

The Furnas lake loop is a peaceful, almost mystical hike, passing through the heart of Furnas. The trail passes the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias, a gothic 19th-century church, as well as the famous Furnas hot springs, where the traditional “Cozido à Portuguesa” is cooked using the geothermal heat from the volcanic ground.

Chá Gorreana Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Chá Gorreana Tea Factory
• End Point: Chá Gorreana Tea Factory
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 4 km
• Time: 2 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

This trail offers a unique hiking experience through Europe’s only tea plantation. The Chá Gorreana Tea Factory, established in 1883, is located on a lush hillside. As you walk around the plantation, enjoy the views of the ocean and the verdant landscape of São Miguel.

Moinhos da Ribeira Funda Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Aflição
• End Point: Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Aflição
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 4 km
• Time: 2 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

This trail takes you through a scenic cedar forest, where you’ll discover old watermills, known as Moinhos do Crim, and traditional levadas used for irrigation. Along the way, the trail passes through several beautiful viewpoints, including the Cascatas da Ribeira Funda.

Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande – Salto do Cabrito Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Caldeiras of Ribeira Grande
• End Point: Caldeiras of Ribeira Grande
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 9 km
• Time: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

This trail is perfect for exploring São Miguel’s volcanic landscape. Starting at the Caldeiras of Ribeira Grande, you’ll hike through lush vegetation before reaching the Salto do Cabrito waterfall. The path offers quiet moments in the gorge and the chance to continue toward the hot springs of Ribeira Grande.

Padrão das Alminhas – Salto da Farinha Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Historical Standard of Alminhas monument
• End Point: Miradouro do Salto do Farinha
• Type: Linear
• Distance: 5 km
• Time: 2 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

This trail links the northern villages of Achadinha and Salga. Starting at the Historical Standard of Alminhas, it follows a series of waterfalls, including the Poço Azul, and crosses the Ponte de Nosso Senhor bridge before reaching Salto da Farinha waterfall. The hike ends at the Miradouro do Salto do Farinha with panoramic views.

Serra Devassa Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Forest Park of Mata do Canário
• End Point: Forest Park of Mata do Canário
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 5 km
• Time: 2 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

This hike takes you around volcanic cones, starting from the Mata do Canário forest park. Along the way, you’ll encounter the Pau Pique lake and the ruins of the Muro das Nove Janelas aqueduct, a key structure for early water supply to Ponta Delgada. The hike culminates at the Empadadas lake with beautiful surrounding views.

Pico das Camarinhas – Ponta da Ferraria Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Viewpoint of Ilha Sabrina
• End Point: Piscina Termal Natural
• Type: Linear
• Distance: 5 km
• Time: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

For a more relaxed hike, head to Ponta da Ferraria. This trail offers stunning views from the Pico das Camarinhas, followed by a descent to the natural thermal pools in the ocean at Piscina Termal Natural. Here, you can enjoy a soak in the warm waters heated by geothermal activity.

Pico da Vara Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Forest Guard House of the Reserve of Atalhada
• End Point: Pico da Vara
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 7 km
• Time: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Hard

This challenging trail takes you through the island’s ridges and offers some of the best views on São Miguel. It starts from the Forest Guard House and leads to the summit of Pico da Vara, the island’s highest peak, where you can take in stunning vistas over volcanic craters, lakes, and the surrounding landscape.

Rota da Água – Janela do Inferno Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Casa da Água – Trail Point
• End Point: Janela do Inferno
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 7 km
• Time: 2.5 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

This trail is one of the most picturesque hikes in São Miguel, taking hikers through lush forests and along scenic paths to the Janela do Inferno, a dramatic viewpoint where waterfalls cascade into a volcanic gorge. Along the way, enjoy the beautiful landscapes, crossing streams and walking through dense, misty woodlands. The trail offers a great balance of challenge and reward.

Terceira Hiking Trails

The island of Terceira, often called the “Third Island” of the Azores, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, with the capital, Angra do Heroísmo, being a major attraction for history enthusiasts. However, beyond its cultural offerings, Terceira also boasts a variety of hiking trails that are among the best in the Azores. These trails, while not as steep as those on São Miguel, still offer scenic views and pleasant walking experiences. Hiking in Terceira tends to be less strenuous, though the level of challenge can depend on your physical condition.

