Caldeira hiking trail
This circular path, located in the heart of the island, is inserted in the Natural Reserve of Caldeira of Faial and in a piece of protected landscape of the Central Area. With a diameter of around 2 km, it was produced during the previous 400 thousand years by a series of eruptions interspersed with periods of quiet. This trek climbs between 840 and 1040 meters and is best done on days with excellent weather and visibility. The trail markers alternate between white, red, and yellow between the Grand and Small Route intersections, and yellow and red from Small Route. The crossings are well marked on the ground with signaling arrows.
Begin the route at the Caldeira viewpoint, traverse the short tunnel that leads to the crater, and enjoy the view of its interior, which is rich in vegetation typical of the laurel forest. Back on the road, climb the stairs and turn right into a gravel lane that leads to the Chapel of So Joo. Along the walk, you may see native flora such as Azores Juniper, Azores Heather, Azores Blueberry, Azores Euphorbia, and Azores Angelica, among others.
Enjoy the views of the North and West coasts, as well as the interior of Caldeira, as you walk around it. You will pass a link to the West side of the island through the route PR 06 FAI - Rota dos Dez Vulces before the track starts rising up towards Cabeço Gordo, the highest point of the trail at 1043 meters. The route descends past the dishes till it reaches the first viewpoint. Because to its sharped unevenness, this section demands considerable caution.
Location: Faial, Azores, Portugal
