Guidebook Azores Nature Parks by Parques Naturais dos Açores

Azores Nature parks

TABLE OF CONTENTS WELCOME TO AZORES NATURE PARKS // 4

Code of Conduct and Good Practice of the Nature Park // 6

FLORES NATURE PARK // 8

Environmental Centres // 12 Walking Trails // 14 Points of Interest // 18

CORVO NATURE PARK // 20

Environmental Centres // 24 Walking Trails // 26 Points of Interest // 28

FAIAL NATURE PARK // 30

Environmental Centres // 34 Walking Trails // 40 Circuits // 44 Points of Interest // 46

PICO NATURE PARK // 48

Environmental Centres // 52 Walking Trails // 56 Points of Interest // 64

Azores Nature Parks

ICONS

Ticket office

Toilets

Car Park

Shop

Accessible Toilet

Permanent exhibition

Cafeteria

Auditorium

Wine tasting

Card payment accepted

Film projection

Registration required

SÃO JORGE NATURE PARK // 66 Environmental Centres // 70 Walking Trails // 72 Fajãs of São Jorge // 76 Points of Interest // 78

GRACIOSA NATURE PARK // 80 Environmental Centres // 84 Walking Trails // 86 Points of Interest // 88

TERCEIRA NATURE PARK // 90 Environmental Centres // 94 Circuits // 96 Walking Trails // 98 Points of Interest // 102

SÃO MIGUEL NATURE PARK // 106 Environmental Centres // 110 Walking Trails // 116 Points of Interest // 124

SANTA MARIA NATURE PARK // 128

Guided Tours

Hat

Play area

Sunscreen

Multimedia kiosk

Water

Waterproof clothing

Hiking shoes

Azores Nature Parks

Environmental Centres // 132 Walking Trails // 134 Circuits // 138 Points of Interest // 140

Forget-me-not (Myosotis azorica) //©NRodrigues

The Azores archipelago is the westernmost

the strong influence of the Gulf Stream, haven

part of Europe, located roughly at one third

given it a wide variety of geologic landscapes,

of the way between the west coast of Europe

derived from different types of volcanism and

(1 600km) and the eastern coast of North America

subsequent dynamics of several modeling agents.

(3 900km). The nine islands are divided in three

Thus, 121 geosites were identified in the archipelago

groups: western (Flores and Corvo), central

and are included in the Azores Geopark.

(Faial, Pico, São Jorge, Graciosa and Terceira) and eastern (São Miguel and Santa Maria). Each

The natural vegetation of the Azores is composed of

island presents a distinct physiography and

one of the last and oldest virgin forests of Europe:

dimension, totaling an area of approximately

the laurifolia rainforest, or as it is commonly known,

2 333km2 and a length of about 600km.

laurel forest. The geodiversity and biodiversity of the

This extremely complex geological area has

conditions of the area. In fact, in the archipelago

unique characteristics in terms of geodynamics,

were identified 958 species of vascular flora, of which

which gives the Azorean islands an active nature,

about 75 are endemic, i.e., are found spontaneously

particularly in regards to volcanism and seismicity.

nowhere else in the world. The introduction of

The Azores are the emerged part of a submarine

species that have become invasive over the years and

elevation, formed by the accumulation of volcanic

overexploitation of certain indigenous species, as

deposits laid on the seabed. The morphological

a result of the settlement, have harmed a part of this

origin, remote location, relative young nature and

biodiversity. However, much of this precious natural

Balea heydeni maltzan //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Azores Nature Parks

islands are closely linked to the various ecological

Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Dicranocephalus agilis //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

treasure has survived to this day, reflection of the

development, and although integrating one single

lush beauty from times past.

archipelago, have specific characteristics that make each one unique. Their bio and geodiversity

The faunal richness of the Azores is also to be

are elements of our identity, a heritage that

noted.

requires

Regarding

invertebrates,

arthropods

careful,

ongoing

and

sustainable

(insects, spiders, mites, crustaceans, millipedes

management so that nothing is lost and and this

and centipedes) are the most diverse group and

legacy can be fruitful for future generations.

are abundant in native habitats. In a total of 2 298 species and subspecies, 266 are exclusively

In order to preserve this precious natural world,

found on these islands. Of the 70 species of

regional legislative decrees created the Azores

terrestrial vertebrates, 38 are breeding birds, of

Nature Parks that constitute the Protected Areas

which we highlight the Common Wood Pigeon

Management Unit. This structure integrates all

(Columba palumbus azorica) and the Common

classified areas and allows the management of the

Buzzard (Buteo buteo rothschildi), the latter seen

territory, oriented towards diversity conservation

as a symbol of the archipelago. Mammals present

and sustainable use of natural resources, in order to

low diversity, however, one endemic species

promote tourism and the welfare of our population.

deserves special highlight: the Azorean Bat (Nyctalus azoreum).

Welcome to the Azores Nature Parks.

The nine islands are truly a living specimen

Spergularia azorica//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Archipelago of the Azores

of the past, mixed with human presence and

CODE OF CONDUCT AND GOOD PRACTICE OF THE NATURE PARK The important natural, cultural and visual values of the protected areas and the increasing demand of Holcus rigidus //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

leisure activities in direct contact with nature and local cultures have been transforming these sites into new touristic destinations. When you visit the Nature Park note a set of rules of conduct essential not only for your safety, but also for the preservation and sustainable development of the protected areas, allowing everyone to enjoy this natural heritage.

HELP PRESERVING THE PROTECTED AREAS > Respect the ways of life and local traditions; > Respect private property; close the gates you cross during the trails; > The trails must be conducted in small groups. The excess of visitors can cause soil erosion and destruction of vegetation; > Do not make noises that might disturb the peace of the place; enjoy the sounds of nature; > Observe the wildlife from a distance with binoculars or other appropriate optical equipment, especially during periods of mating and nesting; > Do not start bonfires, opt for flashlights and proper warm clothing; > Do not pick plants or collect geological samples. Allow other visitors to also admire the richness of the different sites. Take photographs: they provide

Landscape of Terceira island //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Azores Nature Parks

the memories of good moments and record the beauty of the landscape; > Do not leave your waste. Take it to a collection service. As an old maxim says: “Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing more than memories and photographs”; > If you witness situations that violate the rules of environmental protection, report it immediately to local authorities.

FOR YOUR SAFETY > Never conduct a trail alone. Communicate to a person you trust the route you intend to follow as well as when you intend to conduct it; > Follow only the marked paths and do not take short cuts. Respect the signs; > Keep a distance from the domestic cattle. Although tame, they do not like the approach of Levada //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

strangers, especially to their offsprings; > Observe the traffic rules. A group going uphill has the priority over the one going downhill; > Keep a steady speed. Do not rush or trail behind. If you feel too tired alert the rest of the group. If you are part of a guided tour, never outrun the guide. Do not endanger your safety or the one of other walkers; > Make sure that you have the proper equipment. We suggest that you take comfortable footwear

IF YOU ARE LOST

and clothing as well as a backpack that allows the

> Keep calm, panic is your worst enemy. Do not run

distribution of weight, containing water, snacks, a

frantically looking for the trail or walk randomly. The

waste bag, sunscreen, the map of the protected

first thing that rescuers do is position themselves

area, a compass, a whistle, a waterproof jacket and

where you were last seen;

the contacts of local authorities.

> Use your cell phone to warn the authorities. If this does not work, yell for help or whistle to signal your location. Repeat the call in different directions or use the whistle; > Never leave the trail. If you have left it and are alone, it is advisable to try and find the way back to the trail; > Use a compass or map to get to a place where you can be found more easily. If you do not have a compass but have an idea of the position and apparent motion of the sun, find the direction East - West. In some places the bark of trees facing North may be more humid (observe various species > If you have to stay overnight and are wounded, exhausted, or if the weather is bad, save your energy and protect yourself from the cold. In this case, a fire may be crucial: in addition to providing heat, it will help the rescuers to locate you.

Azores Nature Parks

Scabiosa nitens //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

in order to detect a pattern);

Flores Nature park

Poço das Patas //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Flores Nature Park, established in 2011, presents notable aspects as the biggest and best conserve wooded peatlands in the North Atlantic and a considerable amount of lagoons. Here it is also possible to find two of the rarest plants of the world, the Veronica dabneyi and the forget-me-not (Myosotis azorica). Flores Island includes several areas classified in Natura 2000

Grey Triggerfish (Balistes capriscus) // ©JGoçalves/Image DOP

Network, one Ramsar Site and six priority geosites. The Park has several classified protected areas that cover a third of the total area of the island and distributed by three Nature Reserves, one Natural Monument, three Habitat/Species Management Protected Areas, one Protected Landscape Area and two Resource Management Protected Areas. There available to its visitors the Boqueirão Environmental Interpretation Centre and four walking trails that go through several protected areas. Flores Island entered the World Network of Biosphere Reserves of UNESCO in May 27, 2009, joining Corvo and

Lagoa da Lomba //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Graciosa Islands.

Fetterbush Butterfly (Pieris brassicae azorensis) //©PBorges

Poço da Alagoínha //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Azores Ivy (Hedera azorica) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

ENVIRONMENTAL CENTRES

SERVICES

BOQUEIRÃO ENVIRONMENTAL INTERPRETATION CENTRE The Boqueirão Environmental Interpretation Centre was created in the tanks used to store the whale’s oil melted in the Boqueirão Whaling Station. It is a space dedicated to the promotion and knowledge of the most significant environmental places of the island, with highlight to the marine environments. Here one can learn about resident and migratory birds, living beings that live in the intertidal zone and water column, cetaceans and hydrothermal vents. It is a privileged place for the promotion of scientific knowledge, enriching the experience of those who visit the Nature Park. This Centre was included in the “Architecture Guide –South and Islands of Portugal”, published in 2011; and in the “Mostra Ibérica de Património Arquitéctonico – La MIPA” project, within the Lisbon Architecture Triennale 2013 “Close, Closer”. It was also referenced and published in several trade websites and magazines.

OPENING TIMES |

PRICES

LOCATION

Rua do Boqueirão, nº 2-A, 9970 - 390 Santa Cruz das Flores GPS: 39°27’46,8”N ; 31°07’46,9”W

CONTACTS

(+351) 292 542 447 // pnflores.boqueirao@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

Leaving from the airport, located in the centre of Santa Cruz village, turn left on Rua da Esperança (street) towards the Campo de Futebol Municipal de Santa Cruz das Flores (football field). Take the Regional Road until you reach a junction where you must turn right to the Rua do Boqueirão (street). Go straight until you find the Boqueirão Whaling Station Museum, enter the main gate, turn left and go down the ramp towards the harbour. Halfway through the ramp, one can find the Centre’s entrance door, on the right.

Any other type of discounts, campaigns or promotions aren’t applied.

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Flores Nature Park

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

WALKING TRAILS FAJÃ DE LOPO VAZ

Azevinho (Ilex azorica) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Fajã Lopo Vaz //PNFlores

Go down from the Fajã de Lopo Vaz Viewpoint and after the first slope, you will arrive to a place where water runs between the Japanese cedars (Cryptomeria japonica). Below, go down the sea cliff along a stone staircase and, just in front, you can see the Ponta da Rocha Alta. On your right side sprout small waterfalls where bloom watercress (Nasturtium officinale). In the distance, you can observe the Fajã de Lopo Vaz (cove) and start the final descent towards the sand area, where you can find a beach. To explore the Fajã, reaching the first house, instead of going to the sand area, you can go on the old track, which divides the Fajã almost in half. Passing through small houses that come up in surprising places, continue along the path until it gets lost in the lands of the west border of the Fajã. The return has to be done in the same road until you get back to the entry of the trail, in the Fajã de Lopo Vaz Viewpoint. A revealing aspect of anthropogenic action on this site is its microclimate, reputed as the hottest of Flores Island. In fact, are produced here the biggest bananas of the island (Musa sp.), as well as figs (Ficus sp.), grapes (Vitis sp.) and “araçás” (Psidium littorale).

Juniper (Juniperus brevifolia) // ©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

[PRC4FLO]

Extension 4km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 2h Max. Alt. 220m | Min. Alt. 2,5m

How to get there Leaving from the Church of Nossa Senhora dos Milagres, in Lajedo, Lajes county, turn right next to the empire (a small hermitage) of Espírito Santo and climb up to the viewpoint where you can find the beginning of the trail sign.

Flores Nature Park

Recommended equipment

Euphorbia stygiana // ©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

GPS Starting and finishing point: Fajã Lopo Vaz Viewpoint (39º22’29,92’’N ; 31º11’44,39’’W)

[PR2FLO]

FAJÃ GRANDE

Begin the trail by a foot path, next to the viewpoint overlooking the Ilhéu do Cartário (islet). Go straight until you find an asphalt road on Mosteiro. Turn left, pass the church square and proceed along the road to find another cement road. Cross a small bridge over the Ribeira do Mosteiro (stream). Proceed forward on a dirt path until you reach the road and continue along this one to the place where the road draws a harsh right curve. At the end of the curve is the path that goes down the center of the Caldeira. Proceed for a climb that will take you back to the paved road. Then head to the first harsh curve in the road, turn left to by the signaling arrow and proceed down the path toward Fajãzinha. Arriving at the parish, proceed by the paved road, pass in front of the church and you will reach the central small square of the village, Rossio. Cross the town following the signs, turn left by a foot path and proceed forward. At the end of the path, already in the Regional Road, find an old water mill and cross the bridge over the Ribeira Grande (stream). On the right find a paved path that will take you to the Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro (pond), one of the most beautiful places of the archipelago. Returning the same way cross over the bridge of Ribeira do Ferreiro. Immediately after, turn right to a paved road. After 700 m, enter a traditional cobblestone path and follow between small terrains of grassland to Fajã Grande. At Rua Senador André de Freitas (street) go through the last meters of the trail to the bathing area of the Fajã Grande. Along the trail are several species of Laurel Forest and various species of birds.

Fajã Grande //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Azorean Blueberry (Vaccinium cylindraceum) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt Common Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs moreletti) //©JMelo

LAJEDO

GPS Starting point: Lajedo - Igreja (39º23’37,575’’N ; 31º15’4,398’’W) Finishing point: Fajã Grande - Porto (39º27’29,00’’N ; 31º15’48,11’’W) How to get there Leaving from the Church of Nossa Senhora dos Milagres, in Lajedo, Lajes county, turn right next to the empire (a small hermitage) of Espírito Santo and climb up to the viewpoint where you can find the beginning of the trail sign. Recommended equipment

Flores Nature Park

Laurustinus (Viburnum treleasei) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Extension 10km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 3h30 Max. Alt. 293m | Min. Alt. 23m

MIRADOURO DAS LAGOAS

POÇO DO BACALHAU [PR3FLO]

Poço //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Follow by a foot path along an extensive peatland mat (Sphagnum spp.). Walk about 1 km and find the Caldeira Seca. Continue a few meters on the road to climb until you find marked the entrance to the foot path on the left. This area may have some zones of stopped water and mud, it is recommended to have some caution. After a few meters you will find the Lagoa Branca (lagoon), excellent place for birdwatching. Continuing on the trail, you will come to a dirt path. Turn right and go straight across the bridge of Ribeira do Ferreiro (stream). Walk over 1 km and turn left onto a new dirt path that goes towards the sea cliffs. Then proceed down the pasture by your right. To your left you see the Fajãzinha and in front Fajã Grande. A little further ahead you will find, on the left, a wooden gate that gives access to an old stone staircase. Transpose the gate and go down the steps towards the pastures of Fajã Grande. Continue the path along the Ribeira das Casas to the Poço do Bacalhau. Along the way there are several species of flora of the Laurel Forest, as well as several species of avifauna.

GPS Starting point: Miradouro das Lagoas Negra e Comprida (39º26’23,67’’N ; 31º13’26,89’’W) Finishing point: Fajã Grande - Poço do Bacalhau (39º27’31,54’’N ; 31º15’22,25’’W)

Flores Nature Park

How to get there Leaving from Santa Cruz, take the Regional Road 1-2 towards the area of Matosa and turn right at the junction. Go through the Regional Road 2-2, on the interior of the island, and follow the detour to the Lagoas Negra e Comprida Viewpoint, clearly marked, between km 8 and 9.

Recommended equipment

Azorean Bellflower (Azorina vidalii) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Extension 7 km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 3h Max. Alt. 637m | Min. Alt. 22m

Start the trail in Ponta Delgada, next to the hermitage of Nossa Senhora da Guia. Follow the asphalt path and at the fork near the Albarnaz Lighthouse, turn left and go up the cement road to find an old path on your right. Proceed through this one until a climb on the left. Continue until you reach the edge of the sea cliff where you can find some wooden stairs and then start the descent on a sloped floor with steps in natural stone. After the accentuated decline, you will find again the path that will take you for a traditional cobblestone path to Ponta da Fajã. The trail is crossed by several streams, and the floor is uneven. Sometimes, becomes slippery in these places, so it is not advisable to effectuate it after periods of heavy rainfall. Arriving at Ponta da Fajã, you find the traditional stone houses and yards with typical “inhames” (taros) (Colocasia esculenta). Continue down the road toward Fajã Grande where you can find a bathing area, picnic park, bars and restaurants. Here you can regain strength enjoying the landscape. Along the way, you will find endemic flora specimens, as well as various species of birds.

Extension 12km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 3h Max. Alt. 382m | Min. Alt. 5m GPS Starting point: Ponta Delgada - Capela Nª Srª Guia (39º31’12,07’’N ; 31º12’46,79’’W) Finishing point: Fajã Grande - merendário (39º27’29,46’’N ; 31º15’48,35’’W) How to get there Head towards Ponta Delgada parish, in Santa Cruz county. Take the road towards Albarnaz Lighthouse. Enter the detour (cement path that goes up a hill just before the lighthouse). Advancing about 1,5 km you will find the beginning of the trail. Recommended equipment

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

[PR1FLO]

Fajã Grande //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

FAJÃ GRANDE

Flores Nature Park

PONTA DELGADA

POÇO DO BACALHAU NATURAL HERITAGE

It is located in the Protected Landscape Area of Zona Central e Falésias da Costa Oeste. It presents as a waterfall located in Ribeira das Casa (stream) that falls from around 90 m of altitude, falling in a natural pond surrounded by endemic and introduced vegetation. The waters of this waterfall are from springs located in the zones of high altitude of the island that catch the humidity of the dense clouds that accumulate above the Laurel Forest and the extensive layer of peat moss (Sphagnum spp.). This layer works as regulator and distributor of the amount of the water received, slowly and steadily. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39º27’31,143’’N ; 31º15’19,578’’W

ALAGOA

VIEWPOINT

From here you can observe the Ilhéus da Alagoa (islets), geological formations important for the nest of several birds as the terns (Sterna spp.). Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39º28’28,819’’N ; 31º08’56,033’’W

LAGOA BRANCA VIEWPOINT

Located in the climb to the highest point of the island (Morro Alto), this viewpoint has a privilege view over the Lagoa Branca. This lagoon is cover by an extensive layer of peat moss (Sphagnum spp.) that works as regulator of the water flow. This is also an important place for birdwatching. Activities: Nature contemplation // Birdwatching GPS: 39º26’54,8’’N ; 31º13’16,484’’W Lagoa Branca //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

POINTS OF INTEREST

LAGOA COMPRIDA VIEWPOINT

You can enjoy a view over the Lagoa Comprida (lagoon) with a depth of around 18 m. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39º26’16,919’’N ; 31º13’21,798’’W

CRAVEIRO LOPES VIEWPOINT

Lagoa Comprida // ©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Located in one of the slopes of the Protected Landscape Area of Zona Central e Falésias da Costa Oeste. From here it is possible to observe several waterfalls that falls down the sea cliffs, from an affluent of Ribeira do Ferreiro (stream) and other springs that supply the Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro (pond). Here you can observe two of the rarest plants of the Azores, the Veronica dabneyi and the forget-me-not (Myosotis azorica). Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39º25’36,234’’N ; 31º14’17,829’’W

ILHÉU MARIA VAZ VIEWPOINT

Flores Nature Park

This islet is a Nature Reserve and is also known as Ilhéu da Gadellha. It is the biggest of the island (9,79 ha), is covered by vegetation and is very frequented by seabirds, which stands out in greater quantity, the yellow legged gull (Larus michahellis atlantis). Activities: Nature contemplation // Birdwatching GPS: 39º30’55,919’’N ; 31º13’54,558’’W

LAGOA NEGRA VIEWPOINT

Offers a view over the Lagoa Negra (lagoon) with a depth of about 115 m. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39º26’24,623’’N ; 31º13’25,527’’W

LAGOA SECA VIEWPOINT

MORRO ALTO VIEWPOINT

From here you can contemplate the Lagoa Seca (lagoon) with a depth of about 16 m and it is fed by a spring from Pico dos Sete Pés. The surrounding vegetation is mainly endemic, typical of the Laurel Forests, with highlight to the juniper (Ilex perado subsp. azorica), the Azorean blueberry (Vaccinium cylindraceum), the laurustinus (Viburnum treleasei) and the Euphorbia stygiana subsp. stygiana. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39º26’43,241’’N ; 31º13’5,19’’W

From here you can observe all the island, from its highest point with 911 m of altitude, being the volcanic set designated as Testa da Igreja. It has an excellent view to Pico da Sé. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39º27’18,899’’N ; 31º13’59,17’’W

LAGOAS FUNDA E RASA

From here you can observe the important trachyte relief known as Pico da Sé, forming an imposing volcanic set that fits between two deep erosion valleys, digged by the Ribeiras da Badanela and Fazenda (streams). Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39º28’28,162’’N ; 31º12’03,67’’W

Lagoa Funda //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

From here you have an excellent view over the Lagoa Funda (lagoon) with a depth of around 26,9 m, has a waterfall and very high margins, where you can find a great variety of endemic flora of the Azores. In this caldera it is also possible to observe several resident birds. Lagoa Rasa (lagoon) has a depth of 17,5 m and very high margins. Here you can observe several endemic flora of the Azores. Activities: Nature contemplation // Birdwatching GPS: 39º24’25,772’’N ; 31º13’25,834’’W

VIEWPOINT

POÇO DA ALAGOÍNHA VIEWPOINT

It is located in the Protected Landscape Area of Zona Central e Falésias da Costa Oeste. It has a privileged view over the lagoon. From this place you can see numerous waterfalls that flow down the hill, from the affluent of Ribeira do Ferreiro (stream) and others springs. The water of the lagoon continues through Ribeira do Ferreiro. This is a place of extreme natural beauty, almost intact where silence prevails. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39º26’11,065’’N ; 31º14’19,713’’W

Poço da Alagoínha //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

VIEWPOINT

PICO DA SÉ

LAGOAS NEGRA E COMPRIDA VIEWPOINT

You can enjoy the silence of a breathtaking view over the Lagoas Negra and Comprida (lagoons). Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39º26’24,609’’N ; 31º13’25,452’’W

ROCHA DOS BORDÕES From here you can observe the Rocha dos Bordões (rock), showing the abrupt slops of rocky prisms which give it unique beauty. The outcrops are of mugearite nature as a result of the solidification of lava in high vertical columns of prismatic disjunction type. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39º24’35,717’’N ; 31º14’41,931’’W

Flores Nature Park

Lagoa Negra //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

VIEWPOINT

Corvo Nature park

Corvo Nature Park

Azorean buckthorn (Frangula azorica) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

22 Waterfalls //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Vila do Corvo //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

European robin (Erithacus rubecula) //©WMedeiros

The creation of Corvo Nature Park, in 2008, aimed the preservation of this precious treasure and stands out for its natural potentials (which integrates Important Bird Areas) and location, conditions that makes Corvo a place much sought after by birdwatchers, where it is possible to see, not only local but also migratory species that, eventually, were never seen in the European continent. Has a high biodiversity and a great variety of habitats, having, for example, 48 species of endemic flora of the Azores. The Park has two protected areas (one Habitat/Species Management Protected Area and one Resource Management Protected Areas) one Ramsar site, areas of the Natura 2000 Network and three priority geosites of the Azores Geopark. Since

Interpretation Centre, the Corvo Wild Birds Rehabilitation Centre, two walking trails, a voluntary reserve and viewpoints in privileged places.

Caldeirão //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

There are available for its visitors the Corvo Wild Birds

Caldeirão //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

2007 is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

ENVIRONMENTAL CENTRES

SERVICES

//©AZORINA, S.A.

OPENING TIMES |

PRICES

LOCATION

Canada do Graciosa s/n, 9980-031 Corvo GPS: 39º40’26,339”N ; 31º6’42,779”W

CONTACTS

(+351) 292 596 051 // pncorvo.centroambiental@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

//©AZORINA, S.A.

From the historic centre of Vila do Corvo, head towards the “Casa do Espírito Santo”, located in Largo do Outeiro (square). Once facing this building, turn left and go up the Rua do Outeiro (street), over 30 metres. At the top is a “canada” (path) on the left (locally known as Canada do Graciosa), from where you can see the Centre’s plaque adjacent to the building.

