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Flores Island, often referred to as the “Island of Flowers,” is the westernmost island in Portugal's Azores archipelago. Known for its dramatic landscapes, stunning waterfalls, and lush green valleys, Flores is a hiker’s paradise. This remote island offers a variety of trails that cater to all levels of hikers, from serene coastal walks to challenging mountain ascents. Whether you're seeking solitude in nature or breathtaking viewpoints, Flores Island has something for every adventurer. Here’s your ultimate guide to the 10 best hikes on Flores Island, complete with trail details, directions, and highlights.
1. Fajã Grande to Poço do Bacalhau Trail
The Fajã Grande to Poço do Bacalhau Trail is one of the most scenic hikes on Flores Island, offering a stunning combination of coastal and waterfall views. This easy trail begins in the picturesque village of Fajã Grande, the westernmost settlement in Europe, and leads you along the coast before turning inland to reach the Poço do Bacalhau waterfall. The trail meanders through lush meadows and past traditional stone houses, with the sound of the Atlantic Ocean in the background. The highlight is the Poço do Bacalhau, a magnificent waterfall that plunges into a crystal-clear pool, perfect for a refreshing swim.
Trail Details:
- Length: 4 kilometers
- Difficulty: Easy
- Duration: Approximately 1.5-2 hours
- Trail Type: Out and Back
- Ratings:
- Difficulty Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (Easy)
- Scenic Rating: ★★★★★ (Spectacular)
Starting Point: Fajã Grande
How to Get There:
- By Car: From Santa Cruz das Flores, take the EN1-2A road towards Fajã Grande.
- By Public Transport: Buses from Santa Cruz das Flores to Fajã Grande are available.
Trail Highlights: Coastal views, traditional stone houses, and the stunning Poço do Bacalhau waterfall.
Insider Tip: Bring a swimsuit to enjoy a dip in the waterfall pool.
2. Rocha dos Bordões Trail
The Rocha dos Bordões Trail takes you to one of Flores Island’s most iconic landmarks, the Rocha dos Bordões, a towering formation of vertical basalt columns. This moderate trail starts near the village of Mosteiros and winds through lush pastures and forested areas before reaching the impressive basalt columns. The trail offers panoramic views of the island’s rugged interior, with rolling hills and deep valleys stretching out below. As you approach Rocha dos Bordões, the sheer size and unusual formation of the columns are awe-inspiring, making this hike a must-do for geology enthusiasts and photographers.
Trail Details:
- Length: 6 kilometers
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours
- Trail Type: Out and Back
- Ratings:
- Difficulty Rating: ★★★☆☆ (Moderate)
- Scenic Rating: ★★★★☆ (Unique)
Starting Point: Near Mosteiros
How to Get There:
- By Car: From Santa Cruz das Flores, take the EN1-2A road towards Mosteiros.
- By Public Transport: Limited public transport is available; driving is recommended.
Trail Highlights: The impressive Rocha dos Bordões and panoramic views of the island’s interior.
Insider Tip: Visit in the morning when the light enhances the texture and color of the basalt columns.
3. Lagoa Comprida to Lagoa Funda Trail
The Lagoa Comprida to Lagoa Funda Trail is a beautiful hike that takes you through the heart of Flores Island’s lush, lake-filled interior. This moderate trail connects two of the island’s most picturesque crater lakes, Lagoa Comprida and Lagoa Funda, offering serene views and a tranquil atmosphere. The trail passes through dense vegetation, including endemic Azorean flora, and provides stunning vantage points overlooking the emerald-green waters of the lakes. This hike is ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat into Flores' unspoiled landscapes.
Trail Details:
- Length: 5 kilometers
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours
- Trail Type: Point to Point
- Ratings:
- Difficulty Rating: ★★★☆☆ (Moderate)
- Scenic Rating: ★★★★☆ (Serene)
Starting Point: Lagoa Comprida
How to Get There:
- By Car: From Santa Cruz das Flores, take the EN1-2A road towards Lagoa Comprida.
- By Public Transport: Limited public transport is available; driving is recommended.
Trail Highlights: The tranquil crater lakes, lush vegetation, and serene landscapes.