Here are some of the top hikes in Terceira:

Mistérios Negros Trail

• Starting Point: Lagoa do Negro
• End Point: Lagoa do Negro
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 5 km
• Time: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Hard

This challenging trail takes hikers through Terceira’s Natural Reserve, including the Serra de Santa Bárbara and Mistérios Negros Natural Park. Along the way, you’ll pass by caves and reach several peaks offering expansive views. Starting at Lagoa do Negro, the trail leads through lush terrain and features the Lagoinhas do Vale Funda, a series of small lakes, one of which remains filled year-round. Towards the end of the hike, you’ll come across the imposing Pico da Cancela and Pico Gordo. If you’re feeling up for it, you can try climbing Pico do Gaspar, though caution is advised as it’s an active volcanic cone.

Serreta Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Canada da Fonte
• End Point: Canada da Fonte
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 7 km
• Time: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

This scenic trail takes you through the heart of Terceira’s Natural Park, offering a chance to observe unique Azorean endemic plants like Juniper and Laurustinus. Beginning at the crossroad of Canada da Fonte, the trail winds through dense vegetation and reaches Lagoinha, a small lake nestled in the caldera of an ancient volcano. Continuing on, you’ll pass through Ribeira do Além, an expansive valley, and then climb to Pico do Negrão for a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscape before making your way back.

Algar do Carvão – Furnas do Enxofre Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Algar do Carvão
• End Point: Algar do Carvão
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 6 km
• Time: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

Connecting two of Terceira’s most iconic natural wonders, this trail begins at Algar do Carvão, a volcanic cave known for its remarkable geological features. After exploring the cave, the trail moves through Terceira’s forested areas, where panoramic views of Pico da Salsa, Pico Tamujo, and Sanguinhal await. The trail continues to the Furnas do Enxofre, a geothermal area with geysers and steam vents. Following a wooden pathway for safety, hikers can explore the site before heading towards the viewpoint of Pico do Sanguinha for a final scenic look at the island’s volcanic landscape.

Monte Brasil Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Free Parking Monte Brasil/Relvão
• End Point: Relvão
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 7 km
• Time: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

Monte Brasil, formed by an ancient extinct volcano, offers one of the most accessible hiking experiences on Terceira. The trail begins at Relvão and takes you up to Pico do Facho, where you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the bay of Angra do Heroísmo. The hike continues through Monte Brasil’s lush forest, home to wildlife like deer. The path loops back via Pico das Cruzinhas, offering more beautiful vistas before returning to Relvão.

Sao Jorge Hiking Trails

São Jorge is an often-overlooked gem in the Azores archipelago, but it’s an island that’s well worth a visit for avid hikers. With its lush endemic vegetation, dramatic cliffs, and expansive views, it offers a true hiking adventure. São Jorge has 6 hiking trails and 1 Grand Route that runs along its steep cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the island and the Atlantic Ocean.

Here are some of the top hiking trails in São Jorge:

Pico do Pedro – Pico da Esperança – Fajã do Ouvidor

• Starting Point: Pico do Pedro
• End Point: Fajã do Ouvidor
• Type: Linear
• Distance: 17 km
• Time: 4 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

This trail offers a remarkable journey across the peaks of São Jorge. It starts at Pico do Pedro and continues to Pico da Esperança, the island’s highest point, providing sweeping views of São Jorge and the surrounding ocean. The hike follows the central volcanic range, which reaches heights of 800 to 1,000 meters, allowing you to explore the island’s protected areas. Along the way, you’ll encounter other notable peaks such as Carvão, Junça, Verde, Montoso, and Morro Pelado. At Pico da Esperança, there’s a crater lake where you can rest before continuing your journey down to Fajã do Ouvidor, with a stop at the Miradouro da Fajã do Ouvidor offering a view of the fishing village below.

Serra do Topo – Caldeira do Santo Cristo – Fajã dos Cubres

• Starting Point: Park of Serra do Topo
• End Point: Fajã dos Cubres
• Type: Linear
• Distance: 10 km
• Time: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

This trail takes you through some of São Jorge’s most beautiful landscapes. Starting at the Park of Serra do Topo, you’ll walk through areas rich with endemic flora and observe local bird species. Continuing on, you’ll cross the Tia Júlia bridge, reach the beautiful Cascata Pequena waterfall, and proceed to the Miradouro da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, where you can enjoy views of the Caldeira Santo Cristo Lake, a protected habitat for birds and clams. The hike ends at Fajã dos Cubres, where you’ll find the church of Nossa Senhora de Lourdes, completing a stunning loop of natural beauty.

