Situated in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores comprises nine picturesque Portuguese islands, celebrated for their steep cliffs and verdant landscapes. This tropical paradise remains a hidden gem, ideal for nature enthusiasts and hiking aficionados alike. Among these islands, São Jorge stands out with some of the finest hiking trails, making it a coveted destination for hikers. The island’s lush forests are interspersed with quaint towns offering breathtaking vistas of the sea, epitomizing paradise. For those eager to explore São Jorge on foot, here are the top hiking trails. It is important to note that all trails on the island range from moderate to difficult, as the terrain presents significant elevation changes. Therefore, equipping yourself with reliable hiking poles is advisable. For a comprehensive trail map, visit Azores trails.

Faja de Alem

This intriguing 4.7 km hike provides a glimpse into a traditional way of life, as the residents here rely on a cable system to transport supplies into a town inaccessible by vehicles. The hike involves a steep descent and is categorized as a circular trail. Although most hikers opt for the reverse route, I found our approach to be satisfying. It is vital to plan carefully, as adverse weather can render this trail hazardous. Starting at the Chapel of Santo António, follow the marks through the town of Ermida. The trail will diverge left near cattle fields before steeply descending to Fajã de Além. Be cautious on the switchbacks, as the path can be slick with mud and rock, leading down a cliff that drops into the ocean. If you are concerned about heights or prone to vertigo, consider opting for an alternate route to avoid the steep descent. Upon reaching Fajã de Além, stroll through the paths between the few homes and take a moment to enjoy a packed lunch before beginning your ascent back.

Here you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the ocean and Fajã, along with vistas of nearby towns, concluding at a farm road where you can observe the cable system used to transport goods to the village. From this point, follow the main road back to your vehicle.

Fajã dos Cubres/ Caldeira de Santo Cristo

Our yurt host described this hike as one of the most visually stunning on any of the Azorean islands. You may judge for yourself, but it indeed offers spectacular scenery. This trail, considered moderate in difficulty, is not circular. Rather, it presents several options for trekkers. Many choose to park at one end and have a taxi transport them to the other end, allowing them to complete the entire 10km linear route from Serra do Topo through Caldeira de Santo Cristo, concluding at Fajã dos Cubres.

If you prefer a more direct approach, you can park at Serra do Topo and hike into Caldeira de Santo Cristo, returning the same way. This route proved to be the highlight of our journey. The descent was relatively straightforward, featuring gentle slopes and a few switchbacks in steeper areas, making this segment accessible. Because of its appeal, this trail attracts a greater number of hikers than others. Upon reaching Fajã, you will encounter the lake that adjoins the ocean, renowned for its unique clams.

Be sure to make a stop at O Gumes, the first restaurant you encounter. It is recommended over the other, which has received negative reviews. This establishment is an ideal place to enjoy a beer and lunch after your hike. Although the clams are quite pricey, with a serving costing around €50, they are a unique delicacy worth trying. Alternatively, ordering sausage and a sandwich could be a more economical choice, accompanied by your beer.

Fajã dos Vimes – Lourais – Fajã de São João

This hike is an unforgettable yet challenging experience. I found it to be the most picturesque hike on the island. Since it is linear, you can either drop your vehicle at Fajã de São João and take a taxi to return from Fajã dos Vimes or prepare to hike back. Starting in Fajã dos Vimes, you can sample the local coffee grown on the island, providing a much-needed energy boost before your adventure. A guided tour of the coffee plantation is available, and although it’s conducted in Portuguese, it can still be navigated successfully, proving to be rewarding. This trail stretches 9.7 km one way, featuring significant elevation changes that will test your stamina. Throughout your journey, you will witness several waterfalls and traverse a suspension bridge, as you immerse yourself in a verdant forest reminiscent of a jungle, spectacular in its beauty.

This trail can also be completed as an out-and-back journey, which we chose to undertake. Be sure to carry an ample supply of water and snacks, as a small restaurant in Fajã de São João may be closed, depending on operational hours. During our visit, the establishment was closed due to late COVID-19 pandemic protocols. In most Azorean towns, including Fajã de São João, water can typically be found near the church, making it a reliable source. The weather can be quite hot on exposed sections of the trail, coupled with humidity in forested areas; therefore, adequate hydration is crucial.

Other Hikes in São Jorge

While several other trails exist, I believe the aforementioned options are the finest. Hikers may also journey from Fajã de São João to Serra do Topo, though it is primarily an uphill trek. For those interested in a multi-day hiking adventure, consider beginning at Fajã dos Vimes and extending your route to Fajã dos Cubres. There are additional trails branching from Fajã de São João for those wanting to continue exploring the area. With numerous options available, it’s feasible to park your vehicle and hire a taxi to your chosen starting point.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking breathtaking hikes and unique natural surroundings, São Jorge is the premier island to explore within the Azores. For additional insights to plan your visit, consider reviewing my Guide to São Jorge.