Insider Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lakeside.
4. Ponta Delgada to Fajã Grande Coastal Trail
This coastal trail is one of the most dramatic hikes on Flores Island, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the island’s rugged cliffs. The Ponta Delgada to Fajã Grande Coastal Trail follows the island’s western coastline, starting in the northern village of Ponta Delgada and ending in Fajã Grande. The trail takes you along towering cliffs, past secluded beaches, and through lush coastal vegetation. The views are spectacular, with the waves crashing against the cliffs far below and the endless horizon stretching out before you. This hike is perfect for those seeking adventure and stunning coastal scenery.
Trail Details:
- Length: 12 kilometers
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours
- Trail Type: Point to Point
- Ratings:
- Difficulty Rating: ★★★☆☆ (Moderate)
- Scenic Rating: ★★★★★ (Dramatic)
Starting Point: Ponta Delgada
How to Get There:
- By Car: From Santa Cruz das Flores, take the EN1-2A road to Ponta Delgada.
- By Public Transport: Limited bus services are available; driving is recommended.
Trail Highlights: Towering cliffs, secluded beaches, and panoramic ocean views.
Insider Tip: Start early to complete the hike before sunset.
5. Morro Alto to Pico da Sé Trail
For those seeking a more challenging hike, the Morro Alto to Pico da Sé Trail offers a rewarding adventure with stunning views of Flores Island from its highest points. The trail begins at Morro Alto, the island’s highest peak at 914 meters, and follows the ridge towards Pico da Sé. Along the way, you’ll traverse a landscape of rolling hills, deep valleys, and lush vegetation, with frequent opportunities to take in panoramic views of the island and the surrounding ocean. The trail is demanding but incredibly scenic, making it a must-do for experienced hikers looking to explore Flores' wild beauty.
Trail Details:
- Length: 8 kilometers
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours
- Trail Type: Point to Point
- Ratings:
- Difficulty Rating: ★★★★☆ (Challenging)
- Scenic Rating: ★★★★★ (Stunning)
Starting Point: Morro Alto
How to Get There:
- By Car: From Santa Cruz das Flores, take the EN1-2A road towards Morro Alto.
- By Public Transport: Limited public transport is available; driving is recommended.
Trail Highlights: Panoramic views from the highest points on the island and the lush, rolling landscapes.
Insider Tip: Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water, as the trail can be steep and demanding.
6. Lajedo to Fajãzinha Trail
The Lajedo to Fajãzinha Trail is a charming hike that takes you through some of the most picturesque villages on Flores Island. Starting in the small village of Lajedo, the trail winds through green pastures, stone walls, and traditional houses before reaching Fajãzinha, a quaint village known for its beautiful waterfalls. The trail is relatively easy, making it suitable for all hikers, and offers plenty of opportunities to admire the island’s rural beauty. The highlight of the hike is the view of the multiple waterfalls cascading down the cliffs near Fajãzinha, creating a magical scene.
Trail Details:
- Length: 7 kilometers
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours
- Trail Type: Point to Point
- Ratings:
- Difficulty Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (Easy to Moderate)
- Scenic Rating: ★★★★☆ (Charming)
Starting Point: Lajedo
How to Get There:
- By Car: From Santa Cruz das Flores, take the EN1-2A road towards Lajedo.
- By Public Transport: Limited bus services are available; driving is recommended.
Trail Highlights: Picturesque villages, green pastures, and the stunning waterfalls at Fajãzinha.
Insider Tip: Visit Fajãzinha in the spring to see the waterfalls at their most impressive.
7. Caldeira Funda and Caldeira Rasa Trail
The Caldeira Funda and Caldeira Rasa Trail is a fascinating hike that explores two of Flores Island’s most beautiful volcanic calderas. This moderate trail starts at the viewpoint overlooking Caldeira Funda, a deep crater filled with a serene lake, and then leads you to Caldeira Rasa, another stunning crater with a tranquil lake. The trail offers a unique opportunity to experience the island’s volcanic landscapes up close, with lush vegetation surrounding the calderas and breathtaking views from the crater rims. This hike is perfect for those interested in geology and the natural beauty of Flores Island.