Fajã de Além Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Chapel of Santo António
• End Point: Chapel of Santo António
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 5 km
• Time: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Hard

For those looking to explore one of São Jorge’s most remote areas, the Fajã de Além Hiking Trail is a must. The trail begins at the Chapel of Santo António and follows a descending path with panoramic views of Fajãs de Além, Ouvido, and Ribeira da Areia. On clear days, you can spot the neighboring islands of Graciosa and Terceira in the distance. As you continue, you’ll pass by traditional rural houses, wine cellars, and a watermill, offering a glimpse into the island’s agricultural history. After reaching Fajã d’Além, the hardest part of the hike begins as you ascend back up, but the effort is well worth it for the stunning views that unfold during the climb.

Pico Hiking Trails

Pico Island, part of the central group of the Azores, is known for its towering Mount Pico, which rises to an impressive 2,351 meters above sea level. It’s a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts, offering 13 hiking trails, including a famed trail that leads to the summit of Mount Pico. Hiking here is among the best in the Azores, and on clear days, you may be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding islands.

Here are some of the top hiking trails on Pico Island:

Caminho das Lagoas Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: EN 2
• End Point: Ribeirinha
• Type: Linear
• Distance: 23 km
• Time: 7 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

For those looking to explore the beautiful lakes of Pico Island, the Caminho das Lagoas trail is perfect. This trail begins on the main road (EN 2) near the Forest Services house and leads you to the first lake, Lagoa Caiado, offering views of both the ocean and Mount Pico. As you continue, you’ll pass Lagoa Seca, Lagoas do Peixinho, and Lagoa do Paúl before reaching Lagoa da Rosada, located near one of the highest hills on the trail. From here, you can enjoy views of the islands of Terceira and São Jorge. Afterward, the trail takes you through Lagoas do Peixinho and José Inácio, concluding in Ribeirinha.

Canadas da Ribeirinha Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Terra Alta
• End Point: Calhau
• Type: Linear
• Distance: 9 km
• Time: 4 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

The Canadas da Ribeirinha trail is a wonderful way to explore the endemic flora of Pico Island while also taking in some spectacular views. The trail begins on the road of Terra Alta and leads you down to the village of Ribeirinha, passing through the Miradouro da Terra Alta and Miradouro do Alto dos Cedros. Along the way, you’ll enjoy vistas of São Jorge Island. Continuing down, you’ll reach Canada do Mar, where you can explore the famous wine cellars of Pico. The trail finishes in Calhau, where you can relax and enjoy views of Ponta Gorda and Ponta das Trombetas.

Vinhas da Criação Velha Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Porto do Calhau
• End Point: Madalena
• Type: Linear
• Distance: 7 km
• Time: 2 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

For wine lovers, the Vinhas da Criação Velha hiking trail offers a chance to explore the UNESCO World Heritage vineyard region of Pico Island. Starting at Porto do Calhau, the trail leads you through the famous vineyards of Pico, taking you all the way to the village of Madalena. Along the way, you’ll pass through areas where the traditional methods of wine production are still in use, and you can visit several wine cellars. You’ll also encounter the Laja das Rosas natural pools and have a beautiful view of the nearby island of Faial. The trail ends in Madalena, where you can explore more of the island’s culture.

Mount Pico Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Casa da Montanha
• End Point: Casa da Montanha
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 4 km
• Time: 8 hours
• Difficulty: Hard

Climbing Mount Pico is the ultimate hiking experience on the island. This trail, while challenging, offers one of the most rewarding hikes in the Azores. Reaching the summit of Mount Pico at 2,351 meters requires preparation, but the view from the top is nothing short of breathtaking. The hike begins at Casa da Montanha and ascends steadily to the peak. Along the way, hikers will pass through Piquino, another peak, where many take a rest before continuing. Once at the top, if the weather permits, you can enjoy panoramic views of the nearby islands of Faial and São Jorge. Given the difficulty, it’s recommended to hire a guide for safety and the best experience.

Faial Hiking Trails

Faial Island, often referred to as the “Blue Island,” is one of the most visited islands in the Azores. The island earned its name from the vast hydrangea bushes that once covered the land. Today, Faial is known for its moon-like landscapes, which were shaped by a massive volcanic eruption in 1957. This eruption created a new island, though short-lived, and left parts of the island uninhabited.

