Walking Tours: Sanguinho (full day w/ picnic lunch)

About the Experience

The activity starts with a drive by the south coast of the island, being possible to see amazing views over the hills, green pastures and the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo. This volcanic formation is considered a natural reserve by the Government of the Azores. Then, we enter the collapsed volcano of Furnas, one of the places where we can contemplate the volcanic manifestations, such as the hot springs and the calderas. After passing by Furnas, we exit the volcanic crater and enter the Povoação, the first settlement of São Miguel. This trail begins in the parish of Faial da Terra, lasts approximately 3h30m, and extends for 4,5 km.

Initially, it rises to the place of Sanguinho, which got its name from the abundant endemic with the same name (Frangula azorica), by a steep path, with a breathtaking view over the parish and the ocean. Then, the trail continues through a forest of Japanese Cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) and some other species, such as the Ginger Lilys (Hedychium gardnerianum) and the Australian Cheesewood (Pittosporum undulatum) to the waterfall Salto do Prego, in one of the most beautiful places of the island. This is the perfect stopover for a picnic lunch and bathing in the crystal-clear waters of the waterfall.

The return is done along the path parallel to a stream that flows from the waterfall to the parish of Faial da Terra, through lush vegetation. The return to Ponta Delgada includes a comfort stop in the village of Povoação, being possible to try the local pastry, especially the ''Fofas" from Povoação. On the way back to Ponta Delgada, we cross to the north coast, being possible to see the only tea fields in Europe, the hills and the landline of the north coast, passing by Ribeira Grande, the second biggest city of the island and then crossing back to the south coast, through the narrower part of the island, with just 8 km. After a brief drive on the south coast, the activity ends with the arrival in Ponta Delgada.

Includes:

• Transport
• Picnic lunch
• Monitoring by a guide from Picos de Aventura
• Insurance (Personal Accident and Liability)

Not included: 

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Type of activity: Full day - 7 hours

Difficulty: Medium

Schedules and meeting points:

• 09:00 - Picos de Aventura office / Marina Atlântico Hotel (Ponta Delgada)
• 10:30 - Beginning of the trail in Faial da Terra
• 12:00 - Stop for picnic lunch
• 14:00 - End of the trail
• 16:00 – Arrival at Ponta Delgada and end of the activity

Minimum equipment necessary:

Footwear suitable for walking (Hiking boots), comfortable clothing, light jacket, extra t-shirt or sweatshirt, snack, water, swimsuit, towel, backpack, sunscreen, and hat.

Recommended equipment:

Walking poles, and gaiters (Winter).

Minimum age: 6 years old

(until 18 years must be accompanied by parents or guardians, or bring written permission).

Notes:

The performance of the activities is subject to weather conditions and logistics.

Meeting point:
Marina Pêro de Teive Avenida João Bosco Mota Amara
9500-771 - Ponta Delgada

Activity provider policies

Changes to the reservation

• The company has the right to modify or cancel your reservation, whenever there are adverse weather conditions.
• The company has the right to modify or cancel your reservation, whenever the minimum number of participants is not met.
• The company will have access to the contact information of the hotel where the client is accommodated, whenever this information is available (to facilitate the contact).
• The company may contact the client up to 1 day before in order to communicate any eventual alterations.
• In case it wasn't possible to contact the client, the alterations will be communicate when the client reaches the company's headquarters.