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PR01PIC

Caminhos de Santa Luzia

Pico

Open

Acores9 currently marks this trail as open.

Status checked 25 July 2026

Type
Walking trail
Route
Point to point
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
9.4 km
Duration
3 h
Elevation
17–251 m

The trail

Caminhos de Santa Luzia revives old links between the inland parish and Pico's north coast. The walk begins at Miragaia and descends through a protected vineyard landscape, where vines and fig trees occupy small plots divided by dry-stone walls. Lanes can be narrow and uneven, paved with natural rock and stone slabs; across the basalt remain the deep wheel ruts made by ox carts carrying wine and other produce.

Approaching Lajido, wine cellars and summer houses appear among the vineyard enclosures, together with geological features associated with the coastal lava field. The route then begins to regain height. It passes the ruins of Forno dos Frades, recognisable by its stone chimney, and reaches the regional road before arriving at Santa Luzia church. The broad old roads, high walls and dirt sections show how rural movement adapted to a rough volcanic surface.

From the church the itinerary adds a final loop on lanes bordered by vegetation, including Azorean whitewood and heather, before returning to the same religious centre. Although the overall walk is linear between Miragaia and Santa Luzia, this last section gives the finish a circular character. This is primarily a cultural route, with interest in the pattern of the vineyards and in the traces left by labour, transport and settlement.

Directions

On the regional road through Santa Luzia, locate the signed start at Miragaia, close to kilometre 10. Descend the narrow lane through the vineyards and follow the markings toward Lajido. From the coast, take the rising route past Forno dos Frades. About three kilometres after the climb begins, the trail meets the regional road; turn left and follow it for roughly 500 metres to Santa Luzia church. At the church, turn right as marked and complete the final loop on dirt lanes through vegetation, returning to the church to finish. The endpoint is separate from Miragaia, so arrange the return to your vehicle before starting.

Safety

The trail is open. Its lanes contain rough basalt, deep wheel ruts and stone that can become slippery after rain, so use grippy boots and place each step carefully. Carry waterproof clothing, water, a hat and sun protection because shade and exposure alternate quickly. Do not climb walls or pick fruit, and respect vineyards, cellars and farm plots. On road sections, use the verge and remain alert to traffic.

Official coordinates

Start
38.541582, -28.416421
End
38.546619, -28.400144
Elevation profile17–251 m
0 km10 km
GPSgpxGoogle Earthkmz
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