With 9 hiking trails and 1 Grand Route, Faial offers numerous opportunities to explore its dramatic natural beauty. While many of these trails are challenging, they offer rewarding experiences.

Dez Vulcões Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Caldeira of Faial viewpoint
• End Point: Capelinhos
• Type: Linear
• Distance: 20 km
• Time: 5 hours
• Difficulty: Hard

The Dez Vulcões trail is one of the most scenic hikes on Faial Island, taking you through both the Caldeira of Faial and the Capelinhos Volcano. Start at the Caldeira viewpoint to enjoy breathtaking views of the Azores. From here, descend the west slope to reach a dirt road leading you to Cabeço dos Trinta. Along the way, pass through forests and tunnels, and visit Cabeço do Fogo for more spectacular views. Continue on until you reach Capelinhos Volcano, a site of significant historical importance. The eruption in 1957 changed the island’s landscape dramatically, and the area is now a protected site. This hike requires clear weather for the best visibility.

Caminhos Velhos Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Ribeirinha
• End Point: Caldeira of Faial
• Type: Linear
• Distance: 18 km
• Time: 7 hours
• Difficulty: Hard

The Caminhos Velhos trail offers a challenging but rewarding hike starting from the village of Ribeirinha. On your way, you’ll pass the ruins of the São Mateus Church, which was destroyed by an earthquake in 1998. Continuing through the Boca da Ribeira harbor, you’ll reach the Lighthouse of Ribeirinha, a notable spot on the island. As you continue, take in the views at the Ribeirinha viewpoint before walking through Espalhafatos and into the Lomba Grande forest area. The trail leads you to the Charcos of Pedro Miguel, a place where birdwatchers gather, before ending at the Caldeira of Faial.

Caldeira Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Caldeira of Faial viewpoint
• End Point: Caldeira of Faial viewpoint
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 7 km
• Time: 2:30 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

The Caldeira Hiking Trail is a circular trail that allows you to explore the Natural Reserve of the Caldeira of Faial, a crater formed over 400,000 years ago. The trail starts at the Caldeira viewpoint and takes you through a tunnel for a close-up view of the crater. You’ll then walk toward the Chapel of São João, a perfect spot for a rest. Afterward, you’ll continue to the highest point of the trail, Cabeço Gordo, where you can enjoy spectacular views of Capelinhos Volcano and the island. The trail then loops back to the Caldeira viewpoint.

Cabeço do Canto Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Cabeço Verde
• End Point: Cabeço Verde
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 3 km
• Time: 2 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

For those interested in volcanic landscapes, the Cabeço do Canto trail is a fantastic option. This trail takes you through the volcanic ridge of Península do Cabeço, where you’ll encounter 20 volcanic cones scattered across the area. Starting at Cabeço Verde road, you’ll enter the forest near the Furna Ruim lava cave, which is 55 meters deep. From here, the trail leads you to Algar do Caldeirão, and then to Cabeço do Canto, where you’ll enjoy views of the Capelinhos Volcano. After exploring the area, retrace your steps to Cabeço Verde.

Flores Hiking Trails

Flores Island is one of the most isolated islands in the Azores, but this only adds to its charm. Known for its stunning waterfalls, Flores offers some of the best hiking experiences in the Azores, if not all of Europe. The island is peaceful and offers a true escape from the hustle and bustle of the world. With 4 hiking trails and the Great Route of Flores, you are bound to find a trail that suits your needs. Each hike promises to be an unforgettable adventure.

Lajedo – Fajã Grande Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Lajedo center
• End Point: Miradouro das Lagoas
• Type: Linear
• Distance: 13 km
• Time: 3-4 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

The Lajedo to Fajã Grande hiking trail is one of the must-see trails on Flores Island. Starting at the village center of Lajedo, the trail leads you through breathtaking vistas. As you proceed, enjoy the view over the Mosteiro islets and see the impressive Rocha dos Bordões, a Natural Monument. The hike continues with distant views of the villages of Fajãzinha and Fajã Grande. The trail then descends toward Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro, one of Flores’ most photographed spots. The trail ends at the Miradouro das Lagoas, also known as Poço do Bacalhau, where you can take in even more beautiful views of the island.

