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PR01COR

Cara do Índio

Corvo

Open

Acores9 currently marks this trail as open.

Status checked 25 July 2026

Type
Walking trail
Route
Point to point
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
10.3 km
Duration
3 h
Elevation
6–556 m

The trail

Cara do Índio crosses Corvo from the Caldeirão viewpoint to Vila do Corvo. It begins at the highest point of the road and heads south, providing a broad view of the island before leaving asphalt. Beside the Forestry House, the route enters a dirt lane, crosses Trevo stream and approaches reservoirs built to retain water for the population. The Baldio area combines communal use, pasture and dry-stone walls.

The path circles the Coroínha cone and Pingas cliff, with views toward Flores in clear weather. It continues descending through fields to the basalt formation weathered into the profile known as Cara do Índio. From here, a steeper path crosses heather and Azorean juniper, passes old shelters cut into rock and opens a viewpoint over the village.

After crossing the road, the route enters the historic centre of Vila do Corvo. Narrow streets and compact houses lead toward traditional windmills and Praia da Areia, where the crossing ends. Its medium grade combines a long descent, wet areas and rural ground. In about ten kilometres, the trail links volcanic interior, water management, farming landscape and coastal heritage on the smallest Azorean island.

Directions

Begin at the Caldeirão viewpoint and follow the road south. At the Forestry House, enter the dirt lane, cross Trevo stream and continue toward the water reservoirs. Follow the markings through Baldio and around the Coroínha cone. Proceed between walls and pasture to the Cara do Índio rock. Descend the path through native vegetation, passing rock-cut shelters and the viewpoint over the village. On reaching the road, cross carefully and follow the signs through historic Vila do Corvo, past the windmills and to the finish at Praia da Areia. This is a linear route, so arrange transport to the Caldeirão viewpoint before starting.

Safety

The trail is open. Walk in good visibility because fog and wind at Caldeirão can hide markings. Wear grippy boots on mud, stone and the steep descent. Do not disturb livestock, leave gates as found and keep away from reservoirs, cliffs and unstable shelters. Cross roads carefully. Carry water and waterproofs; at Praia da Areia, approach the sea only when wave and local conditions are safe.

Official coordinates

Start
39.707969, -31.098388
End
39.672316, -31.120904
Elevation profile6–556 m
0 km10.3 km
GPSgpxGoogle Earthkmz
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