The Corvo Wild Birds Interpretation Centre is a mandatory stop for those who wish to get to know the Nature Park, as well as the Corvo Island Biosphere Reserve. Here one can discover the wild birds that occur in the Archipelago, and know a bit more about the practice of birdwatching, the tourism activity that places Corvo Island as a location of high importance in the context of international birdwatching. In this exhibition, the visitors have access to several multimedia equipment with information about the Nature Park and the Azorean birdlife, namely a sightings’ registration screen, a hologram and an illustrated book of wintering, migratory, nesting and accidental birds observable on the island. The visitors also have the possibility to “travel” along the island through a virtual reality experience, for a better understanding of the interaction between Man and the environment. Moreover, the Centre includes Corvo’s last mill where was carried out the island’s main flourishing process until the beginning of the ‘60s.

//©AZORINA, S.A.

Corvo Nature Park

CORVO WILD BIRDS INTERPRETATION CENTRE

HOW TO GET THERE

Follow the road to the Caldeirão and at the first intersection on the right, enter the Largo do Maranhão. There you can find a staircase to the left, which leads to the Centre.

The Wild Birds Rehabilitation Centre aims the recovery of wild birds injured or debilitated, and the environmental awareness of the population about the key role of biodiversity. Installed in a building recovered by the Regional Government of the Azores in 2010 through restoration and rehabilitation works, this Centre is situated next to the Corvo Wild Birds Interpretation Centre, where one shall go for more information and visit appointments. With the creation of this Centre, the Azores have now an innovative structure in the Archipelago, with the necessary conditions for treatment of birds, as well as an outdoor space for the transition between captivity and freedom. By appointment, visitors can make a guided tour of the Centre’s facilities and may possibly observe the species in recovery at that time.

Cory’s Shearwater (Calonectris borealis) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

CONTACTS

(+351) 292 596 051 // parque.natural.corvo@azores.gov.pt

CORVO WILD BIRDS REHABILITATION CENTRE

Corvo Nature Park

Cory’s Shearwater (Calonectris borealis) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

LOCATION

Largo do Maranhão GPS: 39º40’26.339’’’N ; 31º06’42.779’’W

SUPPORT HOUSE

WALKING TRAILS CALDEIRÃO

[PR2COR]

Lagoas do Caldeirão //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Start by going down the Caldeira through a well-defined shortcut. When you reach a large stone turn right, towards the lagoon, carefully following the signs. Go around the lagoon in the opposite direction of clockwise. The basis of Caldeirão is dominated by a system of wetlands and two lagoons fed by rainwater, the water accumulated in thick tufts of peatmoss (peatland) existing on slopes facing north. It is noteworthy that the largest and oldest in the country peatlands exist only on the islands of Corvo and Flores. Looking into the volcano crater you can sight the unique beauty of the lagoons, with small islands, which tradition associates with a representation of the Azores archipelago. The existence of some streams forces you to get away sometimes from the shore of the lagoon so it is important to be aware of the marks, especially on foggy days. You can watch and/or listen to the snipes (Gallinago gallinago), species with higher concentration inside the Caldeirão. Other birds that nest on this site are the mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) and the common tern (Sterna hirundo). Near the end of the trail you will find on your right a swampy area. Continue on until you find the large stone where you went at the end of the descent to the Caldeira. Here, turn right and go to the starting point by the same way you went down.

Extension 5km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 2h30 Max. Alt. 558m | Min. Alt. 401m GPS Starting and finishing point: Caldeirão Viewpoint (39°42’29,909N ; 31°5’54,52’’W) How to get there Follow the Regional Road towards the Caldeirão (about 8 km), until you find the viewpoint.

Corvo Nature Park

Recommended equipment

CARA DO ÍNDIO

[PR1COR]

Cara do Índio //©RenéeRita

Start the trail by the Cova Vermelha, following old “canadas” (paths) lined by stone walls towards the coast. At the sea cliff, turn right for a detour where you can see the face of an Indian sculpted in rock. Then, go back the same way, always continuing along the sea cliff. Following the signs, you will find a little ahead, an ancient path where you must go, always down to the village. Along the way you’ll find old shelters, interesting geological formations, large lichens and also beautiful junipers (Juniperus brevifolia) proliferating in various locations. After arriving at the village, continue to walk through the town center, passing through the harbor, follow towards the old mills, recently restored, going down to find a path running through farmlands, which leads along the coast to reach the bathing area, locally known as Praia da Areia. Besides being able to enjoy the highest concentration of Azorina vidalii, the area at low altitude is a prime location for observing the local avifauna and you can find some less common species coming from the American continent. The trail ends at the beach of the village.

Extension 4,5km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 2h30 Max. Alt. 387m | Min. Alt. 13m

How to get there Follow the road for the Caldeirão to the Zimbral. At the first intersection, turn left to Pias da Canada, toward the old butter factory. Then follow towards Lagos and from here up to the Cova Vermelha, where is the entrance to the trail. Recommended equipment

Corvo Nature Park

Lagoas do Caldeirão //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

GPS Starting point: Cova Vermelha (39°41’6,26’’N ; 31°6’39,26’’W) Finishing point: Praia (39°40’19,64’’N ; 31°07’18,42’’W)

POINTS OF INTEREST CALDEIRÃO VIEWPOINT

VIEWPOINT

Here you can observe the width of the water channel that separates Corvo and Flores Islands and also admire the silhouette of Flores. You can find a set of three windmills that remain in operation despite they are no longer used for the purpose for which they were built. Corvo windmills are different from the other islands, being more similar to the ones that were left by the Arabs in the Portuguese mainland. These constructions date back to the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. They are classified as public interest. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39°40’13,02’’N ; 31°6’50,33’’W (Caminho dos Moinhos)

CANADA DA ROCHA VIEWPOINT

Corvo Nature Park

Located in the hillside overlooking Porto da Casa, this viewpoint has in its front the Cais Comercial (commercial pier) and at its right the lookout zone. Place of contemplation and election site for the older as they spent here long periods of the day in mild chats. Here you can observe all bay of Porto da Casa, where the boats arrive and leave. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39°40’19,60’’N ; 31°6’40,26’’W (Rua das Pedras)

Windmill //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Caldeirão //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Enjoy a unique place, where the weight of the silence and the dimension of the landscape are breathtaking. Overlooking the caldera, offers a magnificent view over the whole area and the Caldeirão itself, the ex-libris of Corvo. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39°42’29,84’’N ; 31°5’54,65’’W (Monte Gordo)

MOINHOS

PORTÃO VIEWPOINT

It is possible to observe the village. In front you can see the old part that leans over the pier of Porto da Casa and at the right the typical Corvo windmills. All this area extends through the Fajã Lávica da Vila do Corvo (lava cove of the village), one of the priority geosites of the island. This place has a viewpoint plaque, with several photos that help the visitors to easily identify sites of interest. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39°40’29,98’’N ; 31°6’31,77’’W (Lugar do Portão)

NATURAL HERITAGE In 2009, under the project “Sanctuary Islands for Seabirds”, was created the Corvo Biological Reserve, located in Topo area. Its creation was an important step in the process of fauna conservation in the island. This area also serves to test different theories on seabirds, including their susceptibility to predators such as cats and rats. This sanctuary is crucial, not only for the Cory’s shearwater (Calonectris borealis), but also for the Madeiran storm-petrel (Hydrobates castro), the Manx shearwater (Puffinus puffinus) and the Barolo shearwater (Puffinus lherminieri baroli), birds of great importance in the history of Flores and Corvo. Beyond its important scientific role, the Reserve proposes visitors an interpretive circuit that passes through the places of highest scenic value. Activities: Birdwatching GPS: 39º40’23,9’’N ; 31º7’12,3’’W

Monteiro’s Storm-Petrel (Oceanodroma castro) //©PHSilva // siaram.

Little Shearwater (Puffinus baroli) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt Monteiro’s Storm-Petrel (Hydrobates castro) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

CORVO BIOLOGICAL RESERVE

faial Nature Park

Faial Nature Park

Manta ray (Manta birostris) //©FCardigos

32 Azorean Speedwell (Veronica dabneyi) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Capelo Peninsula //©JoséGarcia

Plutonia brumalis //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

The Faial Nature Park, established in 2008, is full of breathtaking landscapes, unique birds and plants and emblematic geological formations. It’s Park’s mission to preserve this natural heritage and the conservation of the cultural heritage of a long history of coexistence between man and nature. Considered by the European Commission a European Destination of Excellence (EDEN), is the only place in Portugal with this award. The diversity of the Nature Park, admiring and fascination target of its visitors, includes three Nature Reserves, two Protected Landscape Areas, four Habitat/Species Management Protected Areas and four Resource Management Protected Areas. It covers several areas classified in Natura 2000 Network

environmental centres: the Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre, the Faial Botanic Garden, the Porto Pim Aquarium Live Fish Station, the Dabney´s House and a support house, the Roadman´s House, plus nine walking trails, two interpretive circuits and a mountain bike circuit.

Charcos de Pedro Miguel //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

In order to provide a quality visit, the Nature Park has five

Vulcão dos Capelinhos //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

a Ramsar Site and six priority geosites of Azores Geopark.

ENVIRONMENTAL CENTRES CAPELINHOS VOLCANO INTERPRETATION CENTRE

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Faial Nature Park

The Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre has an informative, educational and scientific mission, and the building was constructed underground, so it would not interfere with the pre-existing landscape. It has a set of exhibitions about Capelinhos Volcano eruption, the formation of the archipelago and the history of the Azorean lighthouses. It also has an auditorium and a temporary exhibition of rock and mineral samples. It is possible to go up the Lighthouse and enjoy this recent volcanic landscape originated from the eruption of 1957/58. The Centre was appointed by the European Museum Forum, for best European museum in 2012.

OPENING TIMES |

PRICES

LOCATION

Farol dos Capelinhos - Capelo, 9900 Horta GPS: 38º35’48,009’’N ; 28º49’31,167’’W

CONTACTS

(+351) 292 200 470 // pnfaial.vulcaodoscapelinhos@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

Located in Capelo parish, about 25 kilometres Horta city’s centre (about 30 minutes by car). Leaving from Horta city towards west, follow the Regional Road and pass by the parishes of Feteira and Castelo Branco. Arriving at Capelo parish, keep going on the Regional Road. After passing the entrance to Parque do Capelo (Capelo Forest Park) on the right, you will find an intersection where you should turn left, following the road signs indicating “Vulcão dos Capelinhos”. After about 4 kilometres, you will find on your left, the access road to the volcano, where the Centre is located.

Faial Nature Park

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

View from Capelinhos Lighthouse //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

// siaram.azores.gov.pt

SERVICES

FAIAL BOTANIC GARDEN SERVICES

OPENING TIMES |

PRICES

LOCATION

Rua de São Lourenço, nº 23 – Flamengos, 9900-401 Horta GPS: 38º33’3,242’’N ; 28º38’21,121’’W

CONTACTS

(+351) 292 207 360 // pnfaial.jardimbotanico@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

This garden is located in Flamengos parish, next to Quinta de São Lourenço, 2,5 kilometres from Horta city’s centre. Leaving from the Largo Duque D’Ávila e Bolama, in the centre of Horta city, in front of City Hall, take the exit north, turn left and then right. Pass the Clock Tower and continue on the traditional cobblestone path. After passing the steep road, about 1,5 kilometres ahead, next to Quinta de São Lourenço, you’ll find a plaque in the right that indicates the entrance to the Botanic Garden on your left.

Orchids //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Greenhouse //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Faial Nature Park

Faial Botanical Garden is open to the public since 1986. With a central nucleus in the parish of Flamengos, that includes the Azores Seed Bank, and an altitude nucleus in Pedro Miguel, its mission is related to the conservation and study of the Azores natural flora, the promotion of scientific knowledge and environmental awareness. When visiting this Garden, the visitors can get to know the rarest plants in the Azores, the traditional crops, a beautiful orchidarium, a collection of medicinal and aromatic plants, as well as the main invasive plants. The permanent exhibition, dedicated to the Natural History of the Azores Vegetation, emphasizes the Archipelago as a gathering point of unique plant species of different origins and biological ages and explains the emergence of species and communities that only occur here, and the need to preserve this unique and fragile treasure as a legacy for the future. The extension of the Botanic Garden opened in June of 2019 and includes the Azores Orchidarium, where it is possible to explore a magnificent orchid collection and its interpretative exhibition, with several facts and curiosities about this extraordinary plant family. The Azores Orchidarium’s collection contains a large diversity of orchid species and hybrids, organized according to their environmental preferences. Therefore, several areas with different conditions were created: two warm greenhouses, for the cultivation of tropical orchids, and two shaded areas, with an outside space, for the cultivation of orchids from temperate zones. This space was created by the Faial Botanic Garden in partnership with the company Agrozende, to gather the best possible conditions for the development of these plants. Every day, the staff takes care of each plant individually, in order to guarantee its growth. Turismo de Portugal distinguished the Botanic Garden, in 2011, with an honourable mention in the award “Revitalization of Public Project”. In August 2015, the “Botanic Garden Conservation International” (BGCI) selected the Azores Seed Bank as a study case on the conservation of rare seeds under the “Global Seed Conservation Challenge”.

LIVE FISH STATION - PORTO PIM AQUARIUM

OPENING TIMES |

PRICES

LOCATION

Monte da Guia - Angústias, 9900 Horta GPS: 38º31’21,753’’N ; 28º37’42,131’’W

CONTACTS

(+351) 964 971 484 // pnfaial.aquarioportopim@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

Located in Angústias parish. From the Garden of Praça do Infante (south end of the city’s Main Avenue), in front of Marina of Horta, go south through the traditional cobblestone path towards the Praia de Porto Pim (beach). After passing the Hotel Canal on your right, turn left at the next intersection and walk about 600 metres until you reach the car park. Then, turn right towards the beach and follow the parallel stone path. You will find the Dabney’s House on your left. The Aquarium is located a few metres ahead.

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Thornback Ray (Raja clavata) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

The Porto Pim Aquarium - Live Fish Station is housed in a building full of history about the cod dry and the first whale oil extraction station. It includes a central tank and two other sets of tanks, with the most common coastal species of the Azores, an exhibition about the Azores Marine Park and a film about the deep sea of the continental platform contiguous to the Archipelago. Promoting knowledge about the Azores sea biodiversity, along with environmental awareness and recovery of sensitive marine animals, are the main tasks carried out by Faial Nature Park on this unit. The Porto Pim Aquarium - Live Fish Station is housed in a building full of history about the cod dry and the first whale oil extraction station. It includes a central tank and two other sets of tanks, with the most common coastal species of the Azores, an exhibition about the Azores Marine Park and a film about the deep sea of the continental platform contiguous to the Archipelago. Promoting knowledge about the Azores sea biodiversity, along with environmental awareness and recovery of sensitive marine animals, are the main tasks carried out by Faial Nature Park on this unit.

SERVICES

DABNEY’S HOUSE

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

The Dabney’s House, recovered by the Regional Government of Azores, portrays the story and passage of the Dabney family on Faial, who left a cultural, historical and scientific heritage, still visible and recognized on the island. The Dabney family settled in Faial on 1806, when John Bass Dabney was appointed US Consul General in the Azores. Three members of the Dabney family (John, Charles and Samuel) successively engaged this position over a century. In 1854, Charles William Dabney bought a summer house built in Monte da Guia, included in a residential complex consisting of a house with a cistern, a pier and a shelter for two boats, a viewpoint, a small area of vineyards stretching up the slope towards the bay of Porto Pim and a winery, where, currently, is the exhibition about their experiences on the island. Explore these and other emblematic sites of this family through the Dabney’s Circuit.

SERVICES

OPENING TIMES |

PRICES

LOCATION

Monte da Guia - Angústias, 9900 Horta GPS: 38°31’23,158”N ; 28°37’35,826”W

CONTACTS

Tlf: (+351) 292 240 685 - Email: pnfaial.casadosdabney@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Faial Nature Park

Located in the parish of Angústias. From the Garden of Praça do Infante (south end of the city’s Main Avenue), in front of Marina of Horta, go south, through the traditional cobblestone path towards the Praia de Porto Pim (beach). After passing the Hotel Canal on your right, turn left at the next intersection and walk about 600 m until you reach the parking lot. Then, turn right towards the beach and follow the path next to it. You will find the Dabney’s House on your left.

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

SUPPORT HOUSE

ROADMAN’S HOUSE The Roadman’s House, restored by the Regional Government of the Azores, once had the purpose to store maintenance and cleaning equipment, to preserve roads and curbs, but also to provide shelter for workers during unexpected storms. It is currently available to the public as a support house, for the interpretation of the Caldeira do Faial, with an exhibition about its flora, fauna and geological characteristics and a Nature Park model, with several trails and viewpoints. Before visiting this space, it is advisable that visitors contact the Faial Nature Park.

SERVICES

LOCATION

Estrada da Caldeira s/n, 9900 Horta GPS: 38º34’16,791’’N ; 28º41’32,31’’W

CONTACTS

(+351) 292 207 382 // parque.natural.faial@azores.gov.pt

PRICES

Interior da Caldeira //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Free entry

Children up to 12 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

HOW TO GET THERE

Leaving from the Largo Duque D’Ávila e Bolama (square), in the centre of Horta city, in front of the City Hall, head north to the Flamengos parish and follow the signs with the “Caldeira” indication. About 3 kilometres from Caldeira, you will find the House by your right, on a curve.

LEVADA [PR3FAI]

[PRC5FAI]

This is a circular trail, starting and ending in Lombega, Castelo Branco parish. The main objective of this trail is the contemplation of the Morro de Castelo Branco, a trachytic dome classified as Nature Reserve. In this section, in addition to the important geological component, you can enjoy the tranquility to observe some seabirds of the Azores such as Cory’s shearwater (Calonectris borealis), common tern (Sterna hirundo), roseate tern (Sterna dougallii), a priority species protected by habitats directive, yellow-legged-gull (Larus michahellis atlantis) and Barolo shearwater (Puffinus lherminieri baroli). Regarding the flora, along the trail are rare and endangered species, such as forget-me-not (Myosotis maritima) and tree heath (Erica azorica).

Faial Nature Park

Walking trail of Levada //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

“The greatest engineering work of Azores,” so qualified at the time of its inauguration in 1964, took four years to build and seven being planned. The Levada, ditch with 10 km (currently only 8 km are walkable) installed at 680m altitude, had as its main function the hydroelectric power production gathering at various water points from the zones of Castelhano, Cabeço, Risco, Fajãs, Cabras, Guarda-Sol and Águas Claras, later channeled from the main reservoir, with 1000 m3 storage capacity, to the mini hydric central of Varadouro. Along the trail you will have opportunity to see excellent examples of Laurel Forest flora, such as Azorean laurel (Laurus azorica), buckthorn (Frangula azorica), holly (Ilex perado subsp. Azorica) and Azorean blueberry (Vaccinium cylindraceum). Regarding the possible faunal species observed are essentially birds of the Azores, namely Eurasian woodcock (Scolopax rusticola), Azores blackbird (Turdus merula azorensis), goldcrest (Regulus regulus inermis) and common chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs moreletti). The trail ends near a volcanic cone, the Cabeço dos Trinta, which you can visit through a tunnel that gives access to the interior.

RUMO AO MORRO DE CASTELO BRANCO

Morro de Castelo Branco //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

WALKING TRAILS

Extension 8km Level of difficulty Easy Duration 2h30 Max. Alt. 752m | Min. Alt. 668m

Extension 3,2km Level of difficulty Easy Duration 1h30m Max. Alt. 198m | Min. Alt. 49m

GPS Starting point: Cedros - Alto do Chão (38º36’6,02”N ; 28º42’33,84”W) Finishing point: Capelo - Cabeço do Trinta (38°34’53,19”N ; 28°44’44,42”W)

GPS Starting and finishing point: Castelo Branco - Lombega (38°32’12,99”N ; 28°44’33,30”W)

How to get there Leaving from Horta city, take the Regional Road towards Cedros parish. Take the Rua da Igreja (street) and follow to the junction of the asphalt road. Turn to your right and follow the road until you find the indication for the trail.

How to get there Leaving from Horta city towards west, take the Regional Road to Castelo Branco parish. When you reach the place of Lombega, pay attention to your left to find the trail’s indication.

Recommended equipment

[PRC1FAI]

CAPELINHOS

Start the trail by the road that rises to the Cabeço Verde, one of the volcanic cones of Península do Capelo, on the west zone of Faial. Start by going around this Cabeço overlooking the Fajã da Praia do Norte, Cabeço do Fogo, Morro de Castelo Branco and other volcanic cones present in Península do Capelo, aligned in an east - west orientation. Then, go down on the path by your right for 750 m. Along with informative signs, turn right to Furna Ruim (cove), a volcanic “algar” (pit) with a depth of 55 m. Proceed on the shortcut through some examples of Laurel Forest, such as Azorean laurel (Laurus azorica), holly (Ilex perado subsp. azorica), Azorean blueberry (Vaccinium cylindraceum) and tree heath (Erica azorica), going around the Algar do Caldeirão until you reach a path of little stones. Cross the path and go up the staircase toward the Cabeço do Canto, where you can sight the Capelinhos Volcano landscape. Go around this Cabeço and return by the same path, following the markings, until you reach the Cabeço Verde again.

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Start the trail near the Porto Pim beach parking lot. Pass the Observatório do Mar dos Açores (Azores Sea Observatory) on your right and climb to the Lira Viewpoint. From this point you can see the bay with the fortress of São Sebastião on the opposite margin. Along the trail there are some maritime protection fortifications of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, and was, therefore, named as Porto Pim, equivalent to Safety Port (word of Flemish origin). Proceed up the road where you should follow to the right, passing through the chapel of Nossa Senhora da Guia. Continue south, with Caldeirinhas on your left (submarine volcano craters of Monte da Guia), until the path turns north, overlooking the beach. Pass the Porto Pim Aquarium, an exhibition place of the most common species of the Azores sea, and then by the Dabney’s House. The Dabney family lived here between 1806 and 1894, leaving a vast built heritage, recovered by the Faial Nature Park. Then follow to the left, crossing the beach and, at its end, turn right to the Rua da Rosa (street). Almost at the top of the street you will find trail signs on the right that will take you to the summit of Monte Queimado, a terrestrial genesis volcano. Before the summit take the opportunity to rest and enjoy the view over the marina of Horta. The trail continues to the parking lot, where it started. If you make the trail during spring and summer seasons, you may observe some species of Azores seabirds as the Cory’s shearwater (Calonectris borealis) and the common tern (Sterna hirundo), because, during these seasons, these birds migrate to the archipelago to nest. Along the trail, the landscape is dominated by the tree heath (Erica azorica), the Azorean fire tree (Morella faya), the fescue (Festuca petraea) and the spiny rush (Juncus acutus).

CAPELO

View of the volcanic complex of Capelo //©JoséGarcia

[PRC8FAI]

Extension 3,4km Level of difficulty Easy Duration 1h30 Max. Alt. 85m | Min. Alt. 1m GPS Starting and finishing point: Beach Parking Lot (38°31’23,785”N ; 28°37’28,489”W) How to get there From the Garden of Praça do Infante (south end of the city’s Main Avenue), in front of Marina of Horta, go south through the traditional cobblestone path towards the Porto Pim Beach. After passing the Hotel Canal on your right, turn left at the next intersection and walk about 600 m until you reach the parking lot at the left of the whale factory. Recommended equipment

Extension 3,1km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 2h30 Max. Alt. 488m | Min. Alt. 253m GPS Starting and finishing point: Capelo - Cabeço Verde (38°35’32,89’’N ; 28°47’47,96’’W) How to get there Leaving from Horta city, take the Regional Road towards the Capelinhos Volcano. After passing the Capelo Forest Park, turn to the Trupes do Capelo and follow by a secondary way until you find directions to the trail. Recommended equipment Faial Nature Park

ENTRE MONTES

// ©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

PERÍMETRO DA CALDEIRA [PRC4FAI]

Start and finish the trail next to the Caldeira Viewpoint, one of the nicest of Faial, traveling the perimeter of the Caldeira. Located in the central part of the island, the Caldeira has a diameter of about 2 km and an average depth of 400 m, lying covered with lush vegetation of Laurel Forest. This is a caldera that resulted from successive reduction stages of a volcano of 410 thousand years old and whose last eruption occurred only 1000 years ago. On the bottom there is a cone resulting from the latter eruptive phase that is very similar to the shape of the Faial Island.

Extension 4,6km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 2h30m Max. Alt. 290m | Min. Alt. 10m GPS Starting and finishing point: Praia do Norte - Rua da Arramada (38°36’21,52”N ; 28°45’4,66”W) How to get there Leaving from Horta city towards west, follow the Regional Road towards Praia do Norte parish. After passing the church, go further 1km until you find the indication of the trail by your left.

Walking trail of Perimeter of the Caldeira //©JMelo

Recommended equipment

Extension 7km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 3h30 Max. Alt. 1024m | Min. Alt. 881m GPS Starting and finishing point: Miradouro da Caldeira (38°34’49,78”N ; 28°42’23,14”W) How to get there Leaving from Largo Duque D’Ávila e Bolama, in the center of Horta city, in front of City Hall, head north towards Flamengos parish and follow the signs with “Caldeira” indication. Recommended equipment

ROCHA DA FAJÃ

Faial Nature Park

[PRC2FAI]

The trail goes down to Praia do Norte fajã (cove), a fajã with mixed genesis, formed partly through the accumulation of debris from the high surrounding sea cliffs and imposing to the sea through magnificent lava flows from several eruptions that formatted the Península do Capelo. One of the flows, associated to the historical eruption of Cabeço do Fogo, contains true natural treasures, enclaves of rocks plucked from inside the earth, called olivine xenoliths.