Fajã de Lopo Vaz Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Fajã de Lopo Vaz
• End Point: Fajã de Lopo Vaz
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 4 km
• Time: 2 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

For a more relaxed hike, the Fajã de Lopo Vaz trail is a perfect choice. Starting and ending at the geosite of Fajã de Lopo Vaz, this trail offers spectacular views of the island. The trail takes you through cliff ridges and hills, where you’ll need to tread carefully. Along the way, you’ll pass by remote abandoned houses and witness the island’s diverse birdlife, including chaffinches and blackbirds. The trail eventually leads you to a pebble beach where you can take a break before finishing the loop.

Miradouro das Lagoas – Poço do Bacalhau Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Miradouro das Lagoas
• End Point: Poço do Bacalhau
• Type: Linear
• Distance: 7 km
• Time: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Hard

The Miradouro das Lagoas to Poço do Bacalhau trail is perfect for those who want to experience some of the most iconic sites of Flores Island. Start at the Miradouro das Lagoas, where you can take in views of the beautiful lakes of Comprida and Funda. As you continue along the path, cross to the right side of Lake Comprida to reach Lake Branca. Proceed along a red gravel road that offers magnificent views over the villages of Fajã Grande and Fajãzinha. The trail ends at Poço do Bacalhau, one of the most stunning and visited points in the Azores. This magical spot is sure to leave you in awe of the island’s natural beauty.

Corvo Hiking Trails

Corvo is the smallest and most remote island in the Azores archipelago. Despite its size, with just 384 inhabitants, it offers some of the most authentic and untouched landscapes in the region. While the island may be small, it boasts two incredible hiking trails that showcase the island’s beauty. Whether you’re a nature lover or someone looking for peaceful solitude, these trails will offer you breathtaking views and memorable experiences.

Caldeirão Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Viewpoint of Caldeirão
• End Point: Viewpoint of Caldeirão
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 5 km
• Time: 2-3 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

The Caldeirão Hiking Trail is a must when visiting Corvo Island. This circular trail takes you around the Caldeira of Corvo, a massive volcanic crater that dominates the island’s landscape. Starting at the viewpoint, you can take in the stunning views before descending around the caldera to reach its tranquil lakes. After enjoying the serene atmosphere, you’ll ascend back to the viewpoint, completing the loop. Along the way, keep an eye out for the diverse bird species that inhabit Corvo, and if the weather is clear, you may even catch a glimpse of Flores Island in the distance.

Cara do Índio Hiking Trail

• Starting Point: Viewpoint of Caldeirão
• End Point: Vila do Corvo
• Type: Linear
• Distance: 10 km
• Time: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Medium

For those looking to explore more of Corvo Island, the Cara do Índio trail is a fantastic option. Starting from the viewpoint of Caldeirão, this linear trail takes you down to the city of Corvo. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush, green fields and come across the unique Cara do Índio cliff formation. As you continue, you’ll reach the viewpoint of Vila do Corvo, where you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the entire city. The trail ends as you make your way up into the village, where you can enjoy the charm of Corvo and its peaceful atmosphere.

Graciosa Hiking Trails

Graciosa, also known as the “White Island,” is part of the northern Azorean island group and is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Despite being one of the smallest islands in the Azores, Graciosa offers visitors an excellent opportunity to experience diverse landscapes and fascinating geological formations. The island has four hiking trails and one Great Route, each providing access to different scenic spots. Graciosa’s hiking trails allow you to explore the island from multiple perspectives, showcasing its natural beauty.

Volta à Caldeira – Furna do Enxofre

• Starting Point: Canada Longa
• End Point: Canada Longa
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 10 km
• Time: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

The Volta à Caldeira – Furna do Enxofre trail is one of the best hiking experiences in the Azores. This circular trail takes you through the Natural Monument of the Caldeira and allows you to visit the spectacular Furna do Enxofre, a large lava cave on the island. Starting from Canada Longa, you’ll make your way through a lava tunnel (Furna do Abel) before reaching the top of the Caldeira, where you can enjoy some of the most mesmerizing views in the Azores. Afterward, you’ll continue to Furna do Enxofre. It is best to visit the cave between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM for the best experience. Afterward, you’ll return to the starting point at Canada Longa.

Serra Branca – Praia

• Starting Point: Pico da Caldeirinha
• End Point: Porto do Praia
• Type: Linear
• Distance: 9 km
• Time: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

The Serra Branca – Praia trail takes you across the island from west to east, offering views of various parts of Graciosa. Starting at Pico da Caldeirinha, the trail leads you around a volcano cone, offering stunning panoramas. You’ll continue along the path to Barro Branco and then through the Nevoeiro alley, a small and beautiful trail surrounded by endemic flora. The journey finishes at Praia, where you’ll find the Praia Islet and the old windmill of the village, which are excellent spots for photos and to appreciate the island’s charm.

