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PR02FLO

Lajedo - Fajã Grande

Flores

Open

Acores9 currently marks this trail as open.

Status checked 25 July 2026

Type
Walking trail
Route
Point to point
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
13.2 km
Duration
3 hr 30 min
Elevation
18–303 m

The trail

Lajedo–Fajã Grande crosses southwestern Flores through a sequence of villages, valleys and fajãs. It begins in Lajedo and heads north, descending and climbing volcanic slopes between Mosteiro, Fajãzinha and Fajã Grande. The first valleys bring views of rocky outcrops on the southeast coast and Cartário islet, while nearby cliffs support nesting seabirds.

Passing Mosteiro, the route opens perspectives toward Rocha dos Bordões, a formation of large basalt columns. From a viewpoint on higher ground, the landscape changes to the west coast: Fajãzinha and Fajã Grande lie beneath a fossil cliff about 300 metres high, cut by streams and waterfalls. The descent crosses Fajãzinha, follows Ribeira Grande and passes an old watermill before reaching the foot of the cliff.

A detour allows a visit to Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro; back on the main line, dirt tracks between pasture and walls lead to the Fajã Grande bathing area. The medium grade combines distance, repeated elevation changes and wet ground. In return, the route provides a continuous reading of western settlement, agriculture, geology and the water that shapes this part of Flores. Each village adds a distinct stage to the long coastal progression.

Directions

Begin in Lajedo beside Nossa Senhora dos Milagres church and climb past the Holy Spirit chapel to the signed start. Follow the road to the Cartário islet viewpoint, then continue north on the cobbled path. Pass the viewpoint toward Rocha dos Bordões, cross Mosteiro and proceed to the viewpoint above the west-coast settlements. Descend on dirt into Fajãzinha, cross the village and follow the path beside Ribeira Grande. At the road, turn left, pass the watermill and take the right-hand detour to Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro if conditions allow. Return, follow the base of the cliff and finish at the Fajã Grande bathing area. Arrange collection at the endpoint.

Safety

The trail is open. Streams, cobbles, dirt and descents become slippery after rain, so wear sturdy boots and do not cross water with a strong flow. This linear route has repeated elevation changes; carry water, food and protection from rain and wind. Keep away from cliffs and waterfalls, leave gates as found and respect pasture. At Fajã Grande, use the bathing area only in safe sea conditions.

Official coordinates

Start
39.392473, -31.247159
End
39.458044, -31.262854
Elevation profile18–303 m
0 km13.1 km
GPSgpxGoogle Earthkmz
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