CAMINHOS VELHOS [PR7FAI]

Start the trail in the Porto da Boca da Ribeira (port), in Ribeirinha, along old rural paths that once had great importance in the communication to the most isolated places and allowed the passage of oxcarts transporting various materials contributing to the improvement of the conditions of these people. The trail, more than its landscape importance, unfolds in a historical story that expresses the difficulty and harshness of rural life in those times. Along the way we find the ruin of the old lighthouse of Ponta da Ribeirinha, destroyed by the intense seismic crisis of 1998, whose epicenter occurred at sea about 5 km from this site. The lighthouse, built in 1919 near an active fissure, the Lomba Grande, was already destined to fail. On the way to the Caldeira, much of the trail is developed on top of the escarpment fissure of Lomba Grande, an important tectonic accident that favored the formation of the Pedro Miguel Graben. Perfectly installed in this rift valley are the Charcos de Pedro Miguel (ponds), place of observation of migratory birds. Near the end of the trail, is one of the most spectacular volcanic devices that exist in the region, the Faial Caldeira about 410 thousand years old, which resulted in several reduction sequences of the ancient cone.

Extension 16,4km Level of difficulty Difficult Duration 5h Max. Alt. 900m | Min. Alt. 3m GPS Starting point: Ribeirinha - Boca da Ribeira - Ribeirinha (38°35’30,29”N ; 28°35’59,75”W) Finishing point: Miradouro da Caldeira (38º34’49,44”N ; 28°42’23,14”W) How to get there Leaving from Horta city, take the Regional Road towards east to Ribeirinha parish. Go down towards the parish center and turn right to the port until you reach a leisure area by the sea. Recommended equipment

Volcanic complex of Capelo //©NRodrigues

DESCIDA À CALDEIRA

(ACCOMPANIED GUIDE)

On the descent to Caldeira you can observe all the copious exuberance of wet Laurel Forest. This is one of the most precious strongholds of the natural flora of the archipelago, located on the caldera of a volcano with an area of about 330 ha. Given the need to preserve the natural values present in the Caldeira do Faial, with emphasis on the geological, biological and landscape uniqueness of this place, it was created the Caldeira Access Regulation. Under this regulation, the maximum capacity of this trail is 12 visitors, always accompanied by a guide certified by the Faial Nature Park, and with a limit of three descents per day.

Extension 21km Level of difficulty Difficult Duration 6h Max. Alt. 934m | Min. Alt. 2m GPS Starting point: Caldeira Viewpoint (38°34’49,52”N ; 28°42’22,93”W) Finishing point: Capelo - Porto Comprido (38°35’33,66”N ; 28°49’37,20”W)

Extension 3km Level of difficulty Difficult Duration 3h30 Max. Alt. 908m | Min. Alt. 574m GPS Starting and finishing point: Miradouro da Caldeira (38°34’49,44”N ; 28°42’23,14”W) How to get there Leaving from Largo Duque D’Ávila e Bolama, in the center of Horta city, in front of City Hall, head north towards Flamengos parish and follow the signs with “Caldeira” indication. Recommended equipment

DEZ VULCÕES [PR6FAI]

This trail combines three segments of existing trails in Faial: Caldeira, Levada and Capelo-Capelinhos. The trail starts at the Caldeira and runs through, as its name suggests, 10 of the main existing volcanoes in the fissured alignment of Península do Capelo. Biodiversity and geodiversity are a constant in this trail, highlighting the landscapes of Península do Capelo and the old Capelinhos Lighthouse, an authentic lunar setting where you can step on land formed by ash, tuff and volcanic bombs where the Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre is now. This trail has an unevenness of about 1000 m, enabling us to discover much of the Azores endemic flora from altitude examples, through the medium altitude and also features species of ravines and sheltered places. Ends in one of the largest and most important whaling stations in the Azores between 1940 and 1957, the Porto do Comprido.

Recommended equipment

FAIAL COSTA A COSTA [GR1FAI]

This trail takes us to the age of the formation of the island, passing by volcanic cones, craters, caves and grottos, mysterious and characteristic locations of the beautiful Azorean volcanic landscapes. Begins at Porto da Boca da Ribeira (port), at level 0, Ribeirinha parish, at the east and oldest end of the island. This route begins exactly from the place where it was formed the primitive island through the ancient volcano of Ribeirinha of about 800 thousand years old and that originated the volcanic complex of the same name. Rises to 1000 m altitude, by old paths, through the Faial Caldeira, crater of a dormant volcano with 2 km in diameter and depth of 400 m, raised about 410 thousand years ago and whose successive eruptive phases built the central area of Faial, called Vulcão da Caldeira. Goes through lush landscapes, typical of these islands, to the lunar desert landscape of the Capelinhos Volcano, resulting from the eruption of 1957/58 responsible for the emission of 175 000 000 m3 of ash, the last volcano of this cone alignment, and of the most recent Europe volcanic peninsula. Ends again at level 0 in one of the largest and most important whaling stations in the Azores between 1940 and 1957, the Porto Comprido, deactivated following the Capelinhos Volcano eruption.

Extension 35km Level of difficulty Difficult Duration 12h Max. Alt. 1000m | Min. Alt. 0m GPS Starting point: Ribeirinha - Boca da Ribeira (38°35’30,43”N ; 28°36’0,19”W) Finishing point: Capelo - Porto Comprido (38°35’33,28”N ; 28°49’37,20”W) How to get there Leaving from Horta city, take the Regional Road towards east to Ribeirinha parish. Go down towards the parish center and turn right to the port until you reach a leisure area by the sea. Recommended equipment

Faial Nature Park

Interior of the Caldeira //©NRodrigues

How to get there Leaving from Largo Duque D’Ávila e Bolama, in the center of Horta city, in front of City Hall, head north towards Flamengos parish and follow the signs with “Caldeira” indication.

INTERPRETIVE CIRCUIT CAMINHO DE BALEEIROS

Faial Nature Park

Start the circuit in Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre. This circuit reflects the importance of the old Porto Cumprido (port), one of the largest and most productive whaling stations in the Azores until 1957, when the Capelinhos Volcano began its activity. In this circuit it is possible to go through old whale lookouts and discover the experience of Capelo’s people before the eruption of the Capelinhos.

GPS Starting and finishing point: 38°35’48,205”N ; 28°49’35,915”W How to get there Leaving from Horta city towards west, follow the Regional Road and pass the parishes of Feteira and Castelo Branco. Arriving at Capelo parish, continue on the Regional Road. After passing the entrance to Parque do Capelo (Capelo Forest Park) on the right, you will find an intersection where you should turn left, and then follow the road signs indicating “Vulcão dos Capelinhos”. After about 4 km, you will come across the access to the Volcano on your left, and then the Centre’s parking lot on the right. Recommended equipment

Costado da Nau //©JMelo

CIRCUITS

Extension 4km Level of difficulty Easy Duration 2h Max. Alt. 179m | Min. Alt. 2m

MTB CIRCUIT PARQUE FLORESTAL DO CAPELO

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

The circuit results from the recovery of a pedestrian old trail as well as part of a dirt path that was once used by farmers on the island. The MTB trail develops fully in Parque Florestal do Capelo (Capelo Forest Park), where can be observed several natural species of the Azores, particularly associated with habitat “coastal Laurel Forest”, such as Azorean fire tree (Morella faya), Azorean laurel (Laurus azorica), tree heath (Erica azorica), cape myrtle (Myrsine africana) and Picconia azorica.

INTERPRETIVE CIRCUIT ROTEIRO DOS DABNEY

Extension 6km Level of difficulty Easy Duration 4h Max. Alt. 250m | Min. Alt. 6m GPS Starting point: 38°31’23,157”N ; 28°37’35,825”W Finishing point: 38°32’25,46”N ; 28°38’38,074”W How to get there From the Garden of Praça do Infante (south end of the city’s Main Avenue), in front of Marina of Horta, go down to the south, through the traditional cobblestone path towards the Porto Pim Beach. After passing the Hotel Canal on your right, turn left at the next intersection and walk about 600 m until you reach the parking lot. Then, turn right towards the beach and follow the path next to it. You will find the Dabney’s House on your left.

//©LOliveira

The Circuit follows along one of the most important historic periods of Faial Island in the 19th century. The Dabney Family lived in this island for three generations during 86 years and was responsible for a unique period of prosperity and political influence. This Circuit brings those memories to the present, passing through the family residences and the places used for business or simply for leisure.

Extension 2km Level of difficulty Easy Duration 1h Max. Alt. 276m | Min. Alt. 223m GPS Starting and finishing point: 38°34’57,727”N ; 28°46’56,669”W How to get there Leaving from Horta city towards west, follow the Regional Road passing by the parishes of Feteira and Castelo Branco. After arriving at Capelo parish, continue on the Regional Road. After passing the Varadouro entrance on your left, about 500 m ahead is the sign to the Parque Florestal do Capelo (Capelo Forest Park), on your right.

Faial Nature Park

Recommended equipment Recommended equipment

POINTS OF INTEREST CHARCOS DE PEDRO MIGUEL NATURAL HERITAGE

VIEWPOINT

The Caldeira viewpoint is one of the most beautiful of the island of Faial. Located in the central part of Faial, Caldeira is the ex-libris of the island. It has a diameter of about 2 km and an average depth of 400 m, covered with opulent vegetation of Laurel Forest. This is a caldera that resulted from successive reduction phases of a volcano of 410 thousand years old and whose last eruption occurred only 1000 years ago, covering about 75% of the island’s surface with incandescent pumice. At the bottom there is a cone resulting from this latter eruptive phase, which is very similar to the shape of the island of Faial. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38°34’49,78”N ; 28°42’26,788”W

Caldeira do Faial //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Located in the south bottom of Lomba Grande, in Pedro Miguel parish. The relevance of these ponds is related to local biodiversity, both in terms of fauna and flora, typical of wetlands, and is an excellent place for bird watching, which stop at this site during their migration. Activities: Nature contemplation // Birdwatching GPS: 38°35’23,597”N ; 28°38’39,647”W

CALDEIRA DO FAIAL

JARDIM BOTÂNICO DE PEDRO MIGUEL NATURAL HERITAGE

In this area there is running a process to the recovery of habitats and species characteristic of wet and super-wet Laurel forest, working as a micro reserve of the Azorean flora. In addition to the important scientific role, this area also has a high landscape value. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38°34’58,331”N ; 28°39’18,857”W

CABOUCO VIEWPOINT

View of the Cabouco viewpoint //©NRodrigues

Faial Nature Park

From here you can see the Pedro Miguel Graben which is one of the best examples of formation of a dejection surface between normal fissures in the archipelago. You can also observe the parishes of Pedro Miguel and Ribeirinha, the city of Horta, the Monte da Guia and islands of Pico, São Jorge and Graciosa. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38°35’53,427”N ; 28°40’52,79”W

LIRA

VIEWPOINT Its arched shape together with the stone walls, the so-called “currais” (plots) that separate the vineyard, resemble an ancient stringed musical instrument, the lyre, known for its wide use in ancient times and whose name has sponsored this viewpoint. Originally built between 1820 and 1850, it was one of the Dabney family´s summer favorite locations who settled in Monte da Guia in the warmer months. From the United States of America, the Dabney family arrived at Faial in 1804, attracted by the trade opportunities that the island offered. John Bass Dabney, the patriarch of this family, with his nomination to the United States Consul General to the Azores, leads to definitive settlement of this family in Faial, deeply marking the social and economic structure of the island. The Monte da Guia, place of summer with “Porto Pim House and Winery and Lira Viewpoint” at this time restored by the Faial Nature Park and the Winery transform into a museum, is one of the many family´s heritages, whose legacy was inherited by this island. The Lira viewpoint found itself surrounded by vineyard land, protected from southwest winds by the tuff “currais” (plots) and consists of two levels of elliptical shape with a small table and benches at the top. The Dabney left Faial in 1892, leaving nearly 100 years of history and culture to its inhabitants. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38°31’19,97”N ; 28°37’41,732”W

VIEWPOINT

At February 15, 1986, in what is known as the biggest storm to hit the island of Faial in the twentieth century, with wind gusts that amounted to 250 km/h and with waves of 30 m, fate decreed that José Henrique Azevedo (Peter) had managed to shoot a wave of 60 m high in which appear the figure of Neptune, king of the seas, in this tip of Monte da Guia, and which he called “the photography of his life”. According to Roman mythology, Neptune, which has the sea as his address, was known for his bad temper and irritabilities that translated into epic storms. The fact that there was this unique coincidence of the sea God have shown himself and have left himself be photographed during a storm without memory, makes this natural viewpoint located right on the protected landscape a special place of honor to the sea. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38°31’7,649”N ; 28°37’55,962”W

NOSSA SENHORA DA GUIA VIEWPOINT

This viewpoint is inserted in the Protected Landscape of Monte da Guia, near the church of the same name. From this point, you can see the city of Horta, the Monte da Guia (submarine volcano), the Monte Queimado (subaerial volcano), and the fortress of S. Sebastião that served as protection against invaders boats passing this location. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38°31’14,962”N ; 28°37’42,456”W

PONTA FURADA VIEWPOINT

Ribeira das Cabras //PNFaial

Here you can observe an important lava flow worked by marine erosion, therefore the designation “Furada” (holed). From here you can see much of the Monte da Guia and its protected landscape. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38°31’22,637”N ; 28°39’30,796”W

VIEWPOINT

From this viewpoint you can observe the alignment of cones of the Península do Capelo, resulting from a sequence of basaltic eruptions along a located fissure west of the Caldeira and that extends to the Capelinhos Volcano in the approximate direction east-west, extending to the sea. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38°36’29,23”N ; 28°45’4,007”W

MORRO DE CASTELO BRANCO VIEWPOINT

From here, you can observe the Morro, a geological formation of great importance for the nesting of several seabirds, such as the Corry´s shearwater (Calonectris borealis), the Barolo shearwater (Pufinus baroli) and the common tern (Sterna hirundo). Activities: Nature contemplation // Birdwatching GPS: 38°31’39”N ; 29°44’46”W

RIBEIRINHA VIEWPOINT

This viewpoint is located on the old motocross track that was recovered by the Faial Nature Park. From here we can see much of the east coast of Faial and the parish of Ribeirinha. Integrated in the Volcanic Complex of Ribeirinha with formations of about 800 thousand years old, this northeastern area is the oldest of the island, originated in the first formation phase of Faial, the ancient Ribeirinha Volcano. This parish was established in 1666, occupies a total area of 11,27 km2 and comprises the villages of Ribeirinha and Espalhafatos. It offers one of the most spectacular views of the so-called “Ilhas do Triângulo” (Triangle Islands) - Faial, Pico and São Jorge – and, sometimes, of Graciosa Island. With the ocean as background, it glimpses by the north the elongated cut of fissure volcanism on São Jorge Island and, a little west of this, more distant and often invisible, Graciosa. Nearest and majestic, at west lies the island of Pico, on the other side of the water channel, whose largest volcanic cone rises to 2351 m above sea level, corresponding to the highest mountain in Portugal. By the south is the hill so-called Lomba Grande with a maximum altitude of 543 m and partially covered by forest with natural species of the Azores, with landscapes of extraordinary beauty. The viewpoint is built on top of another elevation, Lomba da Ribeirinha, with a maximum altitude of 309 m and which extends the plateau of Trás-da-Serra, which houses most of the agricultural lands of the area and where there were tens of “atafonas” (houses where was stored agricultural products) to support agriculture, typical constructions in stone and several natural viewpoints destroyed by the 1998 earthquake. Activities: Nature contemplation // Birdwatching GPS: 38°35’51,28”N ; 28°36’51,667”W Faial Nature Park

View of the Lira viewpoint //©NRodrigues

NEPTUNO

RIBEIRA DAS CABRAS

Pico Nature Park

Vila das Lajes //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Landscape of the island of Pico //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Pico Nature Park

Azorean Blueberry (Vaccinium cylindraceum) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

The Pico Nature Park, established in 2008, is the largest of the Azores. It is a place where Man and Nature live in harmony, inviting visitors to explore its geodiversity, biodiversity, gastronomy and unique cultural traditions. Pico Island, the youngest of the archipelago, has an important geodiversity and biodiversity, with several areas classified in Natura 2000 Network, the Landscape of the Pico Island Vineyard Culture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one Ramsar Site and eight priority geosites of Azores Geopark. Featuring a large area of natural vegetation with little or no human intervention, the Nature Park covers four Nature Reserves, one Natural Monument, eight Habitat/Species Management Protected Areas, six Protected Landscape Areas and three Resource Management Protected Areas. Available to its visitors are the Mountain’s House, the Gruta das Torres Visitors Centre and the Landscape of the Pico Island Vineyard Culture Interpretation Centre as well as several walking trails that extend from sea level to the highest point in Portugal.

Aerial view //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Portugal Laurel (Prunus azorica) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Landscape of Pico island //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

ENVIRONMENTAL CENTRES MOUNTAIN’S HOUSE

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

The Mountain’s House is an obligatory stop at Pico Mountain. Its main goal is to support those who want to climb the mountain and to make the registration and control, in accordance with the regulation in force. The House provides information about the geology, biology, history, climate and legal framework of the Pico Mountain Nature Reserve, in information panels and in movie format, which can be viewed in the auditorium. It is complemented by a bar with panoramic views, where one can taste some local gastronomy products or listen to the stillness of nature and enjoy the magnificent scenery that embraces the entire west coast of Pico and the Faial Island.

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

SERVICES

CASA DA MONTANHA

A Casa da Montanha (CM) é um ponto de paragem obrigatório OPENING TIMES | PRICES na Montanha do Pico. O seu principal objetivo é apoiar quem pretende efetuar a subida à montanha, bem como efetuar o seu registo e controlo, de acordo com o regulamento em vigor. A CM é complementada por um bar com vista panorâmica, onde poderá degustar alguns produtos da gastronomia local ou escutar a quietude da natureza e apreciar a magnífica paisagem que abarca toda a costa oeste do Pico e a ilha do Faial. Disponibiliza informações sobre a geologia, biologia, história, climaLOCATION e enquadramento legal da Reserva Natural da Montanha Caminho Florestal nº 9 - Candelária, 9950 Madalena do Pico, quer em painéis informativos, quer em formato de GPS: 38º28’13,89”N ; 28º25’35,33”W filme, que pode ser visualizado no auditório. CONTACTS Regulamento de Acesso à Montanha do Pico, clique aqui (+351) 967 303 519 // pnpico.casadamontanha@azores.gov.pt Normas de Conduta na Montanha do Pico, clique aqui Descarregue aqui o pedido de autorização para subidas HOW TO GET THERE autónomas (deve entregar mesmo natowards Casathe da Montanha Leaving from Madalena’s church andogoing southwest building of the Post Office about 1 kilometre until you reach a junction where you must turn aquando do(CTT), seugoregisto) left following the signs indicating “Montanha” (Mountain). Follow this road for about Caso seja entidade registada, pode efetuar a sua reserva aqui 12 kilometres and you will find on the right a secondary road which you must follow,

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Pico Nature Park

without making any detour, for ab out 5 kilometres until you find on the right a stone building, the Mountain’s House.

The Gruta das Torres Visitors Centre is an example of sustainable use of a natural resource for entertainment purposes as well as environmental awareness. The Gruta das Torres is the biggest lava tube in Portugal, with a length of 5150 metres, and it’s a part of the formation of Lajidos - Gruta das Torres, inserted in the Mountain Volcanic Complex. It is estimated that it was formed about 1500 years ago during an eruption originated in Cabeço Bravo. The visit is absolutely an innovation in Portugal, following a cavity that allows the good conservation of the cave, over a length of 450 metres and the approximate duration of one hour. For this expedition, the visitor is provided with the necessary equipment to discover the cave in its natural state and to observe various types of lavas and several geological formations, of which stands out the different types of lava stalactites and stalagmites, side counters, lava balls, striated walls and ropy lavas. In 2006, it was a finalist of the Portuguese selection commission of the V Ibero-American Biennale of Architecture and Urbanism. It was nominated, in 2007, for the Contemporary Architecture Mies van der Rohe Award and, in 2009, it won the first place in Tektónica National Award of the Architects Order.

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

GRUTA DAS TORRES VISITORS CENTRE

SERVICES

OPENING TIMES |

PRICES

CONTACTS

(+351) 924 403 921 // pnpico.grutadastorres@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

The Gruta das Torres is located in Criação Velha parish, 8 kilometres from Madalena county and about 10 minutes by car. If you decide to go by bicycle or on foot, it will take about two hours. As the Centre is located at 300 metres of altitude, a part of the route is very steep, so it is advisable to take with you a bottle of water and appropriate clothes, taking into account the change of climate. Head towards Criação Velha parish and you will find the respective signs.

Pico Nature Park

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

LOCATION

Caminho da Gruta das Torres - Criação Velha, 9950 Madalena GPS: 38º29’39,51”N ; 28º30’08,63”W

// ©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Pico Nature Park

The Landscape of the Pico Island Vineyard Culture Interpretation Centre is a building located in one of the most peculiar cores of the Protected Landscape of the Vineyard Culture - Lajido Santa Luzia, and is the starting point to understand this cultural heritage, classified as World Heritage by UNESCO in 2004. In this area, visitors can watch a short documentary about the Vineyard Culture Landscape and learn about the values that comprise it. There is also available in this Centre a guided tour to the vineyard and fig tree “plots”, to the inside of a warehouse and a traditional distillery, still in operation, as well as a tour to the core of the Lajido to understand how the building is closely associated with the vineyard and fig tree culture. Along the tour, stands out the visit to the lava fields, locally called “lajidos”, where one can see interesting small ledges made by the passage of lava flows, and where there are now several species of endemic flora.

SERVICES

OPENING TIMES |

PRICES

LOCATION

Rua do Lajido - Santa Luzia, 9940-108 São Roque do Pico GPS: 38º33’25,095”N ; 28º25’39,52”W

CONTACTS

(+351) 965 896 313 // pnpico.culturadavinha@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

The Centre is near the coast, at the core of Lajido de Santa Luzia, Santa Luzia parish, São Roque county. It is situated 11 kilometres from the villages of São Roque and Madalena. The access from Madalena can be done in two ways, by the Regional Road and/or by the road along the coast. The access from São Roque is done by the Regional Road. In both cases, just follow the signs with “Lajido” indication.

// ©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

LANDSCAPE OF THE PICO ISLAND VINEYARD CULTURE INTERPRETATION CENTRE

VOLCANOES’ HOUSE

// ©Bruno Pereira

Volcanoes’ House is located at the heart of the Protected Landscape of the Pico Island Vineyard Culture and it belongs to the built heritage of Lajido de Santa Luzia. It is the starting point to discover the volcanoes of the Azores and an important tool to spread the Azorean natural heritage, with emphasis on the geodiversity. Framed by Pico Mountain, simultaneously the youngest and largest polygenetic volcano in the Azores, Volcanoes’ House provides an authentic journey to the centre of the Earth where the visitor discovers the internal energy of the planet through unique sensations, using a seismic simulator and an interactive dome. The knowledge is presented in distinct modules that allow exploring themes ranging from the formation of the Universe to the micro-reliefs present in the Azorean landscapes.

SERVICES

// ©Bruno Pereira

OPENING TIMES |

PRICES

LOCATION

Rua do Lajido - Santa Luzia, 9940-108 São Roque do Pico GPS: 38°33’24.630’’N ; 28°25’39.311’’W

CONTACTS

(+351) 292 644 328 // pnpico.casadosvulcoes@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

Pico Nature Park

// ©Bruno Pereira

SUPPORT HOUSE PICO WILD BIRDS REHABILITATION CENTRE

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

The Pico Wild Bird Rehabilitation Centre has as main objective the recovery of injured or debilitated wild birds in order to return them safely to nature. The Centre also functions as a point of environmental promotion and awareness to population, alerting to the good practices of how to handle wounded animals and teaching about the birds of the Region as well as those that pass through the Archipelago. By appointment, visitors can make a guided tour of the Centre’s facilities and possibly observe the species in recovery at that time.

LOCATION

Parque Florestal de Santa Luzia, Estrada Regional, s/n - Santa Luzia, 9940 - 128 São Roque GPS: 38º32’31,00’’N ; 28º25’42,66’’W

CONTACTS

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Pico Nature Park

(+351) 292 644 278 // parque.natural.pico@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

Leaving from Madalena City Council and going around the building by the right, proceed about 150 metres until you reach a roundabout in which you should come out in the third exit. Follow more 100 metres until a junction where one must turn right, go on by 500 metres to a roundabout and go straight on the third exit for the Regional Road Madalena - São Roque. Follow the road for 8 kilometres until the signage of Santa Luzia parish and 400 metres to the right is the Centre in the Forest Reserve of Santa Luzia.

