Capitão Lake

Hike through the vineyards of the north coast between Santana and Lajido (UNESCO-listed) The coastal section allows you to walk across the lava flows and their iconic landscape, as well as through the beautiful hamlets of Arcos and Lajido. The route also offers stunning views of the two neighbouring islands: Calneta to the north-east and Horta to the east, as well as a passage through a volcanic arch. The inland section takes you through the vineyards and up a little to enjoy the many views of the neighbouring islands and the Montanha do Pico. A circular route that largely follows the route of the PR®10 and PR®01 – straightforward paths – but avoids sections of the main road (ER) in favour of much less busy tracks. Red/Yellow markings. The route starts here at the junction between the ‘lava’ section and the ‘hills’ section. It is also possible to start from either of the two villages and follow the same route.

Starting from Casa Montanha do Pico, a short high-altitude walk through the pastures, between the peak and the vineyards. Following an easy path, you’ll walk through the upper pastures with an extraordinary view of Madalena, its surroundings and the island of Faial with its caldera.

This is the complete ascent of the Pico volcano from the car park at Casa de Montanha. A magnificent hike with breathtaking views, weather permitting. Points to note:- follow the tracks in the rocks carefully to find the most frequently used passages among the stones and do not necessarily try to connect each of the 51 wooden markers that mark the route.- be careful on the descent, which is more challenging than the ascent: there are rocks, lava flows and no real path.- the ascent of Piquinjo is quite impressive. The path is narrow and steep, requiring the use of your hands, but this is the price you pay to reach the highest point in Portugal at 2,351 metres

At the foot of Mount Pico and overlooking the strait, this hike allows you to discover the iconic vineyards south of Madalena. The impressive vineyards are cultivated in small plots, separated by lava walls, facing the island of Faial.

This route can be part of the Sete Fontes Forest Reserve. No problem finding a parking space. A magnificent park is well worth a stop on the way back. The walk follows a forest track – which, unfortunately, some people drive along – leading to the lighthouse. At the end, the path to the lighthouse leads nowhere, but just before it, a lookout point offers views of Pico and… the whales. The walk can be done in the morning, allowing you to take a dip in the natural pools by the sea in Velas.

A lovely, slightly steep walk with plenty of beautiful views. It’s well signposted and well maintained. You can pop into the Whale Museum before taking a quick dip in a lovely bay at the end of the walk.