This circular hike begins in the center of the municipality of Prainha on Largo Dr. José Machado Serpa. Here you will find the church of Nossa Senhora da Ajuda, the town hall, the headquarters of the Philharmonic Society, the bandstand and the Império do Espírito Santo.
The landscape is characterized by agricultural land, small farms, orchards, and vineyards with traditional "currais" (winegrowers' houses) built from black basalt. Also associated with viticulture are the so-called "adegas," which have now been converted into holiday homes or accommodations for rural visitors. TourThe area has been remodeled. Near the Canto da Areia bay, the path leads through the former Morro wine-growing region. Due to the abandonment of viticulture, it is now overgrown with coastal scrub consisting of heather (Erica azorica), pau branco (Picconia azorica), and beech (Morella faya). The area is of high natural value and is home to endemic flora and fauna. It is also an important nesting area for the Cory's shearwater (Calonectris borealis), a seabird protected by national and international law. It is designated as a protected area for habitat and species management within the framework of the island's Natural Park. Pico Classified. From the Ponta da Rocha viewpoint you have a beautiful view of the municipalities of Santo Amaro and Prainha.
This hiking trail offers not only beautiful scenery but also a rich cultural and architectural heritage. Here you can visit the ruins of one of the first settlements in the municipality and on the island: the Casa do Fio. This small building was once a gathering place for the inhabitants to process combed wool fibers into yarn. It also served as an old anchor point for the underwater telephone cable. Another highlight is the Ermida de São Pedro. A carved human face can be seen on the stone block that serves as the base for the cross. Along the way, you'll also see old stone bridges and the so-called "casas de recolha de pasto" (grass storehouses). These were used to store tools, agricultural products, or animal fodder. In the coastal section, you'll pass a tidal well and a windmill. There you will also find two excellent swimming spots: Canto da Areia, one of the island's few sandy beaches, and Poça Branca, a natural swimming pool with clear water.
The short route ends where it began. From there you can visit the neighboring island. São Jorge . see
Length: 8,8 km
Duration: 3 h
Difficulty level: easy
Source: visitazores
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