The hike to Salto do Cabrito is a relatively short circular hike starting and ending in Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande, a small recreational oasis with hot springs, a thermal bath and a restaurant.
We begin our hike on the paved road until the next intersection, where we turn left towards Lombadas/Monte Escuro until we reach another signpost. We follow this for about 100 meters, then shortly afterwards change paths again and make a short detour to the "Barragem da Fajã do Redondo" (Fajã do Redondo Dam). We return along the same path and follow a gravel road. We keep to the left, pass a locked gate on our left, and descend slightly, flanked by cedar trees, to the now-inactive Fajã do Redondo hydroelectric power station.
Here you cross the river and climb onto the iron, railing-equipped bridge over the water pipes. Follow this to the Salto do Cabrito hydroelectric power station. Walk around the building and you'll see the beautiful waterfall that gives the power station its name.
With your back to the waterfall, head uphill until you reach a paved road. Turn right, passing the "Lagoa do Fogo" bar and the thermal power plant. Pico Vermelho. Before a crossroads, you'll find a sandy path on the left; take this path. Since you'll be crossing two streams, you might want to briefly remove your shoes and socks…
At the next fork in the path, keep right first, then left, as signposted. A gravel path eventually leads back to the starting point in Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande.
Length: 8,5 km
Duration: 2,5 h
Difficulty level: medium
Source: visitazores
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