CAMINHO DAS LAGOAS

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LAJIDO

Start the trail in the Vigia da Baleia (whale lookout) in Sant´Ana, in Santo António parish, built in the twentieth century that was used for observing the sea in search of the great cetaceans. Where is perfectly visible the Arriba Fóssil do Gasparal (fossil sea cliff) as well as the old coastline that existed before climbed by lavas from a more recent eruption, creating a new rocky platform by the sea. In this coastal area, which is an important nesting site of Cory’s shearwater (Calonectris borealis), you can observe some typical wineries and the Chapel of São Mateus (seventeen/ eighteen century). Going further to the west, dominated by lava fields, you can observe several geological formations such as ropy lava and tumuli. This landscape unit is also marked by an extensive system of stone walls that form plots for the vineyard culture (rectangular and quadrangular) and fig cultivation (semicircular), giving the idea of being towards a black desert, punctuated by small buildings built along the coast, born of the need for production, storage and outflow of wine and brandies, currently many of them turned into summer houses. The trail ends near the Landscape of the Pico Island Vineyard Culture Interpretation Centre, in Lajido de Santa Luzia.

Lagoa do Paúl //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

The trail begins at the Cross Road, next to a house of the Forest Service, and ends in Ribeirinha parish. Along the trail that goes through a large alignment of small volcanoes, you have the opportunity to discover the lagoons of Caiado, Seca, do Peixinho, do Paúl, and more. You will also pass in altitude grassland zones. This trail is located in the Protected Landscape Area of Zona Central and in the priority geosite of Azores Geopark, Planalto da Achada (plateau), it also goes through the Habitat/Species Management Protected Area of Lagoa do Caiado and the Nature Reserve of Caveiro. In this area you will find high and active peatlands and covered peatlands (Sphagnum spp., Eleocharis multicaulis and Juncus spp.), holly (Ilex perado subsp. azorica) and juniper (Juniperus brevifolia). In terms of fauna, you find goldcrest (Regulus regulus inermis), Azores blackbird (Turdus merula azorensis), Eurasian woodcock (Scolopax rusticola), among others.

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Formações lávicas //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

WALKING TRAILS

SANT’ANA

Extension 22km Level of difficulty Easy Duration 7h Max. Alt. 710m | Min. Alt. 440m

Extension 8,7km Level of difficulty Easy Duration 2h30 Max. Alt. 180m | Min. Alt. 3m

GPS Starting point: Casa Serviços Florestais (38º28’16,45”N ; 28º17’59,88”W) Finishing point: Ribeirinha (38º26’39,58”N ; 28º6’54,60”W)

GPS Starting point: Santana - junto ao posto de transformação elétrica (38º32’42,19”N ; 28º21’52,84”W) Finishing point: Lajido - Interpretation Centre (38º33’25,40”N ; 28º25’39,10”W)

How to get there Coming from Madalena by Longitudinal Road, turn right towards Lajes do Pico at the junction with Cross Road, after about 700m you will find a junction on the left, which is the beginning of the trail.

How to get there Head towards the locality of Sant’Ana, Santo António parish, in São Roque county and you will find the sign of the walking trail.

Recommended equipment

VINHAS DA CRIAÇÃO VELHA This is a trail that develops fully in cultural landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the tracery landscape by walls of black and rough stone and “lajido” floor contrasts with the lush green vines. This route is rich in elements associated with the vineyard culture, as “rola-pipas”, “rilheiras”, shelters, wineries and tidal wells, a part of this trail, located in Lajido da Criação Velha, considered the heart of the Vineyard Culture Landscape where you walk through old paths giving access to vineyard plots. Ahead, there is a windmill (Moinho do Frade) where you can enjoy a stunning panoramic not only the vineyard plots, but also of Pico Mountain in the north and Faial Island and Ilhéus da Madalena (islets) to the west. In its final part, next to an old manor house called “Solar dos Salemas” you can make a break, by the sound of the sea and seabirds while watching the Ilhéus da Madalena (islets), the remains of a submarine volcano, ex-libris of the region.

Vinhas da Criação Velha //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

[PR5PIC]

Extension 8km Level of difficulty Easy Duration 2h Max. Alt. 45m | Min. Alt. 3m GPS Starting point: Criação Velha - Porto do Calhau (38º29’11,06”N ; 28º32’19,73”W) Finishing point: Criação Velha - Areia Larga (38º31’16,07”N ; 28º32’15,71”W) How to get there Follow the Regional Road towards Monte (Candelaria parish). In the km 97, follow the “Porto do Calhau” indication.

Vinhas da Criação Velha //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Pico Nature Park

Recommended equipment

CAMINHO DOS BURROS: VERTENTE NORTE

Caminho dos Burros //©Parque Natural

[PR2PIC] The trail begins in the Planalto Central (central plateau) area, about 830m altitude. It develops an ancient route of communication that served as a link between the population of the north coast and south coast of the island and it goes through the Nature Reserve of Mistério da Prainha. In this section you can observe several geological formations such as ropy lavas, driblet lavas, small lava tubes and volcanic cones that originated the Mistério da Prainha between 1562-64, the longest historical eruption of the Azores. There is a wide variety of species of endemic flora, many of them with protected status, such as the Euphorbia stygiana subsp. stygiana, the juniper (Juniperus brevifolia), the Arceuthobium azoricum, the Azorean blueberry (Vaccinium cylindraceum), the Azorean heath (Daboecia azorica), the Leontodon filii and the Platanthera micrantha. Crossing the Prainha Forest Park, you can enjoy a view over a large lava platform, the Ponta do Mistério, currently being a place of nesting by herring gulls (Larus michahellis atlantis). From the viewpoint of the Park, watch the Baía das Canas (bay) and almost all the northern slopes of the island. In this place you can take a break to rest or enjoy a snack. The trail ends in the Baía das Canas, where there is a beach of rolled stones and several traditional wineries, and allows you to get an overview of the entire coastline to the tip of the island.

Extension 12km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 3h20 Max. Alt. 830m | Min. Alt. 3m GPS Starting point: Planalto Central (38º27’44,52”N ; 28º16”35,02”W) Finishing point: Prainha - Baía de Canas (38º29’24,10”N ; 28º14’11,54”W) How to get there Follow the Cross Road and find the intersection of the Caminho das Lagoas. Follow it and find the respective signaling at about 2,4km.

Pico Nature Park

Euphorbia stygiana //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Recommended equipment

Pico Nature Park

[PR1PIC]

Santa Luzia Landscape //siaram.azores.gov.pt Basalt Formations //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Typical Well //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt Basalt Formations //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

CAMINHOS DE SANTA LUZIA Start the trail in Santa Luzia parish near the Regional Road. After an asphalt section, between a narrow and quite bumpy road that once served as access to vineyards and farmlands bordered by stone walls with surrounding vegetation in almost its entire length. Opens into a wide path where there are typical wineries and summer houses, surrounded by vineyards, in the Protected Landscape Area of Cultura da Vinha, classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage. Following the defined path, it can be seen in almost all its extension the “rilheiras”, ruts marked on the basalt, left by oxcarts, which transported wine. You can also see the ruins of the Forno dos Frades, with its imposing stone chimney. Along the route, go through an almost always wide path originated in the seventeen and eighteen century, with its pavement in natural rock with small stone slabs, flanked by high walls of dry stone masonry. Passing by the Church of Santa Luzia, which its initial construction date of the eighteen century, continue by a dirt road that ends in an old road flanked by stone walls and dense vegetation, which brings you back to that church, where the trail ends.

Extension 10,5km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 3h Max. Alt. 330m | Min. Alt. 3m GPS Starting point: Santa Luzia - Fetais (38º32’29,84”N ; 28º24’59,83”W) Finishing point: Santa Luzia - Igreja (38º32’46,76”N ; 28º24’2,54”W) How to get there Go through the Regional Road towards São Roque county. Reaching Santa Luzia parish, at km 10, you will find the beginning of the trail. Recommended equipment

LAGOA DO CAPITÃO

Extension 9,2km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 3h Max. Alt. 770m | Min. Alt. 20m GPS Starting point: Lagoa do Capitão (38º28’54,88”N ; 28º19”8,45”W) Finishing point: Convento de São Pedro de Alcântara (38º31’23,36”N ; 28º19’8,45”W) How to get there Head towards the center of the island by the Longitudinal Road. Near the km 21, follow the signs to Lagoa do Capitão, where the trail begins.

Lagoa do Capitão //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Recommended equipment

Sanicula azorica //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

The trail starts at Planalto Central (central plateau), near Lagoa do Capitão (lagoon). Along this trail you can observe habitats of several species of endemic flora, many of them with protected status, highlighting the Platanthera micrantha, the Azorean daisy (Bellis azorica) and the Sanicula azorica. This is a very interesting route, where besides the magnificent landscapes, you can also hear the singing birds, or even watch the Atlantic canary (Serinus canaria), the Azores blackbird (Turdus merula azorensis), the common chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs moreletti), the goldcrest (Regulus regulus inermis), the Eurasian blackcap (Sylvia atricapilla gularis) and the grey wagtail (Motacilla cinerea patriciae). You can see by the north of the lagoon, the fissure scarp of Lagoa do Capitão, habitat of several species of endemic flora, and the view over the São Roque do Pico village, with São Jorge Island in the background, and on the opposite side you can admire the Pico Mountain. During this route you will find the Fonte (fountain), a nineteen century structure, of which the waters come from the top of the hill and flow directly by a branched system of gutters and is then conducted to the this reservoir. At the end of this trail, you can see the São Pedro de Alcântara Franciscan Convent, a construction of the eighteen century, recently restored and transformed into a Youth Hostel.

Grey Wagtail (Motacilla cinerea patriciae) //©WMedeiros

[PR13PIC]

PICO MOUNTAIN LIMITED ACCESS

Common Heather (Calluna vulgaris) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

The trail begins and ends at Mountain’s House, at 1230 m, reaching the top at 2351 m altitude (the highest point of Portugal) and ending with the return to the starting point. During this walk, you can see the Furna Abrigo, a welded scoria cone composed of an algar (pit) with about 40 m deep and a gallery that served as a shelter for hikers who ventured on the mountain. Along the climb, you can observe natural habitats with rare endemics like common heather (Calluna vulgaris) which is accompanied by Thymus caespititius and Azorean heath (Daboecia azorica). As hikers advance on the way up the vegetation begins to appear scarcer, dispersed and in smaller dimensions, only a few species can survive the harsh climate on top of the mountain. It should be noted the Silene uniflora ssp. cratericola, an endemic subspecies that exists only in the crater of Pico Mountain. The various geological formations that can be observed along the climbing are of great importance. At 2050 m altitude can observe a fossil crater and on the top, a pit crater, the cone Piquinho with their driblet lavas and an eruptive fissure, with lava scorias in its surroundings.

Extension 7,6km (3,8km from the base to the top) Level of difficulty Difficult Duration 7h Max. Alt. 2351m | Min. Alt. 1230m

Pico Mountain //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

GPS Starting and finishing point: Mountain’s House (38º28’13,89”N ; 28º25’35,33”W) How to get there Leaving from the church of Madalena and going southwest towards the building of the Post Office (CTT), go about 1 km until you reach a junction where you must turn left following the signs indicating “Montanha” (Mountain). Follow this road for about 12 km and you will find, on the right, a secondary road that you must follow, without making any detour for about 5 km until you find on the right a stone building, the Mountain’s House. Recommended equipment

PONTA DA ILHA

[PR3PIC] Ponta da ilha //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Following the road “Por Cima da Rocha”, you can see the chapel of Nossa Senhora de Cima da Rocha, raised in 1854, as well as some typical wineries. You can also see vineyards and orchards with traditional crop land. After passing by the place of Cais do Galego (pier) and continuing on the sea cliff, go through some cobblestone paths, once often passed by oxcarts, to enter an important area of Natura 2000 Network, a nesting site of Cory’s shearwater species (Calonectris borealis). We highlight the presence of species of flora such as Azorean spurge (Euphorbia azorica), Spergularia azorica, juniper (Juniperus brevifolia) and tree heath (Erica azorica). In the middle of lava fields there is an elevation by the sea, the Castelete, a small volcano that was surrounded by lava from the latest eruptions. By the south of the trail, observe numerous vineyard plots, most abandoned, now occupied by natural vegetation. This pathway is an alternative to the section along the coastline, which must be used during the nesting period of a colony of terns (Sterna hirundo and Sterna dougallii), between the months of May to July. When you finish the trail, and before reaching the Baía da Manhenha (bay), you will sight the lighthouse of Ponta da Ilha, and in the proximity, one of the richest coastal habitats regarding the diversity of species of endemic flora, mostly with protection status, highlighting the Lotus azoricus and the forget-me-not (Myosotis maritima).

Extension 10km Level of difficulty Difficult Duration 3h Max. Alt. 38m | Min. Alt. 3m GPS Starting point: Piedade - Porto do Calhau (38º26’19,97”N ; 28º3’23,01”W) Finishing point: Manhenha - Porto (38º24’38,53”N ; 28º2’14,55”W) How to get there Head towards Piedade parish, Lajes do Pico county, following the road in front of Nossa Senhora da Piedade Church, towards the Calhau.

Common Tern (Sterna hirundo) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Forget-me-not (Myosotis maritima) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Roseate Tern (Sterna dougallii ) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Recommended equipment

POINTS OF INTEREST LAGOA DO CAPITÃO NATURAL HERITAGE

This lagoon has a panoramic view of São Roque village, the northern slopes of the island, the Pico Mountain, often mirrored in the calm waters of the lagoon, and the Canal Pico – São Jorge (water channel). Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38º29’12,95”N ; 28º18’55,31”W

CABEÇO DA HERA VIEWPOINT

Privileged place to observe the landscape of the eastern part of the island, some of the areas that integrate the Natura 2000 Network of Ponta da Ilha and are part of Pico Nature Park, the rock formation of Castelete da Piedade, the Canal Pico – São Jorge (water channel), part of Piedade parish and with favorable weather conditions, the Terceira Island. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38º25’8,18”N ; 28º3’11,94”W

ALTO DOS CEDROS VIEWPOINT

ARRIFE

VIEWPOINT

View from Arrife viewpoint // PNPico

Pico Nature Park

It offers a very wide view of the south coast between the parishes of Ribeiras and Calheta de Nesquim, and at north, the Topo volcano, the oldest of the island. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38º23’19,93”N ; 28º13’18,22”W

View from the Corre Água viewpoint // PNPico

CORRE ÁGUA VIEWPOINT

From this viewpoint you can see the village of São Roque, the Mistério da Prainha, the Canal Pico – São Jorge (water channel) and part of the Pico Mountain. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38º28’56,27”N ; 28º17’27,43”W

MEIA ENCOSTA VIEWPOINT

From this viewpoint you can see an extensive landscape of great beauty, covering Santo Amaro and Prainha parishes to São Jorge Island. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38º30’51,19”N ; 28º32’2,69”W

View from the Meia Encosta viewpoint // PNPico

View from the Alto dos Cedros viewpoint // PNPico

This viewpoint is part of a walking trail of the responsibility of the municipality of Lajes do Pico, offering a panoramic view of various existing lava fajãs (coves) on the northern coast of the island. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38º26’48,60”N ; 28º6’20,34”W

MOINHO DO FRADE VIEWPOINT

RESERVA FLORESTAL DE RECREIO DA PRAINHA (FOREST RESERVE) VIEWPOINT

This viewpoint gives a wide view that extends over the sea covering the Baía de Canas (bay) and the Ponta dos Mistérios to São Jorge Island. The Ponta do Mistério (with its vineyard plots hidden under dense vegetation) hosts the largest colony of seagulls (Larus michahellis atlantis) of the island and is also a nesting area of Cory’s shearwater (Calonectris borealis). Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38º29’28,2”N ; 28º14’55,08”W

Moinho do Frade // PNPico

Forest Reserve of Recreio da Prainha viewpoint // PNPico

It is the viewpoint of excellence of the Lajido da Criação Velha and considered a Built Heritage. It offers panoramic views of the tracery “plots” of the Landscape of the Vineyard Culture. This landscape is marked by the blackness of basalt stones, and you can also see the Canal Pico - Faial (water channel) and the Pico Mountain. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38º30’51,19”N ; 28º32’2,69”W

PICO DA URZE VIEWPOINT

Located 899 m above sea level, in the center of Pico Island, it is a true natural viewpoint, which presents its visitors with a 360 degree view of the whole island. From here you can see the Pico Mountain, the Planalto Central (central plateau), the Mistério da Prainha, the Topo volcano, and a tracery of semi-natural grasslands with vegetation mosaics that serve as shelter for cattle herding there. We can also see, in the central area of this volcano, its crater which is coated with several species of endemic flora. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38º27’11,17”N ; 28º21’0,54”W

SÃO MIGUEL ARCANJO VIEWPOINT

This viewpoint has a panoramic view of the northwest coast of the island, including the village, the commercial docks and the bay of São Roque. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38º30’11,09”N ; 28º17’8,59”W

TERRA ALTA Located in the parish of Ribeirinha, at the highest point of the sea cliff, 415m above sea level, it offers a panoramic view of São Jorge Island and the Canal Pico – São Jorge (water channel). With favorable weather conditions, you can see Terceira Island, at northeast of São Jorge, and the Pico Mountain, at west of this viewpoint. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38º26’42,97”N ; 28º7’9,33”W

Pico Nature Park

View form the Pico da Urze viewpoint // PNPico

VIEWPOINT

São Jorge Nature park

São Jorge Nature Park

Bryophyte //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Fajã dos Cubres //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt Trail to Fajã do Mero //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

São Jorge Nature Park was created in 2011 to protect the natural legacy of the island. It integrates several important points of interpretation and conservation that allow the visitant to discover the bio and geodiversity offered by a unique natural heritage in the world. São Jorge stands out for the natural beauty of its fajãs (coastal platforms), present all over its coast, which has been classified by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve since 2016, having several classified areas in the Natura 2000 Network, two Ramsar Sites and five priority geosites of Azores Geopark.

the Nature Park has one Natural Monument, seven Habitat/ Species Management Protected Areas, one Protected Landscape Area and four Resource Management Protected Areas. The Park has available for its visitors the São Jorge Park’s Shop, the Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo Interpretation Centre and three walking trails that go through some fajãs (coastal

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

With the common goal of nature conservation and protection,

Myosotella myosotis //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Leafhopper (Megamelodes quadrimaculatus) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

platforms) and contemplation zones.

ENVIRONMENTAL CENTRES The Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo Interpretation Centre was created in order for visitors to learn about the geological, biological and human history of the Fajãs de São Jorge, in particular, the fajãs of Caldeira de Santo Cristo and of Cubres. The building was originated from the reconstruction of an old house and its support house, which retains the original and traditional frontage. At the reception, you can enjoy a rest area and see the space which recreates an old oven, decorated with reproductions of support tools. In the exhibition room, visitors can find technical information in a multimedia kiosk and take a trip through time from the formation of fajãs up to today. You can also see several documentaries about the Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo and others of ethnographic character. It was a highlight in several websites and architecture magazines and was the cover of the C3 Korean magazine. It integrated the “Mostra Ibérica de Património Arquitéctonico – La MIPA” project, within the Lisbon Architecture Triennale 2013 “Close, Closer”.

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

FAJÃ DA CALDEIRA DE SANTO CRISTO INTERPRETATION CENTRE

SERVICES

OPENING TIMES |

PRICES

LOCATION

Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo - Ribeira Seca, 9850-205 Calheta GPS: 38º37’26,644’’N ; 27º55’48,266’’W

CONTACTS

(+351) 295 403 860 // pnsjorge.fajasantocristo@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

São Jorge Nature Park

Leaving from Calheta village, follow the Regional Road 2-2 towards the Health Centre and turn right to “Topo”. Still on the Regional Road proceed about 3 kilometres towards east until you reach a T-junction. Follow the “Nortes” sign. Arriving to Norte Pequeno parish you will find a sign on the right indicating “Fajã dos Cubres”. Go in that direction. After, descend to the fajã, passing the hermitage and head to the car park. From here you can go on foot or moto for about 4 kilometres, reaching the Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo. Shortly after passing the cemetery, on the right you will find a sign indicating the Centre, which you should follow.

SÃO JORGE PARK’S HOUSE

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

The São Jorge Park’s House was housed in the building of the old Primary School of Norte Grande and intends to show visitors the different valences of the Nature Park. It has a permanent exhibition called “Tesouros do Parque” (Park Treasures), with a map of the island with information about its different protected areas classified by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) and several information supports about the Nature Park, including themes such as geology, biodiversity and heritage. In the main room is a children play area with educational games about the Azores and environmental awareness. There is also a multimedia area, which provides information about the Ramsar Sites and sounds of nature, as well as a photography exhibition of São Jorge protected areas by Paulo Henrique Silva. End the visit in the auditorium, viewing several documentaries about Whaling and Fajãs de São Jorge.

SERVICES

OPENING TIMES |

PRICES

LOCATION

Estrada Regional, s/n - Norte Grande, 9800-132 Velas GPS: 38º40’12,852’’N ; 28º03’34,502’’W

CONTACTS

(+351) 295 417 018 // pnsjorge.casadoparque@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

São Jorge Nature Park

//PNSãoJorge

Leaving from Velas village, go northwest direction. After about 1 kilometre is a roundabout on which you should take the second exit into the Regional Road 1-2A. Follow about 500 metres until the sign indicating “Nortes” and follow that direction. Proceed about 15 kilometres, arriving at Norte Grande parish. One will find a junction on the left with the indication for “Fajã do Ouvidor”, which one should follow. Proceed about 100 metres and one will find, on the left, the Park’s House.

WALKING TRAILS NORTE PEQUENO [PRC6SJO]

Start the trail next to the old parish´s Dairy Factory. Along the way, you can see a diversity of flora, such as the Azorean daisy (Bellis azorica), the Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica), the Azorean blueberry (Vaccinium cylindraceum), the Azorina vidalii and the holly (Ilex perado subsp. azorica). Finding the viewpoint you may sight some of the fajãs (coastal platforms) of the north coast, as well as the neighboring islands Graciosa and Terceira. Along the way to Fajã do Mero is common to see many waterways, which provide the development of taro cultivation, tubercle that supplied the lack of bread and is now considered a product of traditional gastronomy. You can also observe several wires that were and are used for firewood and food transport for animals. Following the trail you will reach the Fajã da Penedia where you can wander and admire the landscape, cultures, traditional houses and places of heritage interest, such as the fountain and the Chapel of Santa Filomena. Leaving the Fajã da Penedia you will go up the hill and find a junction. If you follow to the right you will reach the population center of the parish. If you choose the path on your left you will make a detour to explore the Fajã das Pontas, and must return to the junction to complete the remaining trail.

Extension 11km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 3h Max. Alt. 480m | Min. Alt. 0m GPS Starting and finishing point: Norte Pequeno - Cooperativa de Lacticínios (38º38’46,003’’N ; 28º0’24,681’’W) How to get there Leaving from Calheta village, follow the Regional Road 2-2 to the Calheta Health Center and turn right to the “Topo”. Still on Regional Road go about 3 km towards east, until you reach a T-junction, following the “Nortes” sign. Arriving to Norte Pequeno, head to the old Dairy Factory where the trail starts.

São Jorge Nature Park

Recommended equipment

PICO DO PEDRO [PR4SJO]

PICO DA FAJÃ DO ESPERANÇA OUVIDOR

Azorean Holly (Ilex azorica) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Pico da Esperança //PNSãoJorge

Start the trail at the bottom of the Pico do Pedro (peak), on a dirt path. Along the way you will see a great diversity of flora, such as Azorean St. John’s wort (Hypericum foliosum), Azorean blueberry (Vaccinium cylindraceum), buckthorn (Frangula azorica) and holly (Ilex perado subsp. azorica). In terms of fauna can be sighted the common chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs moreletti) and the Azores blackbird (Turdus merula azorensis). Through the trail you will find the Pico do Carvão (peak), which has a crater inside, followed by the Morro Pelado that has the Algar do Montoso, the deepest of the Azores, 140 m deep. Continuing the trail, you can see the highest point of the island with about 1053 m, the Pico da Esperança and the Cordilheira Vulcânica Central (central volcanic cordillera). In this place you can take a detour and climb the peak, where you can see, on days of low cloudiness, its lagoons and the surrounding islands Graciosa and Terceira on the north side and Pico and Faial on the south side. Following the route, you will go through large patches of juniper (Juniperus brevifolia) and tree heath (Erica azorica). Continuing down, you will arrive at Norte Grande where you can visit the São Jorge Park´s House. Down to the Fajã do Ouvidor Viewpoint is possible to observe the geosite of this fajã and Fajã da Ribeira d’Areia, which together with the Fajã das Pontas, are the only existing lava fajãs on the northern coast of the island. Finish the trail arriving at Fajã do Ouvidor, where you can admire the various ponds, of which highlights the Poça de Simão Dias.

Extension 17km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 4h Max. Alt. 1053m | Min. Alt. 5m GPS Starting point: Pico do Pedro (38º40’6,539’’N ; 28º7’6,47’’W) Finishing point: Fajã do Ouvidor - Porto (38º40’43,02’’N ; 28º3’2,18’’W) How to get there Leaving from Velas village, by east, follow the Regional Road 1-2A for approximately 9 km until you find the sign indicating “Nortes”, following that direction. Go about 9 km, until you find a dirt path to the right, indicating to the “Pico da Esperança”. Follow this path around 6 m where you will find the beginning of the walking trail.

São Jorge Nature Park

Daisy (Bellis azorica) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Norte Pequeno //PNSãoJorge

Recommended equipment

SERRA DO TOPO [PR1SJO]

FAJÃ DA CALDEIRA DE SANTO CRISTO

Begin the trail in northeastern the Eolic Park of Pico da Urze. At the beginning of the way down, there is an area that allows us to stop and watch the scenery. Along the way you can find many species of birds such as the common chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs moreletti), the goldcrest (Regulus regulus inermis), the Azores blackbird (Turdus merula azorensis) and the buzzard (Buteo buteo rothschildi). For the flora are numerous examples of hard fern (Blechnum spicant), Azorean St. John’s wort (Hypericum foliosum), Azorean blueberry (Vaccinium cylindraceum), buckthorn (Frangula azorica), Picconia azorica and peat moss (Sphagnum spp.). The way down goes through caves, places which served as shelter for the workers of the nearest lands. Upon reaching the Fajã of Caldeira de Santo Cristo (cove), site of great cultural and landscape interest, you can visit the Interpretation Centre of the same name. When touring the fajã you will have the opportunity to observe several species of seabirds such as the common tern (Sterna hirundo) and roseate tern (Sterna dougallii). In the lagoon of the Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo you can find the famous cross-cut carpet shell (Venerupis decussata), the only species in the archipelago. Continuing the trail and following the route you will go through the Fajã dos Tijolos and Fajã do Belo, whose name was given because of its owner, Diogo Nunes Belo, an illustrious person of the seventeenth century. The trail ends in the Fajã dos Cubres site of cultural, heritage and landscape interest. Here you can find old tidal wells, faithful witnesses of past experiences, as well as a coastal lagoon. In this unique ecosystem is possible to observe some species of marine and migratory birds.

Extension 10km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 2h30 Max. Alt. 690m | Min. Alt. 45m GPS Starting point: Serra do Topo - imediações do Parque Eólico (38º35’51,07’’N ; 27º55’35,90’’W) Finishing point: Fajã dos Cubres - Igreja (38º38’26,66’’N ; 27º58’3,73’’W) How to get there Leaving from Calheta village, follow the Regional Road 2-2 to the Calheta Health Center and turn right to the “Topo”. Still on Regional Road proceed about 9 km towards east. After passing the Eolic Park of Pico da Urze, on your left, go about 300 m and after a tight turn, find the support parking lot of the trail on your right.

São Jorge Nature Park

Recommended equipment

FAJÃ DOS CUBRE

Common Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs moreletti) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

View to Fajã dos Cubres //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Ruditapes decussatus //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Euphorbia azorica //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Ponds of Fajã dos Cubres //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Waterfall of Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

FAJÃS OF SÃO JORGE

Typical houses of the fajãs //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

São Jorge Nature Park

The fajãs can be detrital or of escarpment, like Fajãs dos Cubres and Caldeira de Santo Cristo, or lava fajã, like Fajã do Ouvidor. The detrital fajãs result from mass movements from the upper slopes, while the lava fajãs result of a drained lava advancing on the sea, spreading at the base of the cliff. The number of fajãs is not registered however, it is possible to identify several along the coast, notalby on the northern coast, where the cliffs are steeper. The estuarine systems present in each of these coves are unique not only in the archipelago but also in the biogeographic region of Macaronesia. They are of great ecological importance, baring major conservation interest due to the biological diversity and the existence of protected habitats. The human occupation of fajãs dates back from the beginning of settlement, especially in the larger coves of the southern coast, extremely fertile areas with favorable weather conditions. Wich are optimal for the cultivation of fruits and vegetables, such as vine, yam or maize.

The fajãs are coastal coves that corre to accommodate constructions and caused by earthquakes, either by lav

Serra de São Jorge //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

espond to platforms located at the base of towering cliffs and are likely crops. They are formed either by the collapse of surrouding cliffs, va flows.

The following list covers the main fajãs of São Jorge, categorized by the district: ROSAIS: Fajã Mata Sete, Fajã Fernando Afonso, Fajã do Pedregalo, Fajã Amaro da Cunha, Fajã da Erida, Fajã Maria Pereira, Fajã do Boi, Fajã de João Dias, Fajã do Centeio, Fajã do Valado, Fajã das Feteiras VELAS: Fajã de Entre Poios, Fajã Pelada, Fajã Cerrado das Silvas, Fajã da Choupana, Fajã do Lemos. MANADAS: Fajã das Almas, Fajã do Negro SANTO AMARO: Fajã do Canto, Fajã Vereda Vermelha, Fajã de Vasco Martins, Fajã Rasa, Fajã de Manuel Teixeira, Fajã das Fajanetas, Fajã da Ponta Furada, Fajã da Queimada NORTE GRANDE: Fajã Rasa, Fajã do Caminho do Meio, Fajã da Ponta Nova, Fajã de Além, Fajã da Fajãnzinha, Fajã do Ouvidor, Fajã Isabel Pereira, Fajã da Ribeira da Areia, Fajã Chã NORTE PEQUENO: Fajã dos Azevinhos, Fajã do Mero, Fajã da Abelheira, Fajã das Funduras, Fajã da Penedia, Fajã das Pontas, Fajã da Neca, Fajã da Betesga RIBEIRA SECA: Fajã dos Cubres, Fajã do Belo, Fajã dos Tijolos, Fajã de Santo Cristo, Fajã da Caldeira de Cima, Fajã Redonda, Fajã Sanguinhal, Fajã de Entre Ribeiras, Fajã de Além, Fajã do Ginjal, Fajã das Barreiras, Fajã do Cavalete, Fajã dos Bodes, Fajã da Fonte do Nicalau, Fajã dos Vimes, Fajã da Fragueira

SANTO ANTÃO: Fajã do Castelhano, Fajã do Salto Verde, Fajã do Norte das Fajãs, Fajã da Ribeira Funda, Fajã do Norte Estreito, Fajã do Nortezinho, Fajã do Labaçal, Fajã ou Rocha da Coqueira, Fajã do Cruzal, Fajã do Cardoso, Fajã da Saramagueira, Fajã de São João TOPO: Fajã dos Cubres, Fajã das Cubas ou Baleia, Fajã da Fajãzinha

São Jorge Nature Park

Typical houses of the fajãs //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

CALHETA: Fajã Grande

POINTS OF INTEREST BAÍA DE ENTRE MORROS VIEWPOINT

View from the viewpoint to the bay of Entre Morros //PNSãoJorge

At this point you can see the formations of Morro Grande de Velas and Morro de Lemos (hills), considered geosites because of their great geological interest. Activities: Nature contemplation // Birwatching GPS: 38°41’19,699”N ; 28°12’53,513”W

FAJÃ DAS ALMAS VIEWPOINT

FAJÃ DOS CUBRES VIEWPOINT

From this viewpoint it is possible to see many fajãs (coves), with highlight the Fajã dos Cubres and Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo and respective coastal lagoons, unique in the Azores, sites that belong to the Protected Landscape Area of Fajãs do Norte. Activities: Nature contemplation // Pedestrianism GPS: 38°38’40,948”N ; 27°59’0,268”W

FERNANDO AFONSO VIEWPOINT

From this site you can see part of the Habitat/Species Management Protected Area of Costa do Noroeste, the steep sea cliff and respective biodiversity. Activities: Nature contemplation // Birwatching GPS: 38º44’27,362”N ; 28º15’54,132”W

PICO DA ESPERANÇA VIEWPOINT

Pico da Esperança is the highest point of the island, with about 1053 m, and is located in the Habitat/Species Management Protected Area of Pico da Esperança and Planalto Central. From this viewpoint you can see, with favorable weather conditions, the alignment of volcanic cones and the four neighboring islands: Terceira and Graciosa at north and Pico and Faial at south. This site is a prime habitat for the observation of species of flora and fauna typical of this ecosystem. Activities: Nature contemplation // Birwatching // Pedestrianism GPS: 38°39 ’3,8”N ; 28°4’41,085”W

View from the Pico da Esperança viewpoint //PNSãoJorge

View from the Fajã das Almas viewpoint //PNSãoJorge

São Jorge Nature Park

Place where you can see all the Fajã das Almas, lava fajã (cove) which slope falls within the Habitat/Species Management Protected Area of Fajã das Almas. Activities: Nature contemplation // Birwatching GPS: 38°38’2,272”N ; 28°4’46,781”W

PICO DA VELHA VIEWPOINT

From here you can see the parish of Rosais and the entire Habitat/Species Management Protected Area of Costa do Sudoeste and Resource Management Protected Area of Entre Morros. Activities: Nature contemplation // Birwatching GPS: 38°43’45,877”N ; 28°15’53,607”W

VELAS

VIEWPOINT Located on a steep sea cliff where you can admire the lava fajã of Velas. From this point you can observe the other islands of the triangle, Pico and Faial, and the Habitat/Species Management Protected Area of Costa das Velas. Activities: Nature contemplation // Birwatching GPS: 38°40’54,18”N ; 28°11’55,762”W

PONTINHA DO TOPO VIEWPOINT

View from the Velas viewpoint //PNSãoJorge

View from the viewpoint of Topo //PNSãoJorge

Located in Pontinha do Topo and is included in a protected area. From here you can admire the Habitat/Species Management Protected Area of Ilhéu do Topo and the Resource Management Protected Area of Costa Nordeste. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38°32’54,202”N ; 27°45’15,987”W

QUEIMADA VIGIA DA BALEIA VIEWPOINT

From this viewpoint, you can admire all the Natural Monument of Ponta dos Rosais as well as the lighthouse and the neighboring islands of Graciosa, Faial and Pico. Activities: Nature contemplation // Birwatching GPS: 38°45’8,533”N ; 28°18’35,593”W

São Jorge Nature Park

View from the Queimada viewpoint //PNSãoJorge

Is part of the Habitat/Species Management Protected Area of Costa das Velas and presents a panoramic view of the village and its steep slope. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38°40’23,029”N ; 28°11’43,599”W

View from the Vigia da Baleia viewpoint //PNSãoJorge

VIEWPOINT

Graciosa NaturE Park

Graciosa Nature Park

Monteiro’s Storm-Petrel (Oceanodroma monteiroi)//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Vineyard landscape //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

82 Rock formation //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Village of Santa Cruz da Graciosa //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Azorean Bellflower (Azorina vidalii) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

its unique landscape, geological, environmental and cultural values, such as the Furna do Enxofre (cave), which has the largest volcanic dome in Europe, and the Ilhéu da Praia

Furna d’Água //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

The Graciosa Nature Park, established in 2008, stands out for

(islet), where nests the most important and diverse colony of seabirds of the Azores and particularly a local endemism known as Monteiro’s storm-petrel (Hydrobates monteiroi). Graciosa Island, notorious for its soft and low-relief, has several areas classified as Natura 2000 Network, one Ramsar Site, five priority geosites of Azores Geopark, four Important Bird Areas

of its protected areas, distributed by two Nature Reserves, one Natural Monument, three Habitat/Species Management Protected Areas and two Resource Management Protected Areas. Available to its visitors there are the Furna do Enxofre Visitors Centre and a walking trail where you can enjoy a panoramic view of almost the entire southern coast of Graciosa Island and the other islands of the central group.

Orquídea-dos-Açores (Platanthera micrantha) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

The creation of the Nature Park led to the classification

“Burra de Milho” //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

(IBA) and since 2007 a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

ENVIRONMENTAL CENTRES FURNA DO ENXOFRE VISITORS CENTRE

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Graciosa Nature Park

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Located in the Caldeira da Graciosa Natural Monument, the Furna do Enxofre Visitors Centre is the core of the Biosphere Reserve and of the Graciosa Nature Park, while also acting as the entrance to the Furna do Enxofre. For a better understanding of the volcanic processes that gave origin to the island and, in particular, the Furna do Enxofre and the Caldeira, in the Centre there are several information panels and monitors that demonstrate the detected gas values within the Furna (cave), and also images and documentaries illustrating the natural and cultural values of Graciosa. With two floors, it is a building that respects the environmental quality in full harmony with the values of geodiversity and biodiversity, and landscape and aesthetic balance. On the ground ground, there is an exhibition area and on the upper floor, the reception area reserved for the disclosure, awareness and observation of the landscape and the entrance to the Furna. Going down the staircase, with 183 steps and 37 metres high, visitors can see an imposing cave, with 194 metres long and 50 metres high at its centre, which reveals a stunning ceiling with a perfect dome, the largest volcanic dome in Europe, covered by small stalactites and having in its deepest zone, a pond with about 11 metres deep. This cave has a fumarolic field, which consists of a fumarole with muddy water and dry gases in the cave floor.

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

SERVICES

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

OPENING TIMES |

PRICES

LOCATION

Caldeira da Graciosa - São Mateus, 9880 Santa Cruz da Graciosa GPS: 39º01’29,949’’N ; 27º58’16,299’’W

CONTACTS

(+351) 295 714 009 // pngraciosa.furnadoenxofre@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

Graciosa Nature Park

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Leaving from Praça Melo de Fontes Pereira (square) in Santa Cruz village, head towards the centre of Guadalupe parish within 3 kilometres. In Largo Padre Borges Simões (square), turn left towards Pedras Brancas place, by 3,8 kilometres, then follow in the direction of the Caldeira, by the Canada Longa.

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

WALKING TRAILS VOLTA À CALDEIRA Interior of Furna do Enxofre //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Climb up to the Caldeira’s access tunnel, covered by Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica), Australian blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon), Azorean candleberry tree (Morella faya) and the endemics Azorean laurel (Laurus azorica) and tree heath (Erica azorica). Continue on the road to Furna do Enxofre Visitors Centre where you can get information about the island, the Caldeira and the Furna (cave). Follow the path of return by the trail and you can visit the caves of Abel, d‘Água and Maria Encantada. Following northeast, by the dirt road, you can see in front the Vila da Praia parish, on the left the Senhora da Saúde hill and, in the background, the Serra das Fontes. On the right is the Ilhéu da Praia (islet). Continuing you will arrive at the southern slope. Turning south, on the left is the Carapacho lighthouse and the Ilhéu de Baixo (islet), and in the center is Carapacho place. You may see at southeast Terceira Island, at south São Jorge Island and at southwest Pico and Faial Islands. The local birdlife is characterized by endemic passerines subspecies, as the Azores blackbird (Turdus merula azorensis), the common chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs moreletti), the grey wagtail (Motacilla cinerea patriceae) and the starling (Sturnus vulgaris granti), and stands out other birds such as the buzzard (Buteo buteo rothschildi) and the common woodpigeon (Columba palumbus azorica). At the next observation point, you can get a panoramic view over Luz parish. In the center there is the Serra Dormida, where it is visible the most recent geological formation of the island, the eruption of Pico Timão, which occurred 3900 years ago. The associated lava flow is covered by the largest forest of the island, which stretches to Rochela (Vila da Praia). Behind this scenery is the Serra Branca in the center and the Serra das Fontes on the right.

Extension 10,8km Level of difficulty Easy Duration 3h30 Max. Alt. 303m | Min. Alt. 65m GPS Starting and finishing point: Canada das Furnas (39º2’8,85’’N ; 27º59’13,809’’W) How to get there Leaving from Praça Fontes Pereira de Melo (square), in Santa Cruz village, head towards the center of Guadalupe parish for 3 km. At Largo Padre Simões Borges (square), turn left towards Pedras Brancas place by 3,8 km, then follow the direction of the Caldeira by Canada Longa and you will find the beginning of trail’s sign. Recommended equipment

Graciosa Nature Park

Interior of Furna do Enxofre //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Interior of Furna do Enxofre //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

[PRC2GRA]

FURNA DO ENXOFRE

POINTS OF INTEREST FURNA DA MARIA ENCANTADA NATURAL HERITAGE

Interior of the Caldeira of Graciosa //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Islet of Baleia //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Belongs to the walking trail Volta à Caldeira – Furna do Enxofre. It is through this lava tube located on the slope of the Caldeira da Graciosa where we can observe all the inside of the caldera. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39º01’46,78”N ; 27º58’50,60”W

PONTA DA BARCA LIGHTHOUSE

CALDEIRINHA DE PÊRO BOTELHO VIEWPOINT

From the top of the only volcanic algar (pit) of Graciosa you can see at northwest, the soft relief sprinkled with scoria cones of Guadalupe parish and, in the distance, the parish of Santa Cruz da Graciosa with its historic village of whitewashed houses. At southeast, it is possible to distinguish the three volcanic massifs that make the most mountainous area of the island, namely, the Serra das Fontes, the Serra Dormida and the Caldeira da Graciosa. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39º02’22,27”N ; 28º01’50,80”W

Graciosa Nature Park

Ponta da Barca lighthouse is located in the northwest coast of Graciosa and is over 80 years old. It has the highest tower among all existing lighthouses in the Azores, cohabiting with the Ilhéu da Baleia (islet), a peculiar volcanic chimney with prismatic disjunction, and an endless marine birdlife. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39º05’36,56’’N ; 28º02’57,00’’W

Guadalupe //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

BUILT HERITAGE

Geological formations //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

CARAPACHO LIGHTHOUSE VIEWPOINT

Luz //©PauloH Luz //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt Silva/siaram

Located in Ponta da Restinga, near the Carapacho lighthouse, from where you can see the south coast of the island, the Ilhéu de Baixo (islet), the place of Carapacho with its thermal baths and the other islands of the central group. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39º00’51,39’’N ; 27º57’18,18’’W

CALDEIRA TRAIL It is located on the road that surrounds the Caldeira da Graciosa and belongs to the walking trail Volta à Caldeira – Furna do Enxofre. This viewpoint offers a privileged view over Luz parish and the volcanic massif formed by the Serra Dormida and the Serra Branca, highlighting the Pico Timão and the coastal escarpment of Ponta Branca, respectively. It is also possible to observe the islands of São Jorge, Faial and the Pico Mountain. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 39º01’37,34”N ; 27º58’56,50”W

Graciosa Nature Park

Islet of Baixo //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

VIEWPOINT

TERCEIRA Nature Park

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Canary (Serinus canaria) //©WMedeiros

quite different characteristics of unique natural and cultural values and high levels of geodiversity and biodiversity. It is the mission of the park the nature conservation and a coherent and integrated management of landscapes and natural resources in their territory. Terceira Island presents the largest collection of natural vegetation areas with little or no human intervention, and has several areas classified as Natura 2000 Network, two Ramsar Sites and seven priority geosites of Azores Geopark. With the creation of the Terceira Nature Park 20 areas were defined: three Nature Reserves, two Natural Monuments,

Caldeira Guilherme Moniz //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Algar do Carvão //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

The Terceira Nature Park, created in 2011, consists of areas with

seven Habitat/Species Management Protected Areas, seven

Are available to its visitors the Serra de Santa Bárbara Interpretation Centre, Angra do Heroísmo Park’s Shop, an interpretive circuit and six walking trails that pass through some of the protected areas.

Azorean Nursery-web Spider (Pisaura acoreensis) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Landscape Area.

Landscape //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Landscapes //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Cory’s Shearwater (Calonectris diomedea borealis) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Resource Management Protected Areas and one Protected

ENVIRONMENTAL CENTRES SERRA DE SANTA BÁRBARA INTERPRETATION CENTRE //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

The Serra de Santa Bárbara Interpretation Centre aims to be the starting point for the understanding of the natural heritage of Terceira Nature Park. Here, visitors will experience the geomorphological process of formation and evolution of the island and its relation to areas of high interest in terms of bio and geodiversity. They will also have the opportunity to “travel” to the past to understand the influence of the human interaction with the environment, with emphasis on the use, throughout centuries, of the areas that currently belong to the Park.

SERVICES

OPENING TIMES |

PRICES

LOCATION

Estrada Regional ER5, 2.ª (“Estrada das Doze”) - Santa Bárbara, 9700 Angra do Heroísmo GPS: 38°42’45,078”N ; 27°19’20,571”W

CONTACTS

(+351) 924 403 957 // pnterceira.cisantabarbara@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Terceira Nature Park

The Centre is located in the interior part of the island, 16 kilometres from the centre of Angra do Heroísmo and about 3,5 kilometres from the centre of Santa Bárbara parish, specifically at the base of Serra de Santa Bárbara south side, next to the Regional Road ER 5-2 (“Estrada das Doze”). On this road, near the ascent to the Serra, you will find the signs of access to the Centre.

Terceira Nature Park

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Sphagnum //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

CIRCUITS

VISITATION CIRCUIT OF FURNAS DO ENXOFRE The Furnas do Enxofre Visitation Circuit is an infrastructure that was designed in order to regulate the use of this natural monument, allowing on one hand, the safe access to all who wish to visit it, and on the other, protecting the respective habitats through the use of rustic materials and integrated into the natural characteristics, of limitations on caves trails. The pedestrian route results in a circuit that passes through the area of fumaroles and the north slope, adapted to existing paths and with facilitated access. The location is still provided with a set of information panels which support the interpretation of existing natural elements.

Extension 570m Level of difficulty Easy Duration 40min GPS Starting and finishing point: 38°43’44,81”N ; 27°13’50,78”W How to get there The Furnas do Enxofre Visitation Circuit is located roughly in the center of the island, north of Angra do Heroísmo city. Approximately at km 5,5 on the Via Vitorino Nemésio, turn towards “Furna d’Água/Algar do Carvão”, proceed about 7 km from the Regional Road 5-2 (Cabrito Road) until you find the signs of Furnas do Enxofre.

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Terceira Nature Park

Recommended equipment

Sphagnum //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Furnas do Enxofre //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Visitation Circuit of Furnas do Enxofre//©FCorreia

BAÍAS DA AGUALVA

[PR2TER]

The walk starts in Canada Alagoa (path) near the junction with the Regional Road. In this place you can appreciate the typical Azorean landscape composed of pastures enclosed by stone walls. The trail continues through a water line, great place to see and hear some of the species of terrestrial birds, examples of which are the subspecies of endemic passerine Azores: the common chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs moreletti) and the Azores blackbird (Turdus merula azorensis). Head towards the Alagoa da Fajãzinha (lagoon), which is one of the best examples of a fill fajã (cove) of Azores. Climb a sea cliff with peat floor where the dominant plant species is tree heath (Erica azorica). At the top of the sea cliff, with a short detour to the left, you can see the rolled stones beach of this fajã. Continuing the trail, you can see the process of colonization of lava fields by coastal scrublands of tree heath (Erica azorica). Come to a junction where, before continuing the trail on the left, you can make a small detour to the viewpoint that is on the right. Here, admire the bays which features extensive areas of sea cliffs, with prismatic basalt disjunction phenomena. Follow the path until you get into a zone consisting of Macaronesian coastal scrublands where you can see rare examples of low altitude juniper (Juniperus brevifolia). Further ahead you will find a small detour to a viewpoint where you can observe some seabirds. Continue your walk. Contemplate the Ponta do Mistério and the Caldeirão. Retake the trail to return to the Regional Road about 1,5 km from the place of beginning.

Extension 4km Level of difficulty Easy Duration 2h Max. Alt. 124m | Min. Alt. 0m

Terceira Nature Park

GPS Starting point: Agualva - Próximo do Pico dos Loiros (38°47’11,489”N ; 27°11’29,09”W) Finishing point: Quatro Ribeiras - Canada dos Baleeiras (38°47’27,64”N ; 27°12’8,20”W)

[PRC8TER]

The trail begins and ends in the São Brás picnic park. Leaving from this area, turn right and you will find below a landmark with old oxcart wheelsets, which are the responsible vehicles for the “relheiras” (ruts). Follow the path where you can watch the basalt cuts by the oxcarts wheelsets that once transported the wood to supply the population. In this place there is a forest area located in the oldest volcanic complex of the island, with a large number of endemic species of arthropods, such as the ironclad beetle (Tarphius azoricus) and the tree lacehopper (Cixius azoterceirae). From this point, the flora is also evident with some of the endemic and native species of Azores, such as tree heath (Erica azorica), Azorean laurel (Laurus azorica) and Azorean fire tree (Morella faya). Arriving at the Fonte do Cão, notice an interesting cavity provided with water, which functioned as a “reservoir” where, in the past, dogs satisfy their thirst when accompanying their owners and the cattle. Further ahead, cross a gate that leads to a dirt path that alternates with asphalt sections, and walk about 2 km to reach the end of this route. Enjoy a snack in the pleasant picnic park where you started the trail.

Relheiras //©HerbertoAlves

Common Tern //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

WALKING TRAILS

RELHEIRAS DE SÃO BRÁS

Extension 5km Level of difficulty Easy Duration 2h Max. Alt. 276m | Min. Alt. 190m GPS Starting and finishing point: São Brás - Parque de Merendas (38°44’48,279”N ; 27°7’50,18”W)

How to get there This trail begins in Canada da Alagoa (path in Agualva parish) at the junction with the Regional Road 1-1. Is located about 24 km, by road, from the center of Angra do Heroísmo.

