Explore the Unique Fajãs of São Jorge Island
The Azores Islands are an enchanted archipelago filled with fantasy-like natural wonders the eyes can barely believe. From cascading waterfalls and bucolic meadows to seascapes and coastlines that will captivate and inspire you, as well as volcanic landscapes that will make you feel as if you are in another world entirely, the Azores simply cannot be defined by words alone: It is just that unique and special. Among the nine islands that form this idyllic Portuguese paradise – each boasting its unique charms – is São Jorge. Along with its neighboring Azores Islands of Pico and Faial, São Jorge makes up a trio known as the “Ilhas Triangulo” (the triangle islands). This is a rather fitting moniker, as the group of three islands forms a sort of triangle in the center of the archipelago.
São Jorge: How It - and Its Fajãs - First Began
The first thing that sets São Jorge apart from the rest of the Azores is its quite irregular shape: The island is long and skinny, measuring 55 km in length and only 7 km in width at its widest point. However, the real stunners that make São Jorge so special are its fajãs, which we will dedicate this article to today (because yes! They are that extraordinary!) São Jorge traces its history back to volcanic origins, which is where its famed fajãs came from. So, what exactly are fajãs? These natural phenomena can best be described as coastal plateaus, or small plains and outcroppings, that have been formed in various ways. Some fajãs have been created by remnants of landslides from long ago (ancient times, even!), while others – and most – were created by fiery lava flows now calmed and settled.
There is more than 40 official, recognized fajãs on the island of São Jorge alone, so it should come as absolutely no surprise that it has earned itself the nickname the “Island of Fajãs”. Another interesting fact about these fajãs: Where the landslides occurred in the northern part of the island – the area where the cliffsides tower high above the coast – the landslides' remnants resulted in the most gorgeous and Edenic natural swimming pools in the entire archipelago. In contrast, the southern part of the island is the area where the lava flows mainly formed the fajãs.
So, now that you know what fajãs are and how they came about, you are surely wondering what are some of São Jorge's most famous and popular fajãs, right?
- Fajã dos Cubres
Famed and beloved for the crystal-clear lagoon that glistens from its center, fajã̃ dos Cubres can be found on the northern coast of São Jorge Island within the lands belonging to the island parish of Ribeira Seca. The fajã's name is attributed to the plant, known as “cubres”, which spring up cheerful and tiny yellow flowers here, there, and everywhere in the area.
- Fajã da Caldeira Santo Cristo
Also located on the northern coast of the island, this popular fajã is particularly beloved by visitors and locals alike thanks to the delicious clams that are cultivated here, as well as for its lovely lagoon, Lagoa da Fajã de Santo Cristo. And did we mention that there are epic surfing conditions here for those avid wave riders? There are, indeed.
- Fajã de São João
You have likely heard the saying: Good things come in small packages. Well, that is exactly the case with this tiny but beautiful fajã inhabited by local residents living in typical homesteads made of São Jorge's signature black stone. For anyone seeking a serene moment of silence and tranquility amid stunning natural beauty, this fajã has your name written all over it.
- Fajã da Ribeira da Areia
Located in the northern portion of São Jorge within the parish of Norte Grande's municipality of Velas, this fajãss claim to fame is the picturesque arch, Arco da Fajã da Ribeira d’Areia, that is as pretty as a picture. It is so pretty that you will want to take many while here (pictures, that is!).
Also of note here is a chapel that was built in the 1940s, and when a tower was added on in the 1960s in honor of Senhora de Fátima (Our Lady of Fátima), the fajã then started to be called “the Fajã de Nossa Senhora de Fátima”. Every year now, on October 13, there is even a mass held here, followed by a procession, which is a treat to experience. One final thing to look forward to when visiting this fajã is a few lava formations, like strung lava, that can be found hiding out by the seaside.
- Fajã das Pontas
Another tiny fajã dotted by delightful and quaint country homes that can be accessed by a government hiking trail, this is a charming area to visit. As you look around, it will be clear to you that the area is filled with agriculture and production, including sprawling vineyards, cornfields, and other fresh rows upon rows of veggies.
- Fajã da Penedia
As this fajã is right beside fajã das Pontas, you could say that it is a cheery next door neighbor. The highlight of this fajã is most definitely the Chapel of Santa Filomena, which is worth a visit in itself.
- Fajã do Ouvidor
Local lore attributes the creation of this fajã to the overflowing lava from Pico Areeiro, a peak found just about 3 km away. The reason why visitors flock to this fajã in particular is for the spectacular vistas it affords, as well as the numerous natural pools awaiting your enjoyment that make you just want to wade in and let the sparkling fresh waters refresh your soul. The most beloved of these natural pools is Poça de Simão Dias, which is a must for your São Jorge itinerary.
Are you already in love with the Azores? Take a look at our stress-free packages that allow you to book your ultimate island adventure. All our packages are carefully curated by our team of local Azorean Experts so that you don’t need to worry about any details – just enjoy your trip!
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