Trail Details:
- Length: 5 kilometers
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours
- Trail Type: Loop
- Ratings:
- Difficulty Rating: ★★★☆☆ (Moderate)
- Scenic Rating: ★★★★☆ (Spectacular)
Starting Point: Caldeira Funda viewpoint
How to Get There:
- By Car: From Santa Cruz das Flores, take the EN1-2A road towards the calderas.
- By Public Transport: Limited public transport is available; driving is recommended.
Trail Highlights: The tranquil crater lakes and the lush, volcanic landscapes.
Insider Tip: Bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the caldera rims.
8. Pico dos Sete Pés Trail
The Pico dos Sete Pés Trail offers a moderate hike to one of Flores Island’s lesser-known peaks, providing stunning views of the island’s interior and coastline. The trail starts near the village of Ponta Ruiva and gradually ascends through pastures and forested areas before reaching the summit of Pico dos Sete Pés. From the top, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the rugged coastline and the distant island of Corvo. This hike is perfect for those looking to explore a quieter part of Flores Island while enjoying beautiful scenery and a rewarding climb.
Trail Details:
- Length: 6 kilometers
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours
- Trail Type: Out and Back
- Ratings:
- Difficulty Rating: ★★★☆☆ (Moderate)
- Scenic Rating: ★★★★☆ (Panoramic)
Starting Point: Near Ponta Ruiva
How to Get There:
- By Car: From Santa Cruz das Flores, take the EN1-2A road towards Ponta Ruiva.
- By Public Transport: Limited public transport is available; driving is recommended.
Trail Highlights: Panoramic views from Pico dos Sete Pés and the peaceful, rural landscapes.
Insider Tip: Pack a snack to enjoy at the summit while taking in the views.
9. Fajãzinha to Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro Trail
This short but stunning hike takes you from the village of Fajãzinha to the breathtaking Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro, one of the most beautiful spots on Flores Island. The trail is relatively easy, making it accessible for most hikers, and offers a tranquil walk through lush, green valleys. The highlight is the Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro, where multiple waterfalls cascade down a steep cliff into a serene pool surrounded by dense vegetation. This magical spot is often described as a hidden gem, offering a peaceful and picturesque setting that feels like a scene from a fantasy novel.
Trail Details:
- Length: 4 kilometers
- Difficulty: Easy
- Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours
- Trail Type: Out and Back
- Ratings:
- Difficulty Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (Easy)
- Scenic Rating: ★★★★★ (Breathtaking)
Starting Point: Fajãzinha
How to Get There:
- By Car: From Santa Cruz das Flores, take the EN1-2A road towards Fajãzinha.
- By Public Transport: Limited bus services are available; driving is recommended.
Trail Highlights: The stunning Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro and the lush green valley.
Insider Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
10. Santa Cruz das Flores to Monte das Cruzes Trail
The Santa Cruz das Flores to Monte das Cruzes Trail is a relatively easy hike that offers stunning views over the town of Santa Cruz das Flores and the surrounding coastline. The trail starts in the town center and ascends gently through pastures and wooded areas to the viewpoint at Monte das Cruzes. From the top, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the town, the airport, and the northern coastline of Flores Island. This hike is perfect for those staying in Santa Cruz who want to enjoy a short, scenic walk with beautiful views.
Trail Details:
- Length: 5 kilometers
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours
- Trail Type: Out and Back
- Ratings:
- Difficulty Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (Easy to Moderate)
- Scenic Rating: ★★★★☆ (Beautiful)
Starting Point: Santa Cruz das Flores town center
How to Get There:
- By Car: Santa Cruz das Flores is easily accessible by car.
- By Public Transport: Regular bus services operate within Santa Cruz das Flores.
Trail Highlights: Panoramic views of Santa Cruz das Flores and the northern coastline.
Insider Tip: Bring a camera to capture the views from Monte das Cruzes.
Flores Island is a hidden gem in the Azores, offering some of the most captivating hiking experiences in the archipelago. From dramatic cliffs to lush valleys and serene crater lakes, each trail promises an adventure filled with natural beauty and tranquility. Discover why Flores Island is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
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