How to get there Approximately on the km 13 on the Via Vitorino Nemésio, head towards São Brás/ Fontinhas. Then follow the signs to “Zona de Lazer” (leisure zone). The trail begins next to the São Brás picnic park. It is located about 17 km, by road, from the center of Angra do Heroísmo.

Recommended equipment

ROCHA DO CHAMBRE

SERRETA [PRC3TER]

The trail begins and ends on a section surrounded by altitude pastures and on its borders by exotic vegetation such as elm leaf blackberry (Rubus ulmifolius) and kahili ginger (Hedychium gardnerianum) that will gradually give way to native flora specimens as tree heath (Erica azorica) and Azorean fire tree (Morella faya). On the floor, you can see small fragments of obsidian (“volcanic glass”). As we advance on the way up, the junipers (Juniperus brevifolia) and the Azorean laurel (Laurus azorica) become more abundant. Usually birds are also present through endemic subspecies of Azores, such as the Azores blackbird (Turdus merula azorensis), the goldcrest (Regulus regulus inermis) and the buzzard (Buteo buteo rothschildi). Arriving at a dirt path, turn right until the end of this path, entering on a foot path until you find a second path, where you should turn right again, further climb to Pico da Lagoinha (peak). Contemplate this small lagoon and the primitive vegetation that surrounds the entire peak. On top of this volcanic cone, you can sight the parishes of Serreta, Raminho and Altares. Go down and retake the path on the left, enter a pasture that will lead to a path that runs alongside the Ribeira do Além (stream). Continue to a small viewpoint where you can enjoy some details of this water line. Continue the descent to enter a Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) forest, and further ahead you will find a path flanked by hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla), ornamental introduced species, leading to the end of the trail (starting point).

Extension 9,3km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 2h30 Max. Alt. 704m | Min. Alt. 485m

Extension 7km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 2h30 Max. Alt. 784m | Min. Alt. 203m

GPS Starting and finishing point: Malha Grande (38°44’54,61”N ; 27°15’47,58”W)

GPS Starting and finishing point: 38°45’23,60”N ; 27°21’19,58”W

How to get there The trail begins in dirt path in Malha Grande zone, at the intersection with the Regional Road 3-1, on the descent that leads to the center of Biscoitos parish. It is located about 13 km, by road, from the center of Angra do Heroísmo.

How to get there Access to the trail is made by Canada da Fonte (path) from the Regional Road 1-1, in Serreta parish, and starts in an agricultural paved path located by the trail sign. It is located about 21 km, by road, from the center of Angra do Heroísmo.

Recommended equipment

Terceira Nature Park

Biscoito da Ferraria and Pico Alto //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

The trail begins and ends in a dirt path on the Malha Grande zone, at the intersection with the Regional Road 3-1, on the descent that takes us to the center of Biscoitos parish. It follows by a section flanked by copies of native flora, such as juniper (Juniperus brevifolia), tree heath (Erica azorica) and cape myrtle (Myrsine africana). Further you will find a fork road, you should follow the left. Reaching a T-junction, take a right, walking in a forest of Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica), following a torrential watercourse where some birds can appear such as the Azores blackbird (Turdus merula azorensis), the golscrest (Regulus regulus inermis) and the common chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs moreletti). Reaching a meadow area follow the trail, passing a gate that gives access to a path, which takes us to another forest. Find a small viewpoint in Nature Reserve, there you will have views of the Vale do Azinhal (valley). Regain strength, as it will start to be the most demanding part of the trail, which will lead us to the highest point of the Rocha do Chambre. The route will start to go down and you will find the Rocha do Chambre Viewpoint. From this site you can glimpse the Nature Reserve of Biscoito da Ferraria e do Pico Alto. Then go down by farmlands and take the opportunity to observe the various volcanic formations that the landscape offers. Nearing the end of the last pasture go on the right by a dirt path, you will find a gate on your left where you should follow. Go straight along the path that will take you back to the beginning of the trail.

Lagoinha //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

[PRC6TER]

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

MISTÉRIOS NEGROS [PRC1TER]

The trail begins and ends by the support house to the access to Gruta do Natal (cave) and Lagoa do Negro (lagoon). Follow a path flanked by some specimens of Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) - introduced species - and enter a pasture, with a small tank, which leads to a more forested area. Note by the left the domes that give name to this area, “Mistérios Negros”, resulting from the historical eruption of 1761. Enter a foot path, where the species of native flora such as juniper (Juniperus brevifolia), Azorean blueberry (Vaccinium cylindraceum) and common heather (Calluna vulgaris), will gradually dominate the landscape. Further ahead, you find a small detour to one of Lagoinhas de Vale Fundo (lagoon). On the bottom of these cones was the deposition of thinner material which allowed the formation of ponds and the development of a more dense and strong vegetation as can be seen at this location. Retaking the trail, you can observe some flora specimens as the Azorean blueberry (Vaccinium cylindraceum) and the holly (Ilex perado subsp. azorica) and bird specimens, consisting of endemic subspecies of Azores, such as the Azores blackbird (Turdus merula azorensis), the goldcrest (Regulus regulus inermis) and the buzzard (Buteo buteo rothschildi). From this point, the floor becomes more irregular. Further ahead, follows a more accessible section. Enjoy the scenery, which highlights the domes of the Mistérios Negros, the Pico Gaspar and the endemic scrublands present along this trail. The route follows the Caminho Florestal (Forest Road) 24 to the place where it started. Once you reach the end of the trail you can also visit the Gruta do Natal (cave).

Extension 5km Level of difficulty Difficult Duration 2h30 Max. Alt. 649m | Min. Alt. 516m GPS Starting and finishing point: 38°44’14,1”N ; 27°16’9,72”W

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Recommended equipment

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Terceira Nature Park

How to get there The trail is located in the interior of the island, near the Lagoa Negra (lagoon) and Gruta do Natal (cave). Take the Regional Road 3-1 to find the junction with the Caminho Florestal (Forest Road) 24, which you must follow. Is located about 12 km, by road, from the center of Angra do Heroísmo.

Ilhéus das Cabras //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

FORTES DE SÃO SEBASTIÃO [PR5TER]

The trail starts at the municipal road 509, about 450 m from Contendas Lighthouse (direction of Angra do Heroísmo – Praia da Vitória). Go to the viewpoint to Contendas Lighthouse and Cabras Islets and follow the remains of Greta and Santa Catarina dos Mós Forts (both of 1581). Observe the Mós Bay where, in 1583, the navy of Filipe II of Spain deployed and ended the local resistance to the Spanish domain. Return to the initial point, turn right and follow through the asphalt road (about 550 m) until you find a barrier which you should use the existing ladder to transpose. At the pasture go right forward the ruins of Bom Jesus Fort (1644) where you can see three islets formed by the maritime erosion of an old peninsula, privileged place to observe an important colony of terns (Sterna sp). In the adjacent cliffs nests the Cory’s shearwater (Calonectris borealis). Resume the trail, climb to Pico dos Cornos and walk between native vegetation with species such as tree heath (Erica azorica) and Azorean fire tree (Morella faya). Continue through a pasture in direction to a geodesic landmark. From this highest point, with a view Mina Islet, it is possible to see a significant part of the trail. Go down through the fields until a viewpoint where you can see São Sebastião coastline confining with Costa das Contendas Resource Management Protected Marine Area. Follow the signs to the ruins of Pesqueiro do Menino Fort (1581). Further, the trail arrives at an asphalt road that leads you the Vila main square, where it ends.

Extension 5,7km Level of difficulty Easy Duration 2h30 Max. Alt. 153m | Min. Alt. 7m

Lagoa do Negro //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

GPS Starting point: Estrada Municipal 509, S. Sebastião (38°38’44”N ; 27°’04’47,47”W) Finishing point: Praça da Vila de S. Sebastião (38°39’57,35”N ; 27°05’27,27”W) How to get there From the center of São Sebastião parish, follow the signs to “Farol das Contendas” and after arriving the lighthouse, follow the municipal road 509, keeping it at your right. After about 450 m, you will find the sign marking the beginning of the trail. It is situated about 15 km, by road, from the center of Angra do Heroísmo. Recommended equipment

POINTS OF INTEREST TOP OF SERRA DE SANTA BÁRBARA NATURAL HERITAGE

VIEWPOINT

From this viewpoint you can see the traditional humanized landscape of Vinhas dos Biscoitos (vineyards) that is distinguished by its high esthetic cultural and productive values. It is a coastal area with lands compartmentalized by plots, which are small parcels delimited by stone walls, destined to the vineyard culture. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38°47’45,409”N ; 27°14’47,979”W

PONTA DO QUEIMADO VIEWPOINT

Terceira Nature Park

Inserted in the Habitat/Species Management Protected Area of Planalto Central e Costa Noroeste, you can observe the colonization process of the lava fields by coastal scrublands of tree heath (Erica azorica). The most abundant seabird in the Azores, the Cory’s shearwater (Calonectris borealis), finds in these sea cliffs the perfect place for reproduction. Contemplate the ocean where you can see Graciosa Island. Activities: Nature contemplation // Birdwatching GPS: 38°46’1,35”N ; 27°22’28,539”W

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Vineyard landscape //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Serra de Santa Bárbara //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt

Is situated in the Nature Reserve of Serra de Santa Bárbara e dos Mistérios Negros, where you can contemplate a big part pf the Nature Park as well as the natural pristine landscape of the forest-of-clouds of the Azores, one of the rarest of most valuable vegetation formations, dominated by the endemic species of juniper (Juniperus brevifolia). This nature reserve occupies an area of 1863,40 ha of the massive of Serra de Santa Bárbara and integrates the highest point of the island, situated at an altitude of 1021 m. You can also contemplate a big part of the island as well the other islands of the central group. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38°43’49,209”N ; 27°19’22,429”W

SANTINHA (BISCOITOS)

CONTEMPLATION ZONE OF BAÍA DE MÓS VIEWPOINT

Here you can observe the Baía da Mina or Baía de Mós (bay), flanked by Ponta das Contendas. The islets have one of the biggest colonies of roseate terns (Sterna dougallii) of the Azores, threatened European migratory seabird species. In the Habitat/Species Management Protected Area of Ponta das Contendas it is also possible to observe some flora endemic species of Azores and Macaronesia. Activities: Nature contemplation // Birdwatching GPS: 38°38’52,54”N ; 27°4’46,03”W

CONTEMPLATION ZONE OF BAÍA DAS QUATRO RIBEIRAS VIEWPOINT

Situated in the Habitat/Species Management Protected Area of Costa das Quatro Ribeiras, here you can observe this coast, which is a great example of the complexity of the Azorean coasts, where it is verify the presence of several protected natural habitats, associated to high biodiversity. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38°47’30,58”N ; 27°13’29,29”W

CONTEMPLATION ZONE OF CALDEIRA DE GUILHERME MONIZ VIEWPOINT

Here it is possible to observe the Resource Management Protected Area of Caldeira de Guilherme Moniz. With 1216 ha and altitudes between 300 m and 650 m, this protected area integrates a big collapse caldera with 15 km of perimeter. You can enjoy the natural landscape, characterized by the presence of rocky outcrops, natural scrublands and wetlands, with the humanized landscape, where the cattle as the Toiro de Lide (bull), has its highpoint in the Caldeira de Guilherme Moniz. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38°42’51,199”N ; 27°12’48,74”W

CONTEMPLATION ZONE OF LAGOA DO NEGRO VIEWPOINT

Besides the Lagoa do Negro (lagoon), it is possible to observe the trachytic domes, in a rounded shape, result of the historical eruption of 1761. These domes, named Mistérios Negros, have a vegetation cover that is still very young. For this small lagoon are referenced about 150 bird species. You can also do the Mistérios Negros walking trail and/or visit the Gruta do Natal (cove), also inserted in the Nature Reserve of Serra de Santa Bárbara e dos Mistérios Negros. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38°44’17,22”N ; 27°16’4,559”W

CONTEMPLATION ZONE OF TERRA BRAVA VIEWPOINT

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Terceira Nature Park

Here you can observe the Nature Reserve of Terra Brava e Criação das Lagoas. In this area, with zones of very sharp reliefs that limited the anthropic action, we find communities of natural vegetation in an almost pure state. The birds are also easily seen. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38°44’16,85”N ; 27°11’54,12”W

VIEWPOINT

Here you can contemplate Pico Alto, with 808 m of altitude, inserted in the Nature Reserve of Biscoito da Ferraria e Pico Alto. The communities of natural vegetation in the reserve occupy extensive areas of forests, peatlands and mountain scrublands, being their majority endemics of Azores. The fauna species more observe in this place are birds with highlight to the endemic subspecies, namely the buzzard (Buteo buteo rothschildi). Activities: Nature contemplation // Birdwatching GPS: 38°44’57,419”N ; 27°12’6,159”W

CONTEMPLATION ZONE OF PLANALTO CENTRAL VIEWPOINT

Terceira Nature Park

Here you can observe the Planalto Central (central plateau). With about 3933 ha, this area presents a high diversity of ecosystems, habitats and species with nature conservation interest, which goes from sea level, at west, to the central zone of the island. You can see a humanized landscape, with agricultural activities and creation of cattle, alternating with wetlands. You can find here a plaque with information of the Habitat/Species Management Protected Area of Planalto Central e Costa Noroeste. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 38°43’6,79”N ; 27°14’54,179”W

CONTEMPLATION ZONE OF PICO ALTO

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São Miguel Nature Park

São Miguel Nature Park, established in 2008, is constituted by protected areas directed to the conservation of the most representative elements of biodiversity and geodiversity, with the objective of environmental sustainability, conservation, protection and management. São Miguel Island, due to its climate and geomorphological conditions, presents a high variety of landforms, ecosystems and habitats, some of which, because of their importance, rarity and sensibility are classified as geosites of Azores

Geopark, Ramsar Sites and integrated in the Natura 2000 Network. Adapted to the geographic, environmental and cultural features, political and administrative territory, the protected areas of the Nature Park include two Nature Reserves, three Natural Monuments, eleven Habitat/Species Management Protected Areas, two Protected Landscape Areas and five Resource Management Protected Areas. The Nature Park has available to its visitors the Furnas Research and Monitoring Centre and the Lagoa das Sete Cidades Park’s Shop, as walking trails that go through several

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São Miguel Nature Park

protected areas.

ENVIRONMENTAL CENTRES CALDEIRA VELHA ENVIRONMENTAL INTERPRETATION CENTRE

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São Miguel Nature Park

The Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Centre is a structure dedicated to the promotion of the natural heritage of the Caldeira Velha’s area, which is classified as a Natural Monument. It has, among other aspects, the main purpose of promoting the particular environmental values, allowing the visitor to discover in loco the particularities of this point of interest and acting as a complementary space of informal education. At the same time, it offers a wide network of resources and promotes a touristic component. Concentrated in a space surrounded by natural landscape, the building is noteworthy for being an “object stamped on the landscape”, which adapts to the existing vegetation and rocks, granting it an organic image, consistent with the space. The interpretative exhibithion leads the visitor into a voyage through the volcanic origin of the islands, highlighting the Fogo Volcano formation. It also provides general information about the Nature Park, the geosites (emphatysing the ones located at Ribeira Grande) and specially the Caldeira Velha Natural Monument, regarding its biodiversity, geodiversity, geothermal and thermal resources. It is also possible to enjoy three thermal pools and a walking trail at the Natural Monument.

SERVICES

OPENING TIMES |

PRICES

LOCATION

Estrada Regional da Lagoa do Fogo - Conceição, 9600-590 Ribeira Grande GPS: 37º47’3,551’’N ; 25º30’3,161’’W

CONTACTS

(+351) 296 704 649 / (+351) 296 704 669 // pnsmiguel.caldeiravelha@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

Leaving from the Ribeira Grande city centre, and referring to the Health centre on your left, go forward on the Rua Adolfo de Medeiros (street) and on the Rua de São Francisco (street). Then, turn left on Rua de São Sebastião e continue through Rua Artur Hintze Ribeiro until the junction with the Regional Road (ER3-1). From there, move to the Estrada da Lagoa do Fogo e after 3,6 kilometres you will find the sign indicating Caldeira Velha Natural Monument.

The Furnas Monitoring and Research Centre was created with the purpose of disseminating the history and evolution of the Furnas Volcano and the intervention of the Landscape Laboratory in the protection and recovery of ecosystems in the protected landscape area. It functions as an observatory and integrated centre for knowledge dissemination, playing an important role in the translation of scientific information to a language able of captivating visitors for a better understanding of the particularities of local geodiversity, biodiversity, hydrology and culture. It includes an auditorium for workshops and seminars and a large covered area used for exhibitions that, through interactive mechanisms, tools, multimedia platforms and guided tours, allows visitors to discover the history of the Furnas Volcano, the lagoon ecosystem and the Landscape Laboratory. In addition, there are adjacent outdoor areas, including picnic and contemplation areas and a large green space with a privileged view over the lagoon, where visitors can enjoy the scenery and perform leisure activities. The Centre won the “Premio Internazionale di Pietra Architetture 2011 - XII edizione” award and it was a finalist of SECIL Prize in 2013. It was the cover of the Spanish publication “El Croquis” and a prominent target in some architectural websites. In 2016, won the “Tour Operator of the Year for São Miguel” in the “Holiday & Tour Specialist Awards” category of the Luxury Guide Awards and, in 2017, won the “Luxury Travel & Hospitality Awards 2018” in the “Learning Experience” category.

FURNAS MONITORING AND RESEARCH CENTRE

SERVICES

OPENING TIMES |

PRICES

LOCATION

Rua Lagoa das Furnas (margem sul da Lagoa), n.º 1489, 9675-090 Povoação GPS: 37º45’4,822’’N ; 25º20’15,806’’W

CONTACTS

(+351) 296 584 436 // pnsmiguel.cmif@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

Arriving at Lagoa das Furnas, in Povoação county, stop at the car park near the south edge next to the Regional Road. Walk about 10 minutes on the traditional cobblestone path, with the lagoon on your right, and pass by the hermitage, the old houses and the garden, until you find a slight detour to the right where you will find the Centre.

PINEAPPLE CULTURE INTERPRETATION CENTRE

The Pineapple Culture Interpretation Centre, located in the heart of Fajã de Baixo parish - considered the “Azores’ pineapple capital “ -, came from the need to establish the memory of the pineapple culture activity, as well as the promotion of the touristic use of its unique characteristics, allowing the visitation of its permanent exhibition and plantations. It is a place that tells the story of the pineapple culture in an interesting way and promotes the local values and traditions. In the exhibition space, the visitors can “travel” through the history of the pineapple and learn about the facts and technical evolution that allowed the creation of the “world’s best pineapple”. There is available information about the knowledge of the pineapple’s productive cycle, the business environment that characterized its economy, the historical figures, the gastronomy, among others.

SERVICES

OPENING TIMES |

PRICES

LOCATION

Rua Direita, nº 124 - Fajã de Baixo, 9500-448 Ponta Delgada GPS: 37º45’27,152’’N ; 25º38’56,91’’W

CONTACTS

(+351) 296 383 026 / (+351) 965 896 249 // pnsmiguel.centroananas@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

Leaving from Portas do Mar, Ponta Delgada city, with the marine on your left, head north to Rua de São Pedro (street) and turn right at the Rua dos Clérigos. Continue straight through Rua Doutor José Bruno Tavares Carreiro and Rua Eng.º José Cordeiro (previously known as Calheta). Here turn left towards Av. D. João III (avenue) and then turn right towards Rua das Laranjeiras. At the roundabout, take the first exit and turn left towards Rua Direita da Fajã. At the end of this street is the Pineapple Culture Interpretation Centre, opposite the Church of Nossa Senhora dos Anjos.

LAGOA DAS SETE CIDADES PARK’S SHOP

The Park’s Shop is a focal point for the promotion of São Miguel Nature Park, in particular for the Lagoa das Sete Cidades (lagoon), classified as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal. You can get several information about the Nature Park’s protected areas, including walking trails, geology, flora, fauna, water resources, classified heritage, among others. Inserted in the redevelopment project of the margins of the Lagoa das Sete Cidades, this visitor support house aims to be both a space of knowledge and a tourism promoter, as well as a place to the interpretation of the surrounding area, and performance of educational activities within the Nature Park education service.

SERVICES

OPENING TIMES |

PRICES

LOCATION

Arruamento da Margem da Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Módulo n.º 5, 9555-204 Ponta Delgada GPS: 37º51’46,4’’N ; 25º47’32,2’’W

CONTACTS

(+351) 296 249 016 // pnsmiguel.setecidades@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

São Miguel Nature Park

Arriving at Sete Cidades parish from the south side of the island, continue along the Ponte dos Rêgos and follow the main road for about 1 kilometre. At this point you will find signs indicating the location of Park’s Shop (previous Parks’s House), situated on the margin of the lagoon.

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SUPPORT HOUSE

The São Miguel Wild Birds Rehabilitation Centre belongs to the Azores Wild Birds Rehabilitation Centres Network, which includes two more Centres, one in Corvo and the other in Pico Island. This Centre is directly linked to nature conservation, through the rescue and rehabilitation of wounded and debilitated wild birds, and returning them to their natural habitat. It also contributes to the environmental awareness, involving the community, and focusing on the promotion of the work done as well as the information about resident and migratory wild birds of the archipelago and its importance to the ecosystems balance. Another of the Centre’s goals is participating in the study of the Azores birds’ population, collaborating on scientific investigation projects, by the registration of biometric data and by collecting biologic material.

SÃO MIGUEL WILD BIRDS REHABILITATION CENTRE

LOCATION

Quinta de São Gonçalo, 9500-343 Ponta Delgada GPS: 37º44’57,856’’N ; 25º39’52,671’’W

CONTACTS

HOW TO GET THERE

Leaving from São Gonçalo roundabout, exit to the Rua de São Gonçalo (street - west side) and proceed ahead. After passing the Universidade dos Açores (University of the Azores - on the opposite side of the road), enter, on your right, into the Serviços de Desenvolvimento Agrário de São Miguel (São Miguel Agriculture Development Services), inside Quinta de São Gonçalo and go forward about 150 metres, where you will find the Centre on your right.

São Miguel Nature Park

(+351) 296 654 173 // parque.natural.smiguel@azores.gov.pt

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WALKING TRAILS FURNAS [PRC6SMI]

One of the best ways to enjoy the Sã from the coast to the summit of the that color the landscape.

Extension 9,2km Level of difficulty Easy Duration 3h Max. Alt. 373m | Min. Alt. 283m GPS Starting and finishing point: Furnas (37°46’23,13”N ; 25°18’58,05”W)

São Miguel Nature Park

How to get there Leaving from Ponta Delgada by the highway, head towards east to Vila Franca do Campo. After passing by Vila Franca, follow the Regional Road towards the village of Furnas. Arriving at Furnas, park in the parking lot which is close to the Terra Nostra Park.

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Recommended equipment

Start the trail next to the Terra Nostra Park, one of the largest gardens in the Azores. Pass through the interior of the locality. Cutting by the Sanguinhal zone, you will reach the area of the Caldeiras da Lagoa das Furnas, secondary volcanism area with the most significant fumarolic fields of the Azores. In this area you can contemplate the beauty of the lagoon. The trail follows by its border, by a dirt path. This place is home for migratory birds, including the grey heron (Ardea cinerea) and the common tern (Sterna hirundo). Half way through the trail, you can relax and visit the Furnas Research and Monitoring Centre, where through a guided visit you can know the actions that have been developed for the recovery of Lagoa das Furnas and its surroundings, and interpret the performed trail. The woodcarving (wood sculptures) and the wickerwork structures visible along the tour are responsibility of the Centre and represent various natural and Azorean culture aspects. After the Centre, the trail continues towards the Nossa Senhora das Vitórias hermitage, built in order to bury the couple José do Canto and Maria Guilhermina do Canto. Continue along the Regional Road to the entrance to the Lagoa Seca. In this flat area you can admire the Pico Gaspar, one trachytic dome formed in the historic eruption of 1444, and several volcanic deposits of pumice. The trail continues toward the Lombo dos Milhos following further towards the center of Furnas parish, where it ends.

ão Miguel Nature Park is on foot, covering a variety of walking trails, e great volcanoes where you can often contemplate the many lakes

SETE CIDADES [PR4SMI]

Start the trail next to “Muro das Nove Janelas”. After passing by a forest of Japanese cedars (Cryptomeria japonica) and a steep rise in cement, you will arrive at the Pico da Cruz top, where you can see wide panoramic views on the north and south coast of the island and in the background, the Serra de Água de Pau. From this point the trail follows the line of the ridge of the Lagoa Azul (lagoon), where you can sight the Lagoa das Sete Cidades and Lagoa de Santiago. Along this path you can observe several species of endemic flora such as holly (Ilex perado subsp. azorica), tree heath (Erica azorica), Angelica lignescens, Azorean St. John’s wort (Hypericum foliosum) and Leontodon rigens. Finish the trail arriving at the center of Sete Cidades parish.