Santa Maria Hiking Trails

Santa Maria, one of the smallest islands in the Azores, holds a unique place in the archipelago’s history as one of the first islands to be discovered and settled. Known for its sunny weather, beautiful sandy beaches, and remarkable landscapes, Santa Maria offers more than just relaxation by the sea. The island is home to five hiking trails and one Great Route, making it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The island’s hiking trails provide stunning vistas and a chance to explore its diverse natural beauty.

Santo Espírito – Maia

• Starting Point: Santo Espírito church
• End Point: Piscinas da Maia
• Type: Linear
• Distance: 4 km
• Time: 2 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

This easy, linear trail connects the village of Santo Espírito to Maia and offers hikers the chance to explore some of the island’s most beautiful features. Start at Santo Espírito church and pass by the Ethnographic Museum of Santa Maria. As you descend, follow the path to Caminho da Lapa, where you will encounter the stunning Aveiro Waterfall, an 80-meter-high cascade that’s a must-see. Continue on to Ponta do Cedro and then to Vinhas do Maia, an area with vineyards and some of the oldest winepresses dating back to the 16th century. The final destination is the beautiful Piscinas da Maia, natural swimming pools created by volcanic rock, which is a perfect spot to relax after the hike.

Pico Alto

• Starting Point: Miradouro Pico Alto
• End Point: Miradouro Pico Alto
• Type: Circular
• Distance: 6 km
• Time: 2 hours
  
• Difficulty: Medium
  

The Pico Alto trail is perfect for those who love spectacular vistas. Starting at the Miradouro Pico Alto viewpoint, the trail offers breathtaking views of Santa Maria Island and the vast Atlantic Ocean. As you continue along the trail, you’ll reach the Caldeira viewpoint, where you’ll be treated to views of the island’s west coast. The trail also includes a stop at a monument built in honor of the victims of the 1989 aviation accident in Portugal. After enjoying the views and the quietude, simply retrace your steps to return to the starting point.

Tips for Hiking in the Azores

Hiking in the Azores is an unforgettable experience, offering jaw-dropping views and an exhilarating sense of adventure. But, like any outdoor activity, it’s important to take some precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

Before You Go Hiking in the Azores

The Azores is a hiker’s paradise, but it’s essential to be prepared. Start by researching your chosen trail: How long is it? Is it challenging? Are there steep climbs or any specific skills required? The weather is notoriously unpredictable in the Azores, so always check the forecast before heading out—webcams can be helpful for getting a live view of the conditions. It’s also a good idea to let someone know your plans—where you’re going and when you expect to be back.

Make sure you’re equipped with warm clothing, plenty of water, and snacks. A First Aid Kit is always a smart addition, just in case. One piece of advice: avoid drinking water from streams, as it isn’t safe for consumption.

During Your Hike

When you hit the trail, the most important thing is to stay mindful of your surroundings. Pay close attention to trail signs, especially in areas where fog can roll in quickly. If you need to take a break, remember to respect nature by leaving no trace—pack out all your trash and leave rocks, plants, and other natural objects where you found them. And while you’re enjoying the beauty of the island, let the sound of nature be your soundtrack.

If you’re hiking with pets, keep them under control at all times. It’s also a good idea to let others go ahead if they’re moving at a faster pace—hiking is about enjoyment, and everyone should have the space to appreciate the trails.

What to Wear in the Azores?

Comfort is key when hiking in the Azores. Make sure to wear appropriate, breathable clothing that allows for movement. Layer up with additional warm clothes—this is particularly important as temperatures can change quickly. Hiking shoes are a must—waterproof ones are ideal, given the often muddy and wet terrain. Don’t forget essentials like a hat for sun protection, sunscreen to safeguard against the strong UV rays, and a camera to capture the stunning views. And most importantly, have fun! The Azores are a place to disconnect from the world and connect with nature, so make the most of it.

With these tips in mind, you’re all set to explore the stunning trails of the Azores islands. Whether you’re traversing volcanic craters, trekking through lush forests, or wandering along dramatic coastlines, the Azores offers a hiking experience like no other. Happy trails!

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