Extension 11km Level of difficulty Easy Duration 3h Max. Alt. 800m | Min. Alt. 265m GPS Starting point: Mata do Canário (37°49’54,54”N ; 25°45’10,48”W) Finishing point: Sete Cidades - Igreja (37°51’46,33”N ; 25°47’40,53”W) How to get there Leaving Ponta Delgada by the west side, along the highway, take the Regional Road towards Relva and enter the first detour on your right towards Sete Cidades. You will pass by Lagoa do Carvão, which is visible from the road, and immediately the entrance giving access to the Lagoa das Empadadas. Continue until you find on your left the old aqueduct in stone called “Muro das Nove Janelas” (nine window wall). You will find a small square where you can park your car. Recommended equipment

São Miguel Nature Park

MATA DO CANÁRIO

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SERRA DEVASSA

Start the trail next to the Mata do Canário Forest Park, where is located the lagoon with the same name. In surrounding area of the Lagoa do Canário you can find some endemic plants of Azores, such as Azorean St. John’s wort (Hypericum foliosum), Lactuca watsoniana, Leontodon rigens and Angelica lignescens. The trail is made by a dirt path that crosses the whole Serra Devassa (mountainous area that develops southeast of Caldeira do Vulcão das Sete Cidades), where, besides the Lagoa do Canário (lagoon), you can also see the Lagoa do Pau-Pique, flanked by the ruins of an ancient stone aqueduct, known as “Muro das Nove Janelas”, the Lagoas das Éguas Norte and Éguas Sul and also the Lagoa Rasa. Going arround the Lagoa Rasa you should continue the way back that will take you back to the Lagoa do Canário.

[PRC5SMI]

São Miguel Nature Park

GPS Starting and finishing point: Lagoa do Canário - Imediações (37°50’5,53”N ; 25°45’31,05”W)

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How to get there Leaving from Ponta Delgada by the west side, along the highway, take the Regional Road towards Relva, and enter the first detour on your right towards Sete Cidades. You will pass by Lagoa do Carvão which is visible from the road on your left, and immediately the entrance giving access to the Lagoa das Empadadas. Continue along the Regional Road until you find signs indicating the Lagoa do Canário. There you will find a small square where you can park your car. Recommended equipment

Extension 4,2km Level of difficulty Easy Duration 2h Max. Alt. 864m | Max. Alt. 765m

SETE CIDADES

[PR3SMI]

Start the trail in the Vista do Rei Viewpoint, following the dirt path that goes around the ridge of the Sete Cidades, by the west side. Along the trail you can observe extensive views which feature inside the crater, the Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul (lagoons), the parish of Sete Cidades, the Caldeira Seca and Caldeira do Alferes and the NNW (north-northwest) coast of the island, especially the parishes of the Ginetes, Várzea and Mosteiros with its four islets. Finish the trail arriving at the center of Sete Cidades parish.

Extension 6km Level of difficulty Easy Duration 2h Max. Alt. 560m | Min. Alt. 265m GPS Starting point: Miradouro da Vista do Rei (37°50’21,98”N ; 25°47’44,576”W) Finishing point: Sete Cidades - Igreja (37°51’46,74”N ; 25°47’48,87”W) How to get there Leave Ponta Delgada by the west side along the highway, take the Regional Road toward the area of Feteiras. Follow the signs pointing to Sete Cidades. Make the detour and continue until you find the Vista do Rei Viewpoint where you can park your car. Recommended equipment

VISTA DO REI

PICO DO FERRO

Extension 6km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 2h30 Max. Alt. 550m | Min. Alt. 280m GPS Starting and finishing point: 37°46’18,356”N ; 25°20’3,08”W

São Miguel Nature Park

How to get there Go toward the highway of Ribeira Grande which gives access to the Nascente until you find on your left the exit indicating “Achada das Furnas/Furnas”. Follow the street until you find on your right the sign indicating the Pico do Ferro Viewpoint.

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[PRC22SMI]

Start the trail in the Pico do Ferro Viewpoint, go down to the square by the path of little stones preceding the viewpoint, where you can pass by the iron gate, which prohibits access to vehicles, and go down the dirt road that goes to the pastures acquired under the recovery of the Lagoa das Furnas. After the bridge turn left and follow along the pasture border to the top of an over-elevation overlooking the Lagoa das Furnas. From this point you can follow a trail along the ridge between the slope and the pasture with a natural micro relief. This is one of the only pastures in the hydrographic basin of Lagoa das Furnas which was not flattened, and presents a micro relief of great landscape richness. Throughout this section you can see many native and endemic species such as Azorean laurel (Laurus azorica), Azorean blueberry (Vaccinium cylindraceum), Lysimachia azorica, holly (Ilex perado subsp. azorica), among other planted species. It can also be seen part of the work that has been carried out in combat of invasive species, elm leaf blackberry (Rubus ulmifolius), Pteridium aquilinum, bugweed (Solanum mauritianum), American pokeweed (Phytolacca americana), Chilean rhubarb (Gunnera tinctoria), Himalayan honeysuckle (Leycesteria formosa) and even some larger species that obstructed the sight lines to the Lagoa das Furnas as Australian cheesewood (Pittosporum undulatum) and acacia (Acacia melanoxylon). Approximately by one third of the length of this pasture is the access to the beginning of the descent through an extensive Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) forest, which eventually gives access to the ruins of the old house of Grená, built in the eighteenth century, which was later acquired by the Presidency.

Recommended equipment

GRENÁ

São Miguel Nature Park

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LAGOA DO FOGO

[PRC2SMI]

This trail begins about 1 km from the Praia place, by a dirt path that crosses an area of pasture. When you reach a water tank follow the path to the right through a forest area. Here you can find the ruins of a pulping plant factory of Phormium tenax, whose leaves were used in rope making and in the confection of rough textiles. Reaching the new fork road follow again the path to the right, where you can enjoy wide panoramic views over Água d’Alto, Vila Franca and its islet. Walk about 500 m and you arrive at a derivation channel that follows the trail to a small dam. This zone corresponds to a deeply embedded valley, where in addition to the dam, you can find some water raisings. The final part of the trail runs along the Ribeira da Praia (stream) to the shores of Lagoa do Fogo.

Extension 12km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 4h Max. Alt. 581m | Min. Alt. 201m GPS Starting and finishing point: Água D’Alto - Vila Franca do Campo (37°43’39,753”N ; 25°28’17,478”W) How to get there Leave Ponta Delgada by the highway towards east until you find the exit that indicates “Água de Pau (Nascente)”. Take the second exit off the roundabout and continue along the Regional Road until you pass the beach of Água d’Alto. About 400 m further on you will find a parking lot on your right where you can leave your car. Alternatively, you can park it at the beginning of the trail following the cement path that is 200 m in front of the parking lot on the left. Recommended equipment

PRAIA

PICO DA VARA

Start the trail in Bardinho area, in the Algarvia parish, by a path that crosses a forest of Japanese cedars (Cryptomeria japonica). This part of the trail is slippery, so take some care. After passing the forest, vegetation becomes undergrowth, because it consists primarily of grasses (“gramídeas”), which give the name to Planalto dos Graminhais. You will, however, find other species of native flora such as Tolpis azorica, juniper (Juniperus brevifolia), common heather (Calluna vulgaris) and hard fern (Blechnum spicant). Continuing the trail, when getting to a fork road you should turn left towards the Pico da Vara, the highest point of the island and the end of the trail, where in days of good weather you may spot all Serra da Tronqueira and the county of Povoação. Along the way you may spot the Azores bullfinch (Pyrrhula murina), rare earth bird endemic of the island.

Extension 3,5km Level of difficulty Difficult Duration 5h Max. Alt. 1105m | Min. Alt. 680m GPS Starting point: Zona do Bardinho (37°48’57,891”N ; 25°13’54,126”W) Finishing point: Pico da Vara (37°48’34,42”N ; 25°12’40,179”W) How to get there Leave Ribeira Grande by the highway towards east to find, on your left, the exit that indicates “Algarvia”. At the roundabout, take the exit that will take you towards the Pico da Vara. Continue along the dirt path until you come across a fork road. The trail begins on that site and you can park your car on the roadside. Recommended equipment

São Miguel Nature Park

[PR7SMI]

ALGARVIA

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POINTS OF INTEREST POÇA DA BEIJA NATURAL HERITAGE

In the parish of Furnas are identified around 40 places of mineral waters, from springs to fumaroles. Of the mineral and thermal springs, we highlight the Poça da Beija, hot water spring very appreciated by its therapeutics properties. It is a pleasant thermal place associated with leisure. Activities: Nature contemplation // Thermal baths GPS: 37°46’14,573”N ; 26°19’7,179”W

ALDEAMENTO VIEWPOINT

Located in front of the village of Vila Franca do Campo, this viewpoint offers a wide panoramic view over the islet, classified as Habitat/Species Management Area for its geological, biological, historical-cultural and scenic values and, in particular, due to the importance in preserving the species and habitats found within it. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°42’47,77’’N ; 25°26’30,85’’W

BARROSA VIEWPOINT

Located near the Regional Road, this viewpoint offers an excellent overview of the Habitat/Species Management Area of Serra de Água de Pau, as well as part of the Nature Reserve of Lagoa do Fogo and the north coast of São Miguel. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°45’49,79”N ; 25°29’43,19”W

BELA VISTA VIEWPOINT

Located on the northern slope of Vulcão do Fogo, this viewpoint offers a wide view over the island’s north coast, from Ribeira Grande to the volcanic massif of Sete Cidades, where stands out city of Ribeira Grande and at west the Resource Management Protected Area of Porto das Capelas - Ponta das Calhetas. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°46’41,04’’N ; 25°29’44,39’’W

CERCO

VIEWPOINT Located in the lava fajã of Ponta da Galera, from this viewpoint you have a panoramic view of the sea. Enjoy the beautiful natural pools surrounded by rolled stones and observe the large colony of roseate terns (Sterna dougallii) and common terns (Sterna hirundo) that nest in this area. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°42’29,55”N ; 25°30’38,73”W

CERRADO DAS FREIRAS VIEWPOINT

Next to the Regional Road, this viewpoint offers an excellent panorama of the Lagoa das Sete Cidades and, in particular, of the peninsula of Lagoa Azul. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°51’14,25’’N ; 25°46’34,56’’W

DESPE-TE QUE SUAS VIEWPOINT

Located in Algarvia, this viewpoint offers you a panorama over the highest elevation of São Miguel, the Pico da Vara, with its high botanical and scenic richness. You can also find a delightful picnic area with an interesting view over the sea and the slope. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°51’12,03’’N ; 25°13’29,03’’W

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São Miguel Nature Park

ESCALVADO VIEWPOINT

Located on top of the sea cliff of the Habitats/Species Management Area of Ponta do Escalvado. From this place you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of the lava fajã of Mosteiros and the four islets, as well as Ponta da Ferraria. The small building located at the viewpoint is an old lookout, once used in whaling activity. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°52’16,7”N ; 25°50’29,5”W

FETEIRAS VIEWPOINT

Also known as the Vigia da Baleia (whale lookout) Viewpoint because it was once used as a whaling lookout. It offers a wide view of the island’s southern coast. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°47’18,46”N ; 25°46’17,14”W

GROTA DO INFERNO

LAGOA DO FOGO VIEWPOINT

Along the Regional Road there are several viewpoints that offer various panoramas over the Caldeira do Vulcão do Fogo, and within it one lagoon, Lagoa do Fogo, surrounded by very steep and rough slopes, covered with natural scrublands and abundant and diverse endemic flora. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°46’9,74”N ; 25°29’18,92”W

VIEWPOINT

From here you can enjoy a wide panorama over three lagoons: Lagoa Azul, Lagoa Rasa and Lagoa de Santiago. This viewpoint is located at Mata de Recreio da Lagoa do Canário (forest), where you can visit the Lagoa do Canário surrounded by Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica). Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°50’32,74”N ; 25°45’38,99”W

ILHA DE SABRINA VIEWPOINT

LOMBA DO VASCO VIEWPOINT

From this viewpoint you can enjoy a beautiful panorama of the entire Caldeira das Sete Cidades and its two lagoons: first, Lagoa Azul, of greater dimensions, and across the bridge of Regos, the Lagoa Verde. On the western margin of Lagoa Azul, you can see the parish of Sete Cidades and on the eastern margin, the Península and the Cerrado das Freiras. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°52’48,6’’N ; 25°46’36,0’’W

LAGOA DE SANTIAGO VIEWPOINT

Located next to the Cerrado das Freiras Viewpoint, here you can contemplate the beauty of Lagoa de Santiago (lagoon), as well as the surrounding area, occupied primarily by plantations of Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica). Although this species is dominant, many elements of the natural vegetation can still be found, such as Azorean fire tree (Morella faya) and Azorean laurel (Laurus azorica), among others. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°51’5,87”N ; 25°46’38,89”W

MONTE SANTO VIEWPOINT

At the summit of the crater of Monte Santo, there are two viewpoints accessible exclusively on foot, which allow you to contemplate Vila de Água de Pau (village) and a part of the Habitat/Species Management Area of Serra de Água de Pau, as well as the rough coastline with its shallow bays. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°43’4,29”N ; 25°30’39,16”W

São Miguel Nature Park

Located on the top of the sea cliff, next to Pico das Camarinhas, this viewpoint offers an excellent panoramic view over the Natural Monument of Pico das Camarinhas - Ponta da Ferraria, where you will have the chance to observe several geological structures, notably a cinder cone, a lava fajã, a fossil sea cliff, a pseudocrater, a trachytic dome located at east, and thermal springs. You can still spot the Thermal Spa of Ferraria, which combines the traditional concept of spa, with therapeutic and medicinal purposes, with a more modern aspect of health through water and physiotherapy, as well as other diversified treatments and exclusive services. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°51’28,00”N ; 25°51’02,56”W

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VIEWPOINT

This viewpoint offers a panorama over the entire Resource Management Protected Area of Porto das Capelas - Ponta das Calhetas. The coastline includes many interesting geological formations, such as Morro das Capelas, a tuff cone formed during a submarine eruption, as well as lava flows with columnar disjunctions. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°50’26,88”N ; 25°41’6,51”W

PICO DO FERRO VIEWPOINT

Located on top of Pico do Ferro, you can admire a big part of the Protected Landscape Area of Furnas, with highlight to Lagoa das Furnas with its fumaroles and calderas, as well as the picturesque Furnas parish. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°46’18,11’’N ; 25°20’3,27’’W Pico do Carvão viewpoint //©PauloGarcia

MORRO DAS CAPELAS

NOSSA SENHORA DA PAZ VIEWPOINT

Located next to hermitage of Nossa Senhora da Paz, this viewpoint offers a wide panorama of Vila Franca do Campo and, in the background, of its islet. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°43’40,47’’N ; 25°25’53,31’’W

PICO DO PAUL VIEWPOINT

From this place you can enjoy wide panoramic views over the north and south coast of the island and, in the background, the volcanic massif of Água de Pau. This viewpoint is inserted in Mata de Recreio da Lagoa das Empadadas, a landscaped wooded area, where you will discover Lagoa das Empadadas, a lagoon surrounded by azaleas (Rhododendron spp.). Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°49’35.97”N ; 25°44’48.43”W

PEDRA NEGRA VIEWPOINT

From here you can enjoy a panorama over a big part of the north coast of the island and of the Resource Management Protected Area of Porto das Capelas - Ponta das Calhetas. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°50’8,09”N ; 25°40’21,17”W

PICO DO CARVÃO VIEWPOINT

Enjoy a wide view of the volcanic cones extending from Ponta Delgada to Ribeira Grande counties, with several lagoons in the background. In the surrounding area, you can also contemplate Pico do Boi, Pico das Éguas and Pico do Carvão. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°49’28,15”N ; 25°44’11,5”W

PICO DOS BODES VIEWPOINT

Admire a panoramic view of the southern slope of the Habitat/ Species Management Area of Tronqueira - Planalto dos Graminhais and of the south coast of the island, notably Vila da Povoação. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°44’50,03’’N ; 25°13’10,86’’W

PISÃO

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São Miguel Nature Park

VIEWPOINT Admire some of the natural habitats of the Special Area of Conservation (SAC) Caloura - Ponta da Galera, including underwater caves of great scientific value. This viewpoint offers the wider and best view over Fajã da Caloura, as well as a view over the Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo (islet). Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°42’53,22”N ; 25°29’40,39”W

VIEWPOINT

Situated in Pedreira, this viewpoint offers a breathtaking view to the sea and to Serra da Tronqueira, Graminhais. It’s a great spot to watch the sunrise, as it is situated on the east coast of the island. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°47’23,1”N ; 25°8’46,48”W

PONTA DO CINTRÃO VIEWPOINT

Here you can contemplate a large extension of the steep coast of the Habitat/Species Management Area of Ponta do Cintrão. This is an important nesting area for the Cory’s shearwater (Calonectris borealis) and the Barolo shearwater (Puffinus lherminieri baroli), which are easily spotted and heard during summer. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°50’35,90”N ; 25°29’24,70”W

PONTA DO SOSSEGO VIEWPOINT

Located in Pedreira, this viewpoint offers a panorama over Ponta da Marquesa as well as the Resource Management Protected Area of Costa Este. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°47’58,94”N ; 25° 8’44,11”W

SALTO DO CAVALO VIEWPOINT

Situated on Salga, this viewpoint offers a stunning view of Vale das Furnas, and of the northern and southern coasts of the island. Around the viewpoint, notice a number of endemic species typical to the Laurel Forest. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°47’14,53’’N 25°17’1,32’’W

VIEWPOINT

This viewpoint offers a wide panorama over the north coast of São Miguel. At a distance, you will notice Ponta do Cintrão and Ponta Formosa, as well as the ruins of the old spa of Ladeira da Velha, where the thermal spring was used for therapeutic purposes. Here, the battle of Ladeira Velha was fought in 1831, during the Portuguese Civil War. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°49’25,93’’N ; 25°27’44,59’’W

TRONQUEIRA VIEWPOINT

Located in the Nature Reserve of Pico da Vara, this location provides an imposing view of Serra da Tronqueira, Pico da Vara and Pico Verde. Around the viewpoint is the island’s most important area of Laurel Forest. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°47’47,09’’N ; 25°11’5,24’’W

VISTA DO BARCO VIEWPOINT

Located in Pedreira, you can see the Ponta do Arnel Lighthouse, the first one built in the archipelago, and the Porto de Pescas (fishing port) of Vila do Nordeste. Also enjoy a panoramic view over the Resource Management Protected Area of Costa Este. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°49’10,19”N ; 25°8’22,76”W

VISTA DO REI VIEWPOINT

This viewpoint was named in honor of King (“Rei”) D. Carlos and Queen D. Amélia, who visited this place on 1901. Is situated on the ridge of Sete Cidades, south of Lagoa Verde (lagoon) and offers a view over the entire volcanic depression formed by the Caldeira das Sete Cidades, with special highlight, located inside the crater, to the lagoons, Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul, the Sete Cidades parish, the Caldeira Seca and the Caldeira do Alferes (a pumice cone inside of which sometimes is formed a small lake). Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°50’21,4”N ; 25°47’41,5”W

PARQUE TERRA NOSTRA PARKS AND GARDENS

Inserted in the Protected Landscape Area of Furnas, Terra Nostra Park, situated in the parish center, it is one of the most attractive places of Furnas. The entrance to the park is located in Largo Marquês da Praia e Monforte and has an area of 12,5 ha. It’s a botanical park of the eightieth/nineteenth centuries, characterized by its geothermal pool, landscape and vegetation richness and variety, being a true botanical museum. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 37°46’27,151”N ; 25°18’49,617”W

São Miguel Nature Park

PONTA DA MADRUGADA

SANTA IRIA

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SAnta M

aria Nature Park

Santa Maria Nature Park

history with traditions and habits. The island is known by is paleodiversity, being the guardian of real treasures of the heritage of the archipelago formation.

Santa Maria Nature Park, created in 2008, fuses the natural

With deposits dating from the Miocene - early Pliocene – seven to five million years ago - and Pleistocene – 130 thousand to 117 thousand years ago, it is possible to observe marine fossils, such as bivalves, whelks (gastropods), sea urchins or even shark teeth, associated with sediments alternating with volcanic formations. This paleodiversity makes Santa Maria unique in the Azores. Santa Maria has rare and unique characteristics, presenting the oldest geological formations of the archipelago, with five the Natura 2000 Network and one Ramsar Site. The areas that form the Nature Park are characterized by having unique elements since fauna and flora, to landscape and cultural heritage, and are classified in two Nature Reserves, one Natural Monument, four Habitat/Species Management Protected Areas, three Protected Landscape Areas and three

priority geosites of Azores Geopark, three areas classified in

Resource Management Protected Areas. The Nature Park has available for its visitors the Dalberto Pombo Environmental Interpretation Centre / House of Fossils, one interpretive circuit, one grand route and four walking trails that go through several protected areas of

the island.

Santa Maria Nature Park

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The Dalberto Pombo Environmental Interpretation Centre resulted of the reconstruction of an old historic building in Vila do Porto. This Centre houses the collections of the naturalist Dalberto Pombo, a true pioneer in the study of the geological and biological diversity of Santa Maria and aims to promote the natural heritage in a dynamic and interactive way, with educational and scientific approach. Here, visitors have the opportunity to establish direct contact with real stuffed animals, such as butterflies and beetles of the Azores and of the world, migratory birds with stops on the island, and learn about the journey of the Caretta caretta. To know more about the marine fossils, unique in the Azores and of international importance, a new space was created in the Centre, the House of Fossils, where the visitor can observe several examples of the naturalist’s collection and of the University of the Azores’ reference collection. In the House of Fossils, there is a 3D video about the geologic formation of the island with focus on the paleontological richness importance in the international context. It also gives the opportunity to learn about some of the world prestigious investigators on the areas of geology, paleontology, biogeography and stratigraphy. This space also has an educational game where the visitors have the experience to be paleontologists.

HOUSE OF FOSSILS // DALBERTO POMBO ENVIRONMENTAL INTERPRETATION CENTRE

ENVIRONMENTAL CENTRES

SERVICES

OPENING TIMES |

PRICES

LOCATION

CONTACTS

(+351) 296 206 798 // pnstmaria.dalbertopombo@azores.gov.pt

HOW TO GET THERE

Located in Vila do Porto. Leaving from the Cais da Vila harbour follow the signs towards Vila do Porto, coursing the main road. After about 930 metres, one will find the Matriz da Vila do Porto on your right. Go straight ahead about 120 metres and on the Rua Teófilo Braga (street) the Centre is on your left.

Rua Dr. Teófilo Braga, nº 10/12/14, 9580-535 Vila do Porto GPS: 36º57’4,06’’N ; 25º8’38,05’’W

PICO ALTO [PRC2SMA]

Start the trail at the parking lot of Pico Alto and climb the steps next to a military building to the highest point of the island, with several perspectives on Santa Maria: by west the most arid landscapes with less relief and altitude; by east the mountainous landscapes, more green and forested. From here the trail returns to the starting point and follows a dirt path in a forest area towards the north. Along the section you will find large trees such as Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica), as well as some endemic shrub, such as laurustinus (Viburnum treleasei) and Azorean blueberry (Vaccinium cylindraceum). Through the vegetation you can listen or watch some of the species of passerine birds that live on the island, such as robin (Erithacus rubecula rubecula), common chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs moreletti), Azores blackbird (Turdus merula azorensis) and the endemic goldcrest (Regulus regulus sanctaemariae). The trail continues in a descending and curvy plane passing by a detour on the left to the Caldeira Viewpoint, place with an impressive view of the west coast of the island, specifically of São Pedro parish. Back to the main path, pass the “Casa do Guarda” (house of the guard), the intersection point with the Grand Route of Santa Maria and head south, towards the place of the Alto Nascente. From here the path begins to climb back to the starting point by a path used by workers responsible for the afforestation of this area. In this last stage you will pass by a monument created in memory of the victims of the biggest car crash in Portugal in 1989.

Start the trail in the center of the Espírito Santo parish, next to the church. Toward west, following the signs, the trail will take you toward an old windmill. In this section you will feel the meaning of rural parish with a large area dedicated to agriculture and livestock. The trail continues to the southeast toward a scrubland of Australian cheesewood (Pittosporum undulatum) opening to a dirt and traditional cobblestone path, where you must turn right. In the pasture is an old fountain of which drains a spring water. Toward the Lapa de Baixo, enter an area dominated by Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica). The signs will guide you to the detour which will take you to an area of springs, and then to the Ribeira do Aveiro (stream). The trail continues along the stream until you reach near the sea cliff, starting the descent to the Maia. Continuing, you can stop at several points and contemplate the waterfall. The descent is made through the terraced fields of vineyards. Along the way down you can see examples of the endemic Aichryson santamariensis and Pericallis malviflora subsp. malvifolia. Arriving at the Maia road, you can make a small detour to the left to contemplate the Cascata da Ribeira do Aveiro by another perspective. The trail continues along the main road towards the Ponta do Castelo passing by the bathing area. At the beginning of the climb, you should turn left and follow by a stone staircase that will culminate again at the Regional Road that goes down to the lighthouse. On the descent towards the sea you can observe several species of endemic flora. Near the sea are traces of the whaling industry that found its peak between 1950 and 1957, in the production of oil, which ceased in 1966.

Extension 6,8km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 3h Max. Alt. 325m | Min. Alt. 10m

GPS Starting and finishing point: Pico Alto Parking Lot (36°58’59,81”N ; 25°5’27,2”W)

GPS Starting point: Santo Espírito - Igreja (36°57’21,089”N ; 25°2’29,69”W) Finishing point: Maia - Antiga Fábrica da Baleia (36°55’43,18”N ; 25°1’1,79”W)

Leaving from the center of Vila do Porto, take the Regional Road towards Santa Bárbara/Santo Espírito. After passing by Almagreira parish, fallow the Regional Road, going up the Picos road. At the top of the climb, on your left is the forest road that accesses the Pico Alto, where you will find the panel of the beginning of the trail. Santa Maria Nature Park

[PR4SMA]

MAIA

Extension 6,2km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 2h Max. Alt. 565m | Min. Alt. 335m

How to get there

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SANTO ESPÍRITO

WALKING TRAILS

Recommended equipment

How to get there Leaving from the center of Vila do Porto, take the Regional Road, towards the parish of Santo Espírito. Arriving at this parish search indicating sings of the center of the parish, where you will find the church. The trail begins near this church, as it is signed in the trail panel. Recommended equipment

[PR1SMA]

Start the trail on Regional Road, next to the bus stop, in the place of Feteiras de Baixo, São Pedro parish. Go down the path that converges with the Regional Road. At 400 m, turn left to the dirt path which will guide you to the north coast. Upon reaching the coast, turn right to find the shortcut that goes down to the Baía do Raposo, one of the bays that integrates the Protected Landscape Area of Barreiro da Faneca. In this area, you can see two watermills, a ditch that feeds them, and a treading tank in ruins. Going up along the Ribeira do Engenho (stream), it will take you to a small but beautiful waterfall. Go up the foot path and turn right through a forest of Picconia azorica, following the direction of the Barreiro da Faneca, a priority geosite of the island. Reaching this unique landscape in the Azores, go around by the left and proceed in the road flanked by Australian cheesewood (Pittosporum undulatum) and Picconia azorica. At this stage, on arid land, there are several detours with access to viewpoints of the northern coast, highlighting the Ponta do Pinheiro Viewpoint, Baía da Cré and Monte Gordo, where there is a “vigia da baleia” (whale lookout), from where you can watch all the Resource Management Protected Area of Costa Norte and the view from the Ponta dos Frades to the Ilhéu das Lagoinhas. Then go down towards the Ribeira do Lemos (stream) and then towards the Ponta dos Frades. In the lands previous to the Ponta dos Frades, it can be observed trace fossils caused by bio erosion. Later go down toward the Anjos, to near Cristóvão Colombo statue where the trail ends. Enjoy the quality of local bathing area.

Extension 9km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 4h Max. Alt. 205m | Min. Alt. 11m GPS Starting point: Feteiras de Baixo - junto à paragem de autocarro (36°59’51,09”N ; 25°6’30,05”W) Finishing point: Anjos - Ermida de Nossa Senhora dos Anjos (37°0’21,16”N ; 25°9’12,72”W) How to get there Leaving from Vila do Porto, take the Regional Road towards the parish of São Pedro. In the site of Feteiras de São Pedro, you will find a path to the left, indicated by the panel of the beginning of the trail, in which starts the trail. Recommended equipment

Start this trail in the Dalberto Pombo Environmental Interpretation Centre, going down the main street of Vila do Porto towards the Forte de São Brás (fortress). Follow by a path that gives access to Ribeira de São Francisco, considered an interesting place for birdwatching. The trail will lead to Pedreira do Campo, an old front of exploitation of inert, with several underwater lava flows (pillow lava), unique in the regional context. The trail continues through the pastures, to the Gruta do Figueiral, an artificial cave from which was extracted limestone and clay for the production of lime and roof tiles. In the surroundings of the cave you can still see an old oven where the extracted stones were cooked. At the ceilings of the cave and furnace bricks, you can see many fossils of marine bivalves. Continue the trip along the Costa Sul, by a path once used to transport the limestone. Besides the pleasant landscape, you can also observe natural flora and avifauna. Arriving to the local access road, the signs will guide you to a new pasture entrance that leads to the slope of Prainha. The descent is done through mixed scrubland, of vegetation and species of aromatic flora. Arriving at Prainha there are veins and minerals dug in the rock and outcrops of sedimentary rocks containing fossils. Proceed by the Forte da Prainha to Praia Formosa.

COSTA NORTE

[PR5SMA]

Extension 7km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 3h30 Max. Alt. 185m | Min. Alt. 3m GPS Starting point: CIADP ou Forte de São Brás (36°57’4,06”N ; 25°8’38,05”W ou 36°56’47,35”N ; 25°8’47,40”W) Finishing point: Praia Formosa (36°57’6,54”N ; 25°6’7,68”W) How to get there Leaving from the Cais da Vila (pier), follow the signs towards Vila do Porto, coursing the main road. After about 930 m you will find the Matriz da Vila do Porto church on your right, go straight ahead about 120 m and on the Rua Teófilo Braga (street), the Dalberto Pombo Environmental Interpretation Centre is on your left. Recommended equipment

Santa Maria Nature Park

COSTA SUL

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The Santa Maria Grand Rout

//PNSantaMaria

Start the route in Forte de São Brás (fortress) and go down to Ribeira de São Francisco (stream). The path continues towards east to the Pedreira do Campo, geosite aimed at preserving and promoting this geological, paleontological and volcanology uniqueness. Seize this place to rest and enjoy the view of the southern coast of the island. From here the route continues by farmlands, towards Prainha and Praia Formosa, passing by the Forno and Gruta do Figueiral. When leaving the beach area you will pass the hermitage of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios and from here the route follows the old beach path. This ancient ascending passage connects the bay to the Santo Espírito parish. The track to Malbusca, passes along rural paths and some sections in Regional Roads, so we advise caution. From this rural center, follow along the shoreline toward the Barreiro da Piedade. Go to the Ponta da Malbusca, with a privileged view over the southwest coast. The route descends through the stream of Maloás, a geosite with an impressive geological formation. Continue by agricultural paths and as it approximates the end of the stage it is possible to make a detour to sight the hermitage of Nossa Senhora da Boa Morte. Follow the signs by dirt paths, scrublands and farmlands to get to Cardal.

Extension 16,5km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 6h30 Max. Alt. 270m | Min. Alt. 15m GPS Starting point: 36°56’44,918”N ; 25°8’50,654”W Finishing point: 36°56’25,923”N ; 25°2’33,704”W

Santa Maria Nature Park

How to get there Leaving from the airport, head towards Vila do Porto. Coming to an intersection, turn left into the Avenida de Santa Maria (avenue). At the end of the avenue, turn right to the center of Vila do Porto. Walk down the main road of the village, to find in front the Forte of São Brás (fortress).

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Recommended equipment

GRAND ROUT - STAGE 1 VILA DO PORTO CARDAL

GRAND ROUT - STAGE 2 CARDAL NORTE Leaving from the end of stage one, follow towards the Ponta do Castelo, passing by the Tia Raulinha Viewpoint. Proceed down the dirt path that leads to the fork road for Gonçalo Velho Lighthouse in Ponta do Castelo. Besides the possibility to visit the lighthouse (by appointment), in this place you can observe several species of endemic flora and geological phenomena. From here the path goes towards north, passing through the area of the natural pools of Maia and continues to Lapa de Baixo, through a detour to the Cascata do Aveiro. After visiting this waterfall, continue until you find an agricultural road. At the sight of the ruins of a mill, you will be in the surroundings of the Espírito Santo parish. Inside the parish, you should seek the Rua do Museu (street) and here you will find a dirt passage to the Caminho do Pico (path). The route continues north through the parishes of Santo António, Azenha de Cima and Azenha de Baixo. The path to the Espigão Viewpoint is made of traditional cobblestone and dirt paths. At this viewpoint you can enjoy stunning views of the Baía de São Lourenço (bay). On the Viewpoint’s exit, the path continues through agricultural pastures, crossing the Ribeira do Salto (stream) towards the Baía de São Lourenço (bay). Go down the staircase through vineyards and across all the bay until you find the access path to the Fajãzinha towards Barreiro. After the climb, turn right and continue the track in the Regional Road, heading north. Get out of the Regional Road, by your right, to the access path to the Pias Viewpoint (overlooking the Baía de São Lourenço) and proceed through this section, towards LOURAN Station. In this phase of the route you can see the entire north coast, along with the islet of Lagoinhas. Here the path reaches the end of stage, at Norte.

Extension 21,5km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 7h30 Max. Alt. 310m | Min. Alt. 40m GPS Starting point: 36°56’25,923”N ; 25°2’33,704”W Finishing point: 37°0’17,939”N ; 25°4’0,441”W How to get there Leaving from the center of Vila do Porto, head towards the Quatro Canadas roundabout, getting out on the exit to Santo Espírito parish. Following the Regional Road, you will reach the place of Terras do Raposo where you should make the detour to the right towards the Cardal. Recommended equipment

Extension 16,5km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 6h30 Max. Alt. 587m | Min. Alt. 160m GPS Starting point: 36°0’17,939”N ; 25°4’0,441”W Finishing point: 36°59’47,667”N ; 25°6’31,52”W How to get there Leaving from the center of Vila do Porto, head towards the Quatro Canadas roundabout, getting out on the exit to Santa Bárbara parish, following the Regional Road to the center of the parish. There go by the path of Barreiro to the housing center of Norte place. Recommended equipment

From the end of the previous stage, in the center of Norte, follow the signs towards the parish of Santa Bárbara, passing by the places of Lagos, Poço Grande and Boavista. Once inside the parish and after passing the Church of the Sagrado Coração de Jesus, turn left to find the primary school. Here choose the road that goes up until you find a dirt path that will take the Regional Road. From here, turn right towards the Poço da Pedreira, a geosite classified as priority by the Azores Geopark. Following the signs heading south, pass by location of Arrebentão and enter the place of Forno, go down by a footpath to Ribeira do Salto (stream), where it can be seen the Cai’Água waterfall. When you find a fountain, follow toward the west by a dirt path that connects to the place of the Cruz dos Picos. Go north on the Regional Road until you reach the Pico Alto, the highest point of the island with 587 m of altitude and rich in endemic vegetation. At this point you will find a dirt staircase that descends toward the area of the Caldeira. This part of the route runs through a forested area where there is a geodesic mark with a privileged view of São Pedro parish. The track descends towards the Regional Road and when it reaches the junction, you should choose the path on your right. This final section passes through agricultural and forest lands, ending on a fountain next to the road that leads to the place of Bananeiras, where ends the stage.

Leave Bananeiras toward Baía do Raposo. In this geosite you can visit the ruins of two watermills, the ditch feeding the mill and a treading tank belonging to the vineyard culture of the place. Continuing west, you will find another geosite, the Barreiro da Faneca, a result of the last eruptive phase of the island and dominated by clays of reddish color. At this phase of the route on arid land, there are several detours with accesses to viewpoints of the northern coast, highlighting the Ponta do Pinheiro and the Baía da Cré Viewpoints. On the end of this arid region, the route leads you to climb the Monte Gordo, where there is a “vigia da baleia” (whale lookout). From here go up to the Ponta dos Frades, then continue towards Anjos. At this phase walk parallel to the Ribeira dos Lemos (stream), until you reach the statue of Christovão Colombo, in the center of location. Go around the Baía dos Anjos (bay) by the surrounding agricultural fields and start the descent to the stone beach. Head towards the fishing port and continue to Ribeira do Capitão. Along a dirt path you will reach the Cabestrantes bay and as you progress, the airport it will appear on the horizon. This part of the section is made in a surrounding path between the coastline and the fencing of the airport. Upon reaching the end of the airport, go to the stream mouth of Ribeira Seca, in which you will enter a protected area with privileged view over the Ilhéu da Vila (islet). From here follow along the coastline to Ponta do Malmerendo. The final part of the route is made contouring the slope, from where you can see the commercial port and the village center. The dirt path continues, being interrupted by the access road to the industrial zone, continuing towards the historical center of the village.

Extension 23,5km Level of difficulty Medium Duration 8h Max. Alt. 220m | Min. Alt. 5m GPS Starting point: 36°59’47,667”N ; 25°6’31,52”W Finishing point: 36°56’44,918”N ; 25°8’50,654”W How to get there Follow by the Regional Road towards the Bananeiras site, in the place of Feteiras de Baixo, in São Pedro parish. Recommended equipment

Santa Maria Nature Park

GRAND ROUT - STAGE 3 NORTE BANANEIRAS

GRAND ROUT - STAGE 4 BANANEIRAS VILA DO PORTO

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CIRCUITS INTERPRETIVE CIRCUIT OF PEDREIRA DO CAMPO

//PNSantaMaria

The Interpretive Circuit of Pedreira do Campo consists of a walkway of unique architecture where the visitor can enjoy selected information about the present geological and paleontological heritage. The Pedreira do Campo, classified as a Regional Natural Monument, is an old inerts exploration front, with about 260 m, carved in basaltic, submarine, lava flows, (pillow lavas), unique in the regional context. Here, the presence of marine fossils, abundant and diversified at an altitude of 180 m is evidence of the island’s geological history and of the marine regression, that occurred about 5 million years ago.

Extension 160m Level of difficulty Easy Duration 30min GPS Starting and finishing point: 36°56’46,742”N ; 25°8’11,945”W

Santa Maria Nature Park

How to get there Follow the Valverde Municipal Road and go right at caminho do Facho, in direction of Brasil place. As an aternative, you can follow the walking trail of Costa Sul.

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Recommended equipment

Fossils //PNSantaMaria

ANJOS (LOBOS BEACH) NATURAL HERITAGE

Situated along the coast, mostly of rolled stones, from Ponta dos Frades to Ponta da Restinga. Apart from direct contact with the sea, you can observe birds that regularly come to this area, such as seabirds, herons, waders, passerines and falcons, especially on the upper slopes. Activities: Birwatching GPS: 37°0’19,99”N ; 25°9’53,732”W

ESPIGÃO

Beach of Lobos //PNSantaMaria

VIEWPOINT

It is possible to observe one of the most appreciated views of the island, the Baía de São Lourenço, a well cut and a welltrimmed semicircular bay, where the terraced fields of vines are arranged in a natural amphitheater. The viewpoint also allows to contemplate the Ilhéu do Romeiro (islet), a nesting place for many seabirds. In the center of this viewpoint is a shady area and tables that allows visitors to enjoy a moment of leisure. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 36°58’56,11”N ; 25°2’53,369”W

MACELA VIEWPOINT

Located on the top of Baía da Praia Formosa (bay), this viewpoint allows visitors to contemplate a unique landscape shaped by intense marine erosive action. Praia Formosa, characterized by its clear sand deposits, is one of the most appreciated bathing areas of the island. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 36°57’13,56”N ; 25°6’12,47”W

AREA SURROUNDING THE AIRPORT

Santa Maria Nature Park

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The area surrounding the airport includes the entire west coast of the island, between Ponta do Malmerendo and Baía dos Cabrestantes. In this vast area of clay soil populated by woody vegetation, situated beyond the airport runway (which is sealed), are the best areas for birdwatching: the Ponta do Malmerendo lighthouse (as a viewpoint of Ilhéu da Vila), Ribeira Seca, south of the airport, west of the airport, Lagoa do Ginjal, Abegoaria Grande and Cova Areão. Activities: Birwatching GPS: 36°58’54,90”N ; 25°10’36,08”W (Ponta do Malmerendo) 36°58’40,46”N ; 25°09’43,09”W (Lagoa do Ginjal) 36°57’26,97”N ; 25°10’09,37”W (Campo Pequeno) 36°56’34,39”N ; 25°09’36,16”W (Abegoaria Grande)

Macela viewpoint //PNSantaMaria

VIEWPOINT

This viewpoint is located on the Regional Road that leads to the parish of Santa Bárbara. After climbing a few basaltic stairs, it is possible to admire Santa Bárbara parish, often called “Freguesia Presépio” (manger scene parish), given the dispersion of the houses and architectural features true to the typical features brought by settlers. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 36°58’32,67”N ; 25°4’33,65”W

PEDREIRA DA TIA RAULINHA VIEWPOINT

This small viewpoint located on the side of the Regional Road, offers a panorama over the Protected Landscape Area of Baía da Maia. This bay is an example of the united work between nature and man: the terraced fields of vineyards, where grapes called “uva-de-cheiro” are still cultivated, and the natural low areas of Maia. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 36°56’9,859”N ; 25°1’14,279”W

PICOS

VIEWPOINT This viewpoint, situated on the Regional Road that leads to Pico Alto offers a privileged view over the parish of Vila do Porto and the entire southwestern area of the island. At a distance you can also see the Nature Reserve of Ilhéu da Vila, the Pico do Facho and the Natural Monument of Pedreira do Campo. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 36°58’21,05”N ; 25°5’19,299”W

RIBEIRA DE SÃO FRANCISCO VIEWPOINT

The Foz Ribeira de São Francisco (stream mouth), commonly called “Calhau da Roupa”, is located on the southern coast of the island, on the peripheries of Vila do Porto, near the port area. It is the entrance for many tourists that come to visit the island, and for some migratory birds that rest and search for food on the stream and the marina. Activities: Birwatching GPS: 36°56’46,15”N ; 25°8’43,45”W

VIGIA DA BALEIA Pico Alto viewpoint//PNSantaMaria

VIEWPOINT

PICO ALTO

From this viewpoint, situated on the southeastern coast of the island, enjoy a privileged view of Ponta do Castelo, distinguished by the beauty of its coastline, where several species of endemic flora predominate. Ponta do Castelo was once a lookout for whaling activity. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 36°55’49,339”N ; 25°1’08,109”W

With about 587 m of altitude, Pico Alto is the highest point of Santa Maria and the best place to have a panoramic view of the entire island. You can observe several endemic species of flora and fauna. At the top, you can easily see the contrasts between the occidental and oriental parts of the island. The occidental part is lower, flat and of yellow-brown color, while the oriental part is more humid and wooded, covered with green highlands. Activities: Nature contemplation GPS: 36°58’56,12”N ; 25°5’27,19”W

Vigia da Baleia viewpoint //PNSantaMaria

VIEWPOINT

Detailed information about geodiversity and biodiversity of the islands are available on our mobile app, especially the Field Guide, which allows an easy identification of fauna and flora species of the archipelago. For more general information and activities: parquesnaturais.azores.gov.pt, on Facebook page or http://educarparaoambiente.azores.gov.pt/. You can also view and download photos and multimedia content in: siaram.azores.gov.pt and consult marine images in www.horta.uac.pt/imagdop.

COVER AND TABS PHOTOGRAPHIES BY (TOP TO BOTTOM, LEFT TO RIGHT): COVER:1.CaldeirãoofCorvo//©PHSilva//siaram.azores.gov.pt;2.PortodoComprido,Faial//©PHSilva//siaram.azores.gov.pt;3.RochadosBordões,Flores//©PHSilva//siaram.azores.gov.pt;4.CaldeiraofGraciosa//©PHSilva//siaram.azores.gov.pt; 5. Pico Mountain//©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 6. Barreiro d Faneca, Santa Maria //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 7. Caldeira da Fajã de Santo Cristo, São Jorge //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 8. Lakes of Sete Cidades, São Miguel //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 9. Landscape, Terceira //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt. FLORES: 1. Angelica lignescens //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 2. Rocha dos Bordões //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 3. Lagoas Negra e Comprida //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 4. //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 5. Napaeus delibutus //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 6. //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 7. Trachurus picturatus //©FCardigos/ImagDOP; 8. Cubres (Solidago sempervirens) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 9. Costa da ilha //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt. CORVO: 1. Mero (Epinephelus marginatus)//©FCardigos/ImagDOP; 2. Caldeirão //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 3. Paisagem do Corvo //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 4. View of Corvo with the island of Flores in the background //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 5. Traditional windmill //©; 6. Vila do Corvo //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 7. Huperzia dentata //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 8. Vila do Corvo //©PHSilva // siaram.azores. gov.pt ; 9. Veronica dabneyi //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 10. Myosotis maritima //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 11. View of Corvo //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 12. View of Corvo //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 13. Caldeirão //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt. FAIAL: 1. Charcos de Pedro Miguel //©JoséGarcia ; 2. Capelinhos Volcano //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 3. Blue Shark (Prionace glauca) //©MarcoAurélio/ImagDRAM; 4. Panoramic view of the city, Monte da Guia, with the islands of Pico and São Jorge in the background //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 5. Heather (Calluna vulgaris) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 6. Caldeira //©JoséGarcia; 7. Caminho da levada //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt. PICO: 1. Vila da Madalena //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 2. Typical Azorean house //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 3. Vila das Lajes //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 4. Catchfly (Silene uniflora) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores. gov.pt; 5. Lajidos //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 6. Lighthouse of São Mateus //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 7. Vineyards //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 8. Traditional fishing boats //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 9. Sperm Whale (Physeter macrocephalus) //©JFontes; 10. Pico Mountain //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt. SÃO JORGE: 1. Landscape //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 2. Serra do Topo //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 3. Typical boats //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 4. Guellyjack (Pseudocaranx dentex) //©MarcoAurélio/ ImagDRAM; 5. //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 6. Traditional house //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 7. Blackbird (Turdus merula azorensis) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 8. Landscape //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt. GRACIOSA:1.MysteryBlenny(Parablenniusincognitus)//©MarcoAurélio/ImagDRAM;2.Sulfurcrystals//©PHSilva//siaram.azores.gov.pt;3.Traditionalwindmill//©PHSilva//siaram.azores.gov.pt;4.FurnadoEnxofre//©PHSilva//siaram.azores.gov.pt; 5. Anaspis proteus //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 6. Furna da Maria Encantada //PNGraciosa; 7. Carapacho //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 8. Landscape //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 9. Ilhéu da Praia //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt. TERCEIRA: 1. Caldeira Guilherme Moniz //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 2. Furnas do Enxofre //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 3. Algar do Carvão //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 4. Angra do Heroísmo //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 5. Ilhéu das Cabras //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 6. Heather (Calluna vulgaris) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 7. Thalassoma pavo //©FCardigos; 8. Lagoa da Serra de Santa Bárbara //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 9. Bull //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt. SÃO MIGUEL: 1. Landscape //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 2. Black Moray (Enchelycore anatina) //©MarcoAurélio/ImagDRAM; 3. Ilhéu de Vila Franca //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 4. Lakes of Sete Cidades //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 5. Terra Nostra Park //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 6. Aqueduct of Algar do Carvão //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 7. Gruta do Carvão //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 8. Lagoa Rasa //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 9. Saint Dabeoc’s Heath (Daboecia azorica) //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 10. Sete Cidades Lakes //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt. SANTA MARIA: 1. Lighthouse of Ilhéu das Formigas //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 2. Ribeira do Engenho //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 3. Pedra-que-pica //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 4. Coast of Santa Maria //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 5. Líquen //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 6. Spergularia azorica //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 7. Fossils //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 8. Lighthouse of Ilhéu das Formigas // ©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 9. Landscape //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 10. Landscape //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 11. Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta) //©JFontes/ImagDOP. BACK-COVER: 1. Angra do Heroísmo //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 2. Bay of the city of Horta //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 3. Lagoa Negra e Lagoa Comprida //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 4. Landscape of Ferraria //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 5. Vineyards of Pico //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 6. Lighthouse of Ilhéu das Formigas //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 7. Fajãs of São Jorge //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 8. View of Graciosa //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt; 9. Vila do Corvo //©PHSilva // siaram.azores.gov.pt.

CONTACTS FLORES NATURE PARK

Environmental Service of Flores Rua João Augusto Silveira 9960-440 Lajes das Flores (+351) 292 241 440 parque.natural.flores@azores.gov.pt

CORVO NATURE PARK

Environmental Service of Corvo Canada do Graciosa,s/n 9980 - 031 Corvo (+351) 292 241 450 parque.natural.corvo@azores.gov.pt

FAIAL NATURE PARK

Environmental Service of Faial Monte da Guia 9900-401 Horta (+351) 292 207 382 parque.natural.faial@azores.gov.pt

PICO NATURE PARK

Environmental Service of Pico Rua do Lajido de Santa Luzia 9940-108 S. Roque do Pico (+351) 292 241 420 parque.natural.pico@azores.gov.pt

SÃO JORGE NATURE PARK

Environmental Service of São Jorge Rua Nova - Relvinha 9850-042 Calheta (+351) 296 403 860 parque.natural.sjorge@azores.gov.pt

GRACIOSA NATURE PARK

Environmental Service of Graciosa Rua Victor Cordon, n.º 11 9880-390 Santa Cruz Graciosa (+351) 295 403 870 parque.natural.graciosa@azores.gov.pt

TERCEIRA NATURE PARK

Environmental Service of Terceira Rua do Galo, nº 118 9700-091 Angra do Heroísmo (+351) 295 403 800 parque.natural.terceira@azores.gov.pt

SÃO MIGUEL NATURE PARK

Environmental Service of São Miguel Rua Professor Alfredo Bensaúde nº 6 9500-700 Ponta Delgada (+351) 296 206 785 parque.natural.smiguel@azores.gov.pt

SANTA MARIA NATURE PARK

Environmental Service of Santa Maria Rua Dr. Teófilo Braga nº 10/12/14 9580-535 Vila do Porto (+351) 296 206 790 parque.natural.stmaria@